Are there any disadvantages to the quilting method on a Tummy tuck if the surgeon still plans on placing a drain?

The Progressive Tension Suture method uses what are called quilting sutures and there are several advantages to it and no disadvantages. It helps reduce tension on the scar while keeping it low, so I think that means better scars. It also helps with shaping, for example a subtle midline groove above the belly button. I prefer to use drains with the PTS method but they usually come out within a few days.

I always use Progressive Tension Sutures
("quilting" sutures), and I do not use drains.Another alternative is a tissue glue FDA
approved for tummy tuck surgery that also eliminates the need for drains.In my experience, drains are not necessary
when either of those two methods is used.If your surgeon places drains as well as quilting sutures, there
probably isn't a downside (except that you still have to deal with
drains).Best wishes,Dr. Michelle Spring

There is probably no disadvantage.Kenneth Hughes, MDBeverly Hills, CA................................

Some plastic surgeons prefer drains, quilting sutures, or both. I don't think that there are any downsides to using both. 

Some plastic surgeons use drains, some use quilting stitches, and many of us use both to get the best result with the fewest potential complications. There are no disadvantages to the quilting method.Find a plastic surgeon that you are comfortable with and one that you
trust and listen to his or her advice. The surgeon should be certified by the
American Board of Plastic Surgery and ideally a member of the American Society
for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS). You should discuss your concerns with
that surgeon in person.

Robert Singer, MD FACS

La Jolla, California.

Thank you very much for your question, and it is one that is still hotly debated in the plastic surgery world.  More studies are being done to answer that exact question.Most surgeons do one or the other to reduce the risk of a seroma.  Some surgeons do both as a "belt and suspenders".  While there may not necessarily be an advantage to doing both, there really aren't any "disadvantages" besides some extra time under anesthesia (but this isn't much).Best of luck!

No, I do not think there are any disadvantages; in my practice, I utilize progressive tension relieving sutures as well as drains for most patients undergoing tummy tuck surgery. I hope this, and the attached link/video helps. Best wishes.

Dear Ms. Wesandaval,Thank you for your question.Most surgeons either drain or quilt. However I see no disadvantages to do both.I trust you have chosen a Plastic Surgeon who is a experienced and Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. In addition ideally he/she is a member of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (denoting by membership as having met additional criteria and a focus on Cosmetic Plastic Surgery).I wish you my best and success,R. A. Hardesty, MD, FACSDiplomate and Certified by the Am. Bd. of Plastic Surgerywwwimagineplasticsurgery.com4646 Brockton AveRiverside, Ca 92506(951) 686-7600

The only disadvantage of both quilting sutures and a drain is the extra time expenditure and the questionable benefit of both.  I have found the use of drains alone to have virtually eliminated any seromas in my practice over many years.  Others probably have had different experience but I find quilting sutures with a drain to be unnecessary IMHO.Best advice is to allow your surgeon to use the technique that has worked best for him/her.  Best wishes.
Jon A Perlman MD FACS
Certified, Am Board of Plastic Surgery
Extreme Makeover Surgeon ABC TV
Beverly Hills, Ca