11 days PO TT: Is this a worm/snake/major organ: none of the above and just regular drainage tissue? (photos)

Question

I felt particularly bloated today, so I've milked the drain tube a couple more times than normal. I just collected a 20cc drain total with striping the tube. Pulled my compression garment back up and saw I swear to God, a worm with about 50cc in the bulb. I used q-tips and stretched it out on the vanity, it's ridiculously long (seems to me anyway). I know it's not a worm (but if it is that'd be a handy piece of information to have)... but seriously, what the heck is this?!

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and photographs.  The string you have removed from your tube is a congealed portion of blood and serum that took the shape off your drain tube.  As you milked the drain this coagulated string of tissue was pushed into the bulb.  This is not uncommon and need not concern you.  Hope this helps.

Peter Kreymerman, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your inquiry. What you describe is common. It is typically the result of some coagulated blood and serum. It is part of the natural healing process for a tummy tuck. Sometimes this gets caught in the tubing and presents as this "worm".  At this point it's important to monitor for any persistent bleeding, evidence of infection, and to make sure the drains continue to work. If you have further concerns, please discuss with your surgeon. The attached tummy tuck article reference can also provide more insight.

William J. Koenig, MD (retired) · Answer

After the first couple of days  of drainage from a tummy tuck, most of what comes out of your drains is plasma which is basically blood without the red cells.  This yellowish fluid has lots of proteins in it which are responsible for clotting of blood.  When these proteins sit in the drain tube they can coagulate (stick together) into long  strands like your pictures show and consist mainly of the protein fibrin.  This is normal but you do have an impressive picture!

11 days PO TT: Is this a worm/snake/major organ: none of the above and just regular drainage tissue? (photos)

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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11 days PO TT: Is this a worm/snake/major organ: none of the above and just regular drainage tissue? (photos)

Answers (3)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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