3 days post op Tummy Tuck, I have a drainage leak. Should I be concerned?

Question

3 days after TT the left tube sewed into my skin is leaking is this something i should be concerned about

Joshua Cooper, MD, FACS · Answer

This would definitely be a good question to discuss with your plastic surgeon if it persists.Sometimes if fluid drains around the drainage tube, it is because the tube is clogged.  By milking or "stripping" the drain from the exit site down to the bulb you may be able to unclog the drain, and it may function properly.You also want to make sure that the bulb is holding suction.Again, if you still have issues, please contact your plastic surgeon's office!

Emmanuel Mallol Cotes, MD · Answer

Thank you very much for sharing your concerns with us.At this point, 3 days postop, is normal to have swelling. To reduce it, I recommend you perform daily lymphatic drainage massage therapy over the abdomen and wear a postoperative girdle from thigh to the breasts.Kind regards,Dr. Emma Mallol Cotes.-

Ira H. Rex III, MD · Answer

This situation is not uncommon. It is more messy than otherwise problematic. You should have your plastic surgeon check it to see if there is anything that can be done to stop the drainage, or even simply pull out the tube.

Ross Blagg, MD · Answer

Hi, thanks for your question. This is a fairly common occurrence and shouldn't pose a problem. Keep some dry gauze around the drain to collect any drainage. You don't want to allow the drainage to sit against the skin for long periods of time as this can cause some maceration to the skin. Also, be sure to let your surgeon know so that he/she can check the site to ensure the drain is in a good position. Best of luck in healing.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Leakage of fluid from around a drain insertion site is not uncommon, but may indicate a problem with your drain's function.  Your surgeon and/or his office likely instructed you on drain care, and the need to "strip" the drain to ensure appropriate drainage.  If after trying this maneuver you continue to have leaking, I would contact your surgeon's office and voice your concern.

Joubin Gabbay, MD · Answer

Some drainage around the tube from your tummy tuck/abdominoplasty is not unusual. That said, if you have any concerns or continue to have any changes, it's central to see the advice of your plastic surgeon.I wish you the best.Dr. Gabbay.

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

I appreciate your question.

Since there has been a change in your post op course, please contact your surgeon so he/she can examine you.

The best way to assess and give
true advice would be an in-person exam.

Please see a board-certified
plastic surgeon that specializes in aesthetic and restorative plastic surgery.

best of luck!

Dr Schwartz

Robert L. Kraft, MD, FACS · Answer

This is not uncommon. However, the most important person to contact is your plastic surgeon who can decide whether to pull the drain, adjust its placement or recommend other treatment.

Melissa Johnson, MD · Answer

Sometimes the tube can get clogged and the fluid takes the path of least resistance around the drain.  Stripping or milking the drain may help.  Your plastic surgeon can show you how.

Ven Erella, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. It can happen sometimes, make sure tube is not kinked. Put some antibiotic cream and dressing around it. Please also let your PS know about it.

3 days post op Tummy Tuck, I have a drainage leak. Should I be concerned?

Answers (14)

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