Is It Normal to Have Dark Red Drain Fluid After 1 Week Post Op?

Question

I am fit, 5'2" 122lbs. Had a TT 1 week ago and for the last 3 days my output went from 25 to 15 and then 10 cc of drain fluid daily. I am concerned that the color of the fluid has gone from light red to wine color. There is no bad odor, my pain is at about 2 on a scale of 10, I've been off pain meds for the past 4 days. Should I be concerned? I thought the fluid was supposed to get lighter in color.

Ronald Schuster, MD · Answer

A darker red color is normal. It's just older blood. After a few days it also may become almost clear. This is called serous drainage and is normal.

Ali Sajjadian, MD, FACS · Answer

Dear BeautifulMe,

	 

	The Dark red drain fluid after your surgery is most likely old blood.

	The important point you have mentioned in your description is that the drained volume decreased and so did your pain (you are off of the pain killers).

	 

	Please follow up with your surgeon for more specific instruction. It is important to have re-evaluation done by him.

	 

	 

	Best of luck to you.

	Dr. Sajjadian

Jason J. Hall, MD, FACS · Answer

It is likely that this is just some older blood that was under your skin that is draining out of the drains.  If so, it's not uncommon and doesn't usually indicate a problem.

	The fact that your pain is minimal and you're not needing pain medication is a good sign that everything is progressing well.

	Hope this helps,

	Dr. Hall

Moneer Jaibaji, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. From the information you provided it seems to me your recovering very well from your tummy tuck surgery. Dark red drainage may be due to cloth coming out through the drain. Check with your plastic surgeon for more direct answer.

Robert E. Zaworski, MD (retired) · Answer

What you are seeing is most likely old blood.  This is normal.  After this clears up, the fluid will be lighter.  See your surgeon for an in person evaluation.

Is It Normal to Have Dark Red Drain Fluid After 1 Week Post Op?

Answers (5)