Tummy tuck drain leaking blood, is this normal? (Photo)

Question

I have my tummy tuck yesterday and the drain hole seems to be on my lower back. I went to sleep and when I woke up I notice there's blood leaking outside the drain. Is this normal? The picture shows the blood on my pajamas and bed.

Vishnu Rumalla, MD · Answer

Thanks for your inquiry, but without an exam it is hard to advise.  There could be a clog in your drain or a few other reasons, please call your surgeon they can walk you through the possibilities and good luck.

Curtis Wong, MD · Answer

and access wounds if you liposuction as well.  Your stain is from drainage and not frank bleeding and that is common after having body contouring procedures BUT it should stop within a couple of days.  If you're still have leakage around your drain, you must see your surgeon to get it checked out and resolved if possible.  Open drainage at the drain site would suggest things could also go in and result in infections so it should be dealt with.

Ven Erella, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. It is not unusual some times around the drain tube some blood stained fluid leak. It may be blockage of drain or other reasons. Please call your PS and talk to their office.

Neil T. Chen, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question. It is not unusual to have a little bleeding around the drain tube hole. Just make sure the suction of the bulb is functioning and there is not kinking or blockage of the tube.

Helena Guarda, MD · Answer

It is not uncommon to have some leaking from  drains site as well as incisions. This is usually minor and not continuous. It is important to check drain to make sure it is working and holding suction. Occasionally the drain may come out to far and not hold suction and yes the fluid will leak from around the drain site. If this is the case notify your PS.

Jeremy B. White, MD · Answer

It is not unusual for there to be some leaking around the drain after a tummy tuck. Yes, this can stain your clothing, so wear something comfortable and something that you are not afraid to get dirty in the early postoperative period. If you notice that there is a huge swelling in one particular area, especially if there are purple skin changes, that might be cause for concern. The other thing to note is if your drains are holding suction because, if they are not, then you may leak around them quite a bit more. Continue to followup with your plastic surgeon and express any concerns to their office.

Tummy tuck drain leaking blood, is this normal? (Photo)

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