When considering surgery, it’s always important to understand the recovery process. Very often, drainage tubes are part of the equation, especially during a tummy tuck. A tummy tuck, also known as an abdominoplasty, is a cosmetic surgical procedure aimed at improving the appearance of the abdomen. During the procedure, excess skin and fat are removed, and the underlying abdominal muscles are tightened to create a smoother, firmer abdominal profile.
People often opt for a tummy tuck after significant weight loss, pregnancy, or due to aging-related changes that result in loose or sagging skin. The surgery typically involves an incision along the lower abdomen, through which the excess tissue is removed and the muscles are sutured together. Recovery involves a period of rest and gradual return to normal activities.
What Happens During a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck procedure is done under general anesthesia in a hospital or an outpatient center. The first step is an incision across the abdomen. Then, excess fat and skin are removed, the belly button is repositioned and loose abdominal muscles are tightened. One of the final and most important steps is to insert drainage tubes. The incision around the drainage tubes will be closed up with sutures.
The body has a lot of healing to do after a tummy tuck, which typically requires several weeks before returning to work or normal activities. As the body heals, it will produce fluid to fill the space left by the fat and skin that was removed. If that fluid doesn’t drain it can cause health issues and alter the results of the tummy tuck, which is why drains are inserted. Drain tubes actually speed up the healing process.
The number of drains that are needed vary from patient to patient. Some patients only need one, the majority will get two tubes. The fluid that gets drained will usually be reddish colored and will collect in plastic bulbs that need to be emptied a few times per day. Most drains will remain in place for up to 7-10 days.
Our office will review all of the details regarding the procedure and the recovery. We encourage all patients to book a consultation months before you hope to have the procedure to ask questions and review options. Make an appointment today by callingt (973) 775-9248.
