Is this normal to leave a JP drain in so long after a Tummy Tuck?

Once the JP drains produce less than 30 cc in a 24 hour time period, they are usually removed. When I used drains for tummy tucks in the past, they almost all were removed after only the first week. So, it does seem a bit unusual that yours have not yet been removed. Your concern about infection development is valid. I would contact your surgeon and try to have the drain removed soon. 

When there is less than 30cc/day coming out of drain for two days in a row, I will remove the drain.Definitely, give your plastic surgeon a call, and see if he/she agrees that it is time for you to be drain free!Best of luck to you!

Thanks for your question. It does seem on the long side to still have a drain base on your size. Given that liposuction accompanied the TT, there can be more serous fluid. Normally once it gets to around 30CC/day the body can absorb this amount. Sometimes the presence of the drain can contribute to the output. Your plastic surgeon will have a better idea since they did the surgery. Best of Luck!

There is no “normal” when it comes to removal of drains after tummy tuck surgery. In other words, different plastic surgeons have different criteria when it comes to timing for drain removal. Best to check with your own plastic surgeon who knows your situation best and is responsible for your care. Best wishes.

Each plastic surgeon has his methods,  I remove my drains  when they drain 50 cc or less in 24 hours, usually in 7 days, but every patient is different. call your plastic surgeon to expose your concern

Most surgeons remove a JP drain when the output is 30 cc per 24 hours or less.  Please followup with your plastic surgeon.  Best wishes.

Thank you for  your question. It is a little unusual for someone your size to need a drain for almost three weeks after a tummy tuck. I agree with your concern about infection with leaving in a drain that long. It sounds like, with the amount and color of what is coming out, that it could be removed. You may ask your surgeon about his/her criteria for removing the second drain. I have found that doing liposuction on the hips and flanks at the time of a tummy tuck tends to increase the amount that the drain puts out and may necessitate it being in a little longer. Be sure to contact your surgeon if you have an increase in your pain, more redness around the drain site or fevers and chills. Good luck.