As thrilled as tummy tuck patients may be with their newly firmed-up midsection, most men and women who choose tummy tuck surgery are less excited about the post-surgical drains that the procedure requires.
Until recently, post-surgical drains were a necessary, if somewhat cumbersome, aspect of tummy tuck surgery, as they prevented the buildup of fluid (seroma). However, advances in surgical techniques mean that tummy tuck patients now have a choice between traditional abdominoplasty and drain-free abdominoplasty. Here are three of the top reasons to bypass the drains for your tummy tuck.
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They Can Get in the Way
Post-surgical drains are bulbs about the size of an egg that are attached to your tummy tuck incision. Drains can be pinned below the incision, near your groin, or above the incision, near your waist. When you bathe in the days following your tummy tuck, you’ll have to carefully navigate around your drains, as well as when you dress and undress, or simply move about the house.
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They’re High Maintenance
Drains require regular maintenance, a task that most tummy tuck patients would rather do without. While maintaining your post-surgical drains isn’t difficult, you will be required to regularly empty any collected fluid, as well as measure the output. When recovering from surgery, these small tasks can feel more bothersome than most patients would prefer.
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They’re Not Necessary with the Right Technique
One of the best reasons to avoid drains after your tummy tuck is that they’re not always necessary. The right tummy tuck technique can bypass the need for drains by finishing your tummy tuck with a layered stitching method that leaves no room for fluid to accumulate. The result is a more comfortable recovery with no post-surgical drains.
Dr. Francesco Campanile is a board-certified plastic surgeon who is also fellowship trained in hand and microsurgery. Dr. Campanile knows that making a lasting change to your appearance is a big decision. His calm, professional approach and deep caring for his patients set a tone that will help you feel confident and relaxed while reviewing your options and learning all about the procedures that can benefit you. Request a consultation today to meet with Dr. Campanile in person.
