Why I Don’t Use Drains for Tummy Tucks
By Dr. Victoria Aimé, Scottsdale, AZ Plastic Surgeon
If you’ve been researching tummy tucks, you’ve probably heard about surgical drains—small tubes placed under the skin to collect fluid after surgery. While they were once considered standard, I no longer use drains in my tummy tuck procedures. Instead, I use a more advanced and comfortable technique: quilting sutures (also called progressive tension sutures).
What Are Quilting Sutures?
During a tummy tuck, we make an incision from hip to hip and lift the skin and fat up to the ribcage to tighten the abdominal muscles and remove excess skin. Traditionally, surgeons would place drains to collect any fluid that might build up in the space between the skin and muscle—known as “dead space.”
With quilting sutures, we eliminate that space by sewing the skin and fat layer down to the underlying muscle layer as we close. This not only reduces the potential for fluid buildup (like seromas or hematomas), but also provides better internal support as the tissues heal .
Why I Choose Drainless Tummy Tucks
- Lower Risk of Complications: Studies have shown that quilting sutures are more effective than drains at preventing seromas and fluid collections.
- More Comfortable Recovery: Drains are sutured to the skin and can be bulky, irritating, and prone to dislodgement. Patients must measure and empty them daily, which can be stressful. By avoiding drains, recovery is smoother and less cumbersome.
- Innovative and Patient-Centered: One of the things I love most about my practice is applying modern surgical techniques that enhance results while making the patient experience easier. Drainless tummy tucks are a great example of that commitment.
Want to Learn More?
If you’re considering a tummy tuck and want a comfortable, modern approach with beautiful results, I’d love to meet you. You can book a consultation online at Metropolitan Plastic Surgery in Scottsdale, AZ.
Have questions? Let us know—we’re happy to help.
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