Removing Drainage Hoses After Tummy Tuck Painful?

Hi there-
The three variables to consider are the technique of the person removing the drain, the anxiety level and pain threshold of the patient (you), and the qualities of the drains (they are not all created equal).
It is important to be calm and at peace when the procedure is to be performed, as there is no question that anxious, stressed patients experience more pain with any procedure than calm, peaceful patients do. That's your part...
The person performing the procedure can also do a lot to make these little procedures less stressful and painful, by being a calming influence and being sensitive the patient's pain and anxiety (this is where the homework you did in selecting your surgeon in the first place will pay off, or make you wish you had gone somewhere else).
Finally, the drains themselves are important. Some drains are less painful to have in and remove than others (although they might be more expensive). In our practice, we use drains that are Teflon coated and a constant diameter, and almost no one even feels the point at which we remove them. I've even asked my patients to close their eyes and tell me when they think I'm removing the drain- and most people don't realize the drain is out until I ask them to open their eyes and I show it to them!
Don't have too much stress about this- even if you do feel something, it's usually a minor pinch that lasts but a second and will not by any means be a source of regret for you.

Thank you for your question.  Drains are placed during tummy tuck to help prevent seroma, or fluid collection, beneath the area that was operated upon.  They typically remain in place for 1-2 weeks.  Removal of drains is usually nearly painless.

Thank you for your question. Yes, removal of a drain can cause a stinging discomfort for several seconds after its removal

 

The use of local anesthesia may be an option to help alleviate any discomfort associated with drain removal.  Discuss this option with your surgeon.

I hope this helps.