How long do drains stay in after having liposuction? How bad is the pain when removed?

I perform a lot of liposuction procedures and some very large cases including buttock, breast, and facial augmentation with fat transfer and have never used drains.  With local tumescent procedures and open entrance sites, drains are not needed.  There are no studies that show they help with healing or swelling, and they have the potential of being an axcess point for infection and in my opinion, are not needed.  I would avoid anyone who still uses these. If they do, they are likely very aggressive and do a lot of superficial liposuction that has the potential for bleeding and irregularities.  This is the same advice I would give my family members. Best, Dr. Emer.

Hi.  Most cases of liposuction don't require placement of surgical drains.  Speak to your surgeon and see if they are even required for your particular situation.

I dont use drains after liposuction and dont believe it is common practice at this time.. They are actually a negative with potential additional scars and drainage around them. With proper procedure and the newer compression garments I doubt many Board Certified Plastic Surgeons would use drains unless they are also doing an abdominoplasty or body lift