Are tummy tuck drains removed once fluid is below 30cc in EACH of the 2 trains, or 30cc combined?

Each surgeon determines their own guidelines for removing drains and usually based on each patient. Generally I like to see 25/30 cc's or less for 24 hours before removal. You need to see your surgeon to determine if you have a seroma. Good luck.

Thank you for your excellent question. Generally speaking yes this is the level when most surgeons will remove the drain. However, even if you leave the drain in for prolonged periods some patients still develop a seroma. I would see you PS who will examine you and decide if the seroma needs draining (they can get absorbed if left alone). Best of luck. 

Thank you for sharing your excellent question.  Each surgeon has their own protocol for drain removal based on the specific procedures performed but for most your drains were low enough to be removed. Unless you feel a distinct fluid collection most likely you are experiencing tissue swelling which should improve as your results mature.  Talk to your surgeon as they know the full details. 

The decision to remove the drains would be made by your surgeon. However, a general number that I use to determine when appropriate to remove is

MomS88 I appreciate your concern, however removal of drains after Tummytuck is usually a decision made by the plastic surgeon on a case-by-case basis. Many of us do abide by the general rule of 30-50 mL or less drainage from both drains over 12 to 24 hours as an indication to remove the drains.   Sometimes a seroma forms even if drains are pulled at the appropriate time.  It sounds like you need to be evaluated by your plastic surgeon to be certain that a seroma has not formed.  Good luck.

Dear MomS88,I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment. Only after thorough examination you can get proper recommendations and advice.Daniel Barrett, MD

Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Every surgeon has their own rules for this question, but most of us would consider each drain independently.  In my practice, IF I use a drain at all, I like to see less than 30 cc's of output per day.Good Luck!

In my Columbia, MD practice I remove drains when each drain has remained at or below roughly 25–30 cc over 24 hours. If one drain continues to put out more, I may remove the low-output drain first and leave the other a few extra days. This careful monitoring helps reduce fluid collections (seromas) and speeds recovery. See our tummy tuck page for detailed recovery steps.

Each surgeon has her/his own protocol when drains should be removed. The drains are evaluated individually and there could be occasions where one drain is removed and the other remains a little longer. Swelling is common and expected even after drain removal. If you feel your swelling is excessive or that you may have developed a seroma you need to be assessed by your surgeon.

My general rule of thumb is that each drain should be 30cc or less over the previous 24 hours before being removed. However, exceptions are made depending on the clinical situation. Each plastic surgeon has his/her criteria and personal experience. You may very well have a seroma, which can easily be aspirated during on office visit. It would be best if you were evaluated by your plastic surgeon. Furthermore, it sounds as if your garment’s fit needs to be checked also. Pressure garments can be very helpful, but they also can be harmful if they do not fit just right. Best of luck.