Drain questions

I'm 3 days post-op from TT and flank lipo.  I have two drains, and have a couple of questions.

1.  I empty the bulbs twice a day and only get about 1/2 oz each time from each side.  Is that normal?
2.  Is it normal to see fluid just sitting in the tubes?  It looks like it's coagulating. Am I supposed to do something besides empty the bulbs and then squeeze them shut again?

I ended up not getting the pain pump, but kinda wish I had.  I am definitely having to take my Vicodin every 3-4 hours.  The nurse says she would guess they removed about 5 lbs of skin/fat.  We'll see once all the swelling goes away!  I'm so excited to see the new me!

Congrats on your surgery!!! You are going to love your results!!!

I never did drain much, I was sorta strange that way and maybe you won't either! That means the drains will come out sooner than later.

One thing for sure tho you probably want to be "stripping" your drains, ask your doc though first.  Most do want this done.

Basically you hold the drain with your left hand using finger and thumb finger near the insertion site to keep the drain tube steady and prevent it from pulling out while your right hand using an alcohol wipe pulls the drain tube (stretches it basically) and pulls the drainage down into the bulb.  This will make the tube appear flat.  It will provide more suction and you may feel a little discomfort.  It is very hard to describe.. I tried to look on youtube for an example but nothing came up. :(

Stay on top the pain meds, you are doing great and congrats on the skin/fat removal of 5 lbs! That is awesome!!!! Can't wait to see pics if you plan on posting some!!!

Thanks Melissa.  I feel better now.  I do have some pics posted already...if you want to see them, request to be added to my friends list.  I'll be adding more as I progress!

Thanks again!

Melissa,

How often do you do the "stripping" of the drains?  Each time you document your drainage and empty the bulb?

Tonja

My surgeon had me do it every 12 hours - sometimes I did it more if I felt it was necessary but I would try to stick to every 12 hours as it can be somewhat painful with the suction and make sure your particular surgeon wants you doing this.  I have heard of some surgeons not liking "stripping".

Mr Dr told me strip the drains each time I drain them.  I am only 5 days out and only one of the 2 drains is really draining now. 

My doc, nurse, and the paperwork they gave me doesn't say anything about stripping the tubes.  I have the nurse's cell phone...think I'll text her real quick.

Thanks ladies!

Glad u are asking about it.  Good deal, keep us posted.