Drain output before removal?

Question

I recently had a tummy tuck, and I was wondering how much drainage do you want to see each 24 hours, per drain, before the drains should be removed?

Larry C. Leverett, MD, FACS · Answer

The acceptable amount of drainage after an abdominoplasty varies from surgeon to surgeon. In general, I like to see 25 ccs per drain per 24 hours, two consecutive days. BUT your surgeon may have different criteria for very valid reasons.  IN general, it's better to take them out a day or two too late than to take them out a day or two too early.

Lewis Albert Andres, MD · Answer

Hello!  Thank you for your question!  A typical amount is

Gerald Minniti, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello,You'll get as many answers to that question as you do the number of surgeons answering it, from 20 to 40 cc per day. However, the data suggests that output is less important than color of the fluid and total time that the drains have been in.  Yellow colored fluid indicates it can be removed, as opposed to pink or red.  After 2 weeks, regardless of volume or color drains can be removed.  This is because the outcome will not change if they are left in longer or removed. Specifically, your chance of seroma formation is very high at this point. Best of luck!

Leo Lapuerta, MD · Answer

Congratulations on your surgical procedure.  Please keep in mind that every surgeon has their own protocols to follow.  I usually recommend that the patient keep their tubes in until there is less than 25cc's in a 24 hour period.  Best of luck to you !

Frank Agullo, MD · Answer

I recommend waiting until the drain is less than 40 mL in 24 hours for removal. #StayBeautiful @RealDrWorldWide

Curtis Wong, MD · Answer

varies by surgeons but most accept less than 30 cc's a day for 2 consecutive days.  As for those who bash surgeons who use drains, drains are predictable, they do not increase pain in my patients, and the scars used are access sites for liposuction so there are no additional scars.  Drains, when removed in a timely manner, do not increase risks for infection.  Drainless procedures take more time for closing and increase costs and they can leave dimples in the skin.  So drains work fine through surgery can be done without them.  And drainless surgery does not guarantee you won't get a seroma.

Mark Eberbach, MD · Answer

I am beginning to wonder, why so many darned drains? There is clear evidence that they are NOT necessary in tummy tuck surgery. They increase pain, scarring and risk of infection.Anyway, now that they are there, clear fluid less than 1 cc per hour for 2 days was an old standard, but there is little to support a specific number. Surgeons use their own criteria based on trainig and experience. Ask your surgeon their preference.Good luck. And for future patients, ask "why do I need a drain?"

Steven Turkeltaub, MD · Answer

Each plastic surgeon has his/her own criteria for removing a drain after surgery. This most commonly is between 20 to 30cc per 24 hour period though some even will accept higher amounts. However, the most important and relevant number for you is what YOUR surgeon uses. So, go ask your surgeon what amount he/she uses.Steven Turkeltaub, MD

Ian MacArthur, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Thanks for your question. Every surgeon is different but I generally like to see an output of no more than 30 cc's over a 24 hours period before drain removal. My suggestion would be to check with you operating surgeon and follow their instructions. All the best.

Ven Erella, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Usually less than 30 cc a day, then I remove drain. It is up to your surgeon. Please talk to your PS

Drain output before removal?

Answers (12)

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