I am 8 days post op tummy tuck with lipo to flanks. I have one JP drain which appears to be functioning properly. Since post op day 4-5 I have only been draining about 15cc a day. I saw my surgeon on day 6 and he discovered a clog which he corrected by milking the tubing. Since then it has drained about 30cc a day. I have continued to milk the tubing. I know at some point it will start to slow down but what is the average amount of draining you would expect to see 8-10 days post op tummy tuck?
October 20, 2016
Answer: Jackson Pratt Drains During abdominoplasty procedures, placement of one or more Jackson Pratt (JP) drains is quite common. Drains help to minimize post-operative swelling. In thin patients who don't require liposuction as part of their tummy tuck, drains may not be necessary. In contrast, more extensive procedures that do involve liposuction may require two or even three drains. The fluid collected in the drain is quite bloody to begin with, but over a period 3-7 days it usually transitions to a clear light yellow fluid. At the same time, the volume of fluid will gradually diminish. In my experience, this process is slower in patients with a relatively higher BMI, in those that have had a more extensive procedure and in those cases involving liposuction. In addition, being overly active during your recovery may contribute to higher fluid outputs. The 'average output' that I would see at 8-10 days would be quite low, perhaps 15-30cc, but keep in mind that there is a lot of variability. Your surgeon has unique knowledge about you and the procedure you've had and therefore he or she would be in the best position to comment on whether your recovery is progressing as expected.
Helpful 1 person found this helpful
October 20, 2016
Answer: Jackson Pratt Drains During abdominoplasty procedures, placement of one or more Jackson Pratt (JP) drains is quite common. Drains help to minimize post-operative swelling. In thin patients who don't require liposuction as part of their tummy tuck, drains may not be necessary. In contrast, more extensive procedures that do involve liposuction may require two or even three drains. The fluid collected in the drain is quite bloody to begin with, but over a period 3-7 days it usually transitions to a clear light yellow fluid. At the same time, the volume of fluid will gradually diminish. In my experience, this process is slower in patients with a relatively higher BMI, in those that have had a more extensive procedure and in those cases involving liposuction. In addition, being overly active during your recovery may contribute to higher fluid outputs. The 'average output' that I would see at 8-10 days would be quite low, perhaps 15-30cc, but keep in mind that there is a lot of variability. Your surgeon has unique knowledge about you and the procedure you've had and therefore he or she would be in the best position to comment on whether your recovery is progressing as expected.
Helpful 1 person found this helpful
