drain question

I had my tummy tuck a week ago today, came home with 2 drains. I have my 1st follow up appt. Thursday. I'm still getting blood red drainage, was just wondering how long that typically lasts. I know everyone is different so maybe theres no right answer, but I was hoping to get at least 1 drain out, but if its still this bloody it could mess up my chances. Any info would be appreciated. Thanks in advance!

When I had my LBL I had 4 drains in for a few weeks. They did drain red for a while. Having the drains removed was more about volume of drainage. Mine had to be less then 10 CCs in 24 hours before he'd remove them, I think thats low compared to others experiences. Hope that helps and hope you get them out soon, I know how annoying they are. All the best.

Thanks so much, and yes they are VERY annoying. They're  what stands between me and a good nights sleep right now! All the best to you too!

My panni was a week ago this past monday and I came home with 2 drains..they ahve both been red, red drainage the right one wa always draining about 20...the left more like 30-40.  My 1 week f/u this past monday he took the right one out...DID NOT even fell it..and he is having me come in friday to take the other one out.  At this point it is still red, but only about 5...the worst thing is it is pulling and "leaking" around the tube....

Thank you so much for your reply. We sound alot alike, only it's my right side that does more draining. I usually empty them a few times a day sometimes 3 on the right side. Still getting 20-30 each time, even up to 40 at times, but depends how long I let it go. If someone had told me a year ago I'd be carrying little bulbs of bloody whatever coming out of my body, I'd of thought they were nuts! The things a body can adapt too! YUCK! Anyway, hope you have a speedy healing. Good luck to you!

Mine never did drain clear/yellow - stayed bloody the whole time.  I had 3 when I came home, he took 2 out the next week but the other stayed in for awhile.  After 2 more weeks I pulled it myself (with his permission) and it was down to less than 10cc's a day - but still red.

Thanks Jody! Maybe theres still hope to get at least 1 out tomorrow, maybe both, who knows! These drains are a pain in the ***!  The next best thing for me after the drains come out will be to get a nice long bath! Good luck to you Jody!

Hi!
I'm going to try and put a positive spin on the drains.......
The drains are pulling fluid out of your body (tissue).....without the drains that fluid will build up and make you more swollen.  To me having the drains in is a good thing.  I had no swelling in my stomach after my TT, and very little after my LBL, and very little after my first brachio (had drains with them).
I've experienced my worst swelling after my recent inner thighplasty and this is the only procedure my surgeon did not put drains in.  I don't think it's just a coincidence...I think there is a direct correlation.  I've even told my surgeon I would have rather had the drains in for 10 days (even 14) than to have all this swelling last so long.  I always say better to get the fluid out than leave it in.. 

Just my 2 cents but I'm hoping it will help you look at it in a different light. 

Best wishes!!

Thanks Moosie! I realize the drains are there for a good reason, and I know they are doing their job, doesn't make them any less a pain in the butt though. I would definitely take the drains over the swelling anytime!

I had my LBL 11/07 and came home with 4 drains.  Had all 4 of them for 3 weeks.  My PS told me he could pull them, but then I'd have to come in if I developed a seroma (which I did anyway).  Stuck me with a HUGE NEEDLE to pull the excess fluid out.  I watched it, but almost passed out!  I know the drains are a pain, but be patient.  They are definitely worth it.  Mys suggestions is to surround yourself in a cocoon of pillows when you go to bed at night.