A tummy tuck is one of the most effective and powerful procedures to reshape the abdomen, making it possible to restore a slimmer, sleeker physique after pregnancy, aging, and weight loss. However, abdominoplasty is also a highly complex procedure associated with certain complications during the healing process. At our Philadelphia practice, Dr. Bottger and our team have been using a technique known as a “drainless tummy tuck” for the past six years, and have found the procedure to revolutionize patient recovery during abdominoplasty.
What are Drains Used for During Tummy Tuck Surgery?
Most patients who have had a formal tummy tuck or abdominoplasty will describe drains as the most painful and cumbersome aspect of their recovery. To reduce the possibility of postoperative fluid collections or seromas after a tummy tuck, large silastic tubes are typically placed underneath the skin flap, sewn into the skin, and attached to the reservoirs patients usually have to drag around for, potentially, up to two weeks. Beyond the pain at drain sites and the generalized interference with mobility, infection may occur in the skin or under the skin flap.
How Can a Drain-Free Tummy Tuck Lead to a Smoother Recovery?
The issues above are avoided by using a drainless technique, which utilizes progressive tension sutures. Multiple sutures are placed to affix the skin and subcutaneous abdominal flap to the underlying deep muscle layer. As a result, this effectively eliminates any space where fluid could collect post-operatively, thereby eliminating the need for drains. A drain-free approach can avoid many of the inconveniences associated with tummy tuck drains, including:
- Less pain and discomfort while healing
- Lower risk of infection due to post-operative drains
- Less high maintenance and not as intrusive to your daily life
- Greater mobility during the recovery period
Beyond the aforementioned benefits, the tension offloading on the final suture line may result in improved healing and more favorable scarring overall.
Questions? Dr. Bottger, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Philadelphia, prioritizes using the most advanced cosmetic surgery techniques to make your experience as stress-free, comfortable, and seamless as possible. Contact Dr. Bottger for more information or to book a consultation with Dr. Bottger.