Clogged drain from tummy tuck. How can I unclog it?

Question

I had a tummy tuck on Friday 4/3 and was left with one drain. Since then I have been consistently draining 150-200 daily. While I was at my follow up today, the nurse "milked" my drain and since then (7 hours ago) I have had no drainage. I think she clogged it. I have tried the same technique she showed me to no avail. How can I unclog it?

Jeanette Padgett, MD, FACS · Answer

You will not be able to unclog a drain that is totally clogged.  The "milking" helps to remove very small clots.  The amount of drainage you've had is unusual for a tummy tuck without liposuction and without use of tumescent fluid.  Call  your surgeon for an appointment to check your drain.

M. Dean Vistnes, MD · Answer

I would schedule another follow up with your surgeon. This will be best cared for in person. Best of luck, Dean Vistnes.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Impossible to explain over the internet! Call your chosen surgeon ASAP to be seen in person for the clogged drain issue.....

Heather J. Furnas, MD · Answer

You should see your surgeon as soon as possible. Drainage of 150 to 200 ml in a day is a lot, and your surgeon should personal see you. To see a video about drain care, click on the link below.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Contact your surgeon regarding your drain.  Is it still maintaining suction (remains in the collapsed position when squeezed)? Milking the tubing often clears it for a more accurate reading of the output and helps to move small clots into the collection bulb, but it is unusual that this would clog the drain.  More investigation is needed as to the cause that the output has ceased.

Robert E. Zaworski, MD (retired) · Answer

See your surgeon as soon as possible regarding your drains.  Follow the nurse's instructions regarding "milking" the drain.

Clogged drain from tummy tuck. How can I unclog it?

Answers (6)

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