Is it normal to have a tissue/blood clot in drain after tummy tuck? (Photo)

Question

I had surgery about 2 weeks ago In another country. I'm back home now and have noticed I have this type of clot in my tube that won't come out and drain. I clean out my drain frequently to try to flush it but nothing works. Is this something I should worry about? Will it come out on its own? Is there something I can do to take it out?

Afshin Parhiscar, MD · Answer

Dear vanessaIt is usual to have fibrinous material and clots in your drains and as long as you drain is working and fluid is coming out, you are doing well. You should communicate regularly with your surgeon so he can instruct you on how he wants you to manage the drains. Congratulations on having had your surgery!!!

William Andrade, MD · Answer

Hello, sometimes it is possible to move the clot into the drain bulb by "milking" the clot toward the bulb.  You could contact your PS to determine if they have other specific recommendations.  A clot in a drain is not necessarily a sign of a problem but your surgeon will also review your overall wound healing progress to ensure you are healing normally.

Mennen T. Gallas, MD · Answer

What you have noticed as blood and small clots in your drains is normal and is to be expected. However, if you continue to have concerns, I would email the photo to your surgeon oversees. Congratulations on your surgery and best of luck for a quick recovery.

Khashayar Mohebali, MD, FACS · Answer

It is normal and actually expected to see old blood and clots in your drains. Nothing to worry about.  That part of their role; to remove old blood and extra fluid. Good luck on the rest of your recovery.

Gordon Lewis, MD · Answer

The clot you are seeing in the tube is completely normal.  This is nothing to worry about at all.  If you were to see something in that looks like pus, that is something that can be worrisome.

Is it normal to have a tissue/blood clot in drain after tummy tuck? (Photo)

Answers (5)