Drains from TT bulb not staying compressed? I accidentally stepped on it and pulled a bit out 1/2 to an inch at most. (Photo)

Question

I am 8 days post TT op. I have my drain in. Today I accidentally stepped on it and pulled a bit out 1/2 to an inch at most. A fee hours later the bulb will not stay compressed. I squeeze it to let the air out close it and it just sucks up whatever little fluid there is immediately and blows up to normal size. It will not stay compressed like it had been, vacuuming slowly.

Allen Gabriel, MD, FACS · Answer

It sounds as you have pulled your drain out and the holes in
the tubing are now exposed.This area
helps create the vacuum while under your skin.This is not an emergency but you should contact your plastic surgeon for
possible removal of the tube.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

I personally don't use drains with an abdominoplasty. However if the drain is dislodged this should be reported to your own surgeon.

Moises Salama, MD · Answer

The first thing you should do is to contact your surgeon. It is possible that by pulling on the drain, one of the small holes on the drain were exposed to the outside. This would cause the drain to lose suction. The skin opening for the drain may have been enlarged from the pulling. Placing antibiotic ointment on the drain incision may help. Please consult with your doctor.

Luis E. Redondo, MD · Answer

Your drain lost the vacuum, and it wont work as needed any more. 8 days post surgery you probably don't need it any more, visit your Plastic Surgeon ASAP so he/she decided what to do.

Frederic H. Corbin, MD (license restricted) · Answer

You have either exposed too much of the drain at the incision or made a hole in the tube leading to the bulb either way you should be seen by your surgeon to correct the problemDr Corbin

Drains from TT bulb not staying compressed? I accidentally stepped on it and pulled a bit out 1/2 to an inch at most. (Photo)

Answers (7)

Answer: Vacuum not working

Answer: Vacuum not working

Answer: Not holding compression

Answer: Not holding compression

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Drains from TT bulb not staying compressed? I accidentally stepped on it and pulled a bit out 1/2 to an inch at most. (Photo)

Answers (7)

Answer: Vacuum not working

Answer: Vacuum not working

Answer: Not holding compression

Answer: Not holding compression

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.