2 weeks post op with some leaking from my tummy tuck incision. Is this normal?

Question

I had a TT with muscle repair 2 weeks ago. On day 10 PO I had my 2 drains removed. The last couple of days I have noticed small stains in my undies, I assume it's my incision leaking. Is this normal or something I should be concerned about? Also I have noticed a "wave" when I push on my stomach, I assume I'm developing seroma. Is this something that has to be drained or is it something my doctor can monitor to see if it's gets worse? I have another f/u appt Tuesday.

Sam Jejurikar, MD · Answer

Sounds as though you have a seroma, which is relatively common after a tummy tuck. Seromas do not resolve spontaneously and need to be drained to improve. It's also generally a good idea to utilize compression (binder, garment) after drainage to limit recurrence.Hope this helps!

Adrian Richards, MBBS, MSc · Answer

Thank you very much for your interesting message.  Very mild discharge is relatively normal at
this stage but a wave when you push your stomach would indicate that you are
developing a seroma.  Generally we would
recommend that the seroma is drained if it is large enough to cause a wave.We would normally perform this with ultrasound guidance helping us guide
the end of the needle into the seroma so it is fully resolved.I
think it would be worth discussing this with your plastic surgeon who will be
able to perform the aspiration themselves or arrange for it to be performed.

Deborah Ekstrom, MD · Answer

You may be getting a seroma, fluid accumulation or a "puddle" inside where the drains were.  You will possibly need to have it drained off a few times to help it go away.This is a complication that occasionally occurs after tummy tuck and is usually a minor irritation more than a problem.  It will likely resolve with some return visits and care.Good luck and best wishes for a lovely result.

Emily J. Kirby, MD · Answer

Drainage from an incision or drain site this far after surgery is not considered normal.  The "wave" that you describe certainly sounds like a seroma.  Make sure your surgeon knows about it as soon as possible.  Although it is a normal physiologic process for your body to fill a pocket with fluid, a seroma can be very uncomfortable for you and can get infected.  Your surgeon will advise you regarding the next steps, depending on your clinical exam. Best of luck to you.

2 weeks post op with some leaking from my tummy tuck incision. Is this normal?

Answers (4)

Answer: Drainage After Tummy Tuck

Answer: Drainage After Tummy Tuck

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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2 weeks post op with some leaking from my tummy tuck incision. Is this normal?

Answers (4)

Answer: Drainage After Tummy Tuck

Answer: Drainage After Tummy Tuck

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.