Can a 1- 1 1/2 inch needle puncture your abdominal wall after a tummy tuck?

Thank you for your question as I occasionally hear this concern. It would be extremely unlikely to puncture into the abdomen itself with a needle of this length. You will a needle at least this long to get down to the seroma fluid. Occasionally you may feel a twinge of discomfort if the needle touches the rectus muscles but this is temporary and provides a barrier to actually betting into the abdomen itself. Good luck with your healing!

Thank you for your question.While it is possible to puncture through the skin, subcutaneous fat, muscle and peritoneum with a 1.5" needle, it is highly unlikely.  You usually need the length to get into the seroma which most commonly sits just on top of your rectus abdominus muscle.  When the needle touches your muscle, there is the sensation of pain.The seroma should slowly resolve with serial aspirations.  Get well soon.Dr. T

In a very thin person, a 1 1/2 inch needle could indeed penetrate the abdominal wall.  Even in larger patients with thicker abdominal walls the surgeon must always be aware of the position of his needle tip.  Drainage of seromas after abdominoplasty using 18 gauge needles is quite common and effective.  Express your concerns to your physician and he/she should be able to assuage any of your fears regarding the needle.