Milk my drain and it burns

Question

I am day 2 post op from a tummy tuck and whenever I go to milk my right drain it burns. When I release from stripping it, the suction action pulls where the drain goes in and it's like a burning or razor feeling

Kaveh Alizadeh, MD, MSc, FACS · Answer

I’m sorry to hear you’re having some discomfort with your drain care. Sometimes, the drain is held in place with a stitch and if the stich is too tight or the skin around it is macerated, that can result in this burning sensation with any drain manipulation.  Overall, some stinging or burning in and around the drain site is not uncommon, but it’s never a bad idea to follow-up with your surgeon to rule out any infection or complication. Additionally, ensure you’re using the proper technique when stripping your drains. Hope that helps!

Brian Vassar Heil, MD · Answer

Dear cmartin03166, congratulations on your recent tummy tuck! Some pain at the drain sites is completely normal. However, if it truly does feel like a “burning” or “razor” feeling, I urge you to see your plastic surgeon as soon as possible. This severe pain can be caused by a number of factors, such as your body reacting poorly to the drains or an infection at the drain site. What products have you applied to your abdomen/the incision area? It is also possible that lotions and ointments that you applied may be irritating the incision site. Either way, please see your plastic surgeon as soon as possible so that s/he can diagnosis the issue and ensure that you are healing properly and as painlessly as possible.

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Hello, It is not uncommon to feel a stinging sensation at the insertion site for a drain, however it will be a good idea to have your Plastic Surgeon assess the area and make sure there is no increased redness, swelling, etc. which could indicate a problem. You may be milking the drain more than you need to. If the drain is blocked two days post op that will be another good reason to go see your Plastic Surgeon.All the best

Francisco Canales, MD · Answer

Although it sounds normal I would check with your Surgeon. In our practice we don't use drains which allows more freedom postop. Best wishes .

Milk my drain and it burns

Answers (4)

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