Need help understanding why my drains were not removed.

Question

I had a lipoma removal and a week after I developed a seroma and had to receive a drain. It is now a week after receiving the JP drain and for the past 3 days I've been consistently under 3cc's every 12 hours on both sides. The nurse on duty said I was clear to have them removed and I was good to go. The my doctor said to leave them in, no explanation at all or answers. The nurse herself was even confused by the decision when I've been consistently under 30cc's since day two post op and lower.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

You may have a risk of seroma reaccumulation based on activity level. I would defer to your surgeon's judgement.Best, Dr. Karamanoukian#Realself100 Surgeon

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your excellent question.  Unfortunately this is a question best asked of your surgeon as they must have a good reason for leaving the drain in.  I would speak to them directly as 4-6cc's/24 hours is sufficiently low to have them pulled.  Hope this helps.

Hratch Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

The surgeon is the best to decide when to remove the drain(s). having said that, 2 cc is probably enough where if they were removed, the surrounding tissue should absorb it. I assume the surgeon does not want to put you through another procedure where premature removal wuld necessitate replacement of drains !H Karamanoukian MD FCASDouble Board Certified surgeon

Need help understanding why my drains were not removed.

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Need help understanding why my drains were not removed.

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Everything you need to know about Lipoma Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.