Burning sensation from drainage pipes after abdominoplasty. PS said sensation is normal. thoughts?

Hello. Great question. Congratulations on your tummy tuck. Your surgeon is correct, it is normal for the drains to feel uncomfortable. Good luck with your recovery.

Congratulations on your tummy tuck! Yes a burning sensation is normal during these early phases of recovery. Burning sensation is a reflection of nerve pain. These nerves have been disrupted by the surgery and are "irritated". This sensation should improve as healing continues.

Many thanks for your query.

There are many small nerves cut during a tummy tuck. This leaves numbness in the lower abdominal skin. Drains left inside the wound can also rub on nerves causing pain. This could be felt in the upper thigh ( Lateral Cutaneous Nerve of Thigh ). After removal of the drain, this should settle quickly. Occasionally medication is needed to calm ‘nerve pain’. If it has not resolved by now, ask your surgeon about the medication available.
Best
Mark

Drainage may indeed cause discomfort and pain, but it is most likely temporary. Pain is usually due to severed nerves during surgery and should resolve as you heal through the coming months. Pain medication may be prescribed if the pain becomes intolerable and restricts your daily activities. 

Patients will experience various levels of discomfort whilst drains are still in position. When they are removed they will be pulled along the exit wound which can be uncomfortable for some, but of course it is temporary. The drains are there to drain excess blood so are necessary in a big operation where there is a chance of leakage from a  large raw area. This settles in a few days usually.If you have any concerns return to your PS for advice and guidance.