The Use of Surgical Drains after Tummy Tuck Surgery

Between weight fluctuations, aging and loss of skin elasticity, and genetics, it is not surprising that many men and women find that, over time, the skin on their tummy begins to look loose and stretched. In most cases, there is also stubborn fat that seems impossible to eliminate. A tummy tuck can remove excess skin and tissue and repair abdominal muscles to create a tighter and more toned stomach. With such great results, it is not surprising that this is one of the cosmetic procedures performed most frequently by plastic surgeon Vishnu Rumalla. A tummy tuck procedure is one cosmetic surgery that utilizes surgical drains to ensure a smooth recovery for our patients. Many of our Fort Worth patients have concerns regarding tummy tuck drains and their care. Here patients can get a brief overview of how to care for tummy tuck drains and their importance in the recovery process.

Are Tummy Tuck Drains Easy to Care For?

Many patients feel apprehension regarding tummy tuck drains. They often wonder if they are difficult to care for and if they will be able to use them properly. Most are pleasantly surprised to learn that it is much simpler to care for tummy tuck drains than they had anticipated. Tummy tuck drains are a system of tubes and collection bulbs. The tubes are placed by Dr. Rumalla at the end of tummy tuck surgery, so patients really only need to worry about the collection bulbs.

Periodically throughout the day, these bulbs should be emptied of the fluids that they have collected. Doing so is quite simple. Before emptying the bulbs, patients should gently squeeze the tube leading down to the bulb in a downward motion (to drain any discharge that is in the tube). The bulb is then removed, the discharge is measured and recorded (there are often marks on the side of the bulb), the fluid is disposed of, and the bulb is reattached, gently squeezing the bulb to create negative pressure that will help with the drainage. This should be done between two and three times a day, depending on doctor instructions and the amount of fluid collected. While these tasks are not difficult, we understand that they can be a nuisance. Fortunately, tummy tuck drains are only temporary and are typically removed within ten days after surgery.

What Is the Purpose of Tummy Tuck Drains?

Following tummy tuck surgery, it is natural for fluids to build up and collect behind the surgical site, so tummy tuck drains are important for aiding in the recovery from this procedure. By encouraging the draining of post-surgical fluid, tummy tuck drains can help control swelling.  By pulling away this excess fluid from the recovery site, tummy tuck drains also help to prevent infection. In all, tummy tuck drains help to ensure a speedy and uncomplicated surgical recovery.

Schedule an Appointment

A tummy tuck procedure can create a tight, toned stomach when diet and exercise have failed to produce adequate results. If you have any questions about tummy tuck surgery or the recovery procedure, we invite you to schedule an appointment with Dr. Vishnu Rumalla at your earliest convenience. We have the answers and information you need to determine if tummy tuck surgery is right for you.