Where my drain tube is inserted from tummy tuck, I have a lot of pain. Why?

The drain sites from a tummy tuck are the most difficult problem for the patients with respect to discomfort.  If you tape the drains down to the skin they will move less at the drain exit sites, causing you less pain.

Pain at the drain site may be due to the weight of the drain pulling on the skin.  You might try moving the drain bulb.  You should ask your surgeon what he suggests in terms of topical medications to help.  Many of us do not use drains after tummy tuck to help patients avoid this problem.  The progressive tension method to avoid drains is a good alternative for many patients.

Persistent pain at the drain site needs to be addressed by your plastic surgeon. It may be that the suture typically used to secure the drain is being pulled and can be relieved with some surgical tape. There may be other reasons but your plastic surgeon or one of his/her associates should be able to see you promptly.Best,Scott A. Brenman, M.D., F.A.C.S.Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery

You might ask your surgeon for some topical local anesthetic cream or tapes to get you through the next few days until the drains can come out. Best wishes.