I am planning a Tummy Tuck soon & the Dr I have chosen said he prefers to do internal sutures as opposed to drains. I have heard that might be more dangerous. What is the reality?
A: Tummy Tuck drains vs internal sutures
Most plastic surgeons place drains in the abdomen during a tummy tuck procedure. These drains help remove excess fluid/blood from the surgery and also help the soft tissue and skin to adhere to the abdominal wall (muscle). Internal sutures, also called progressive tension sutures or quilting sutures, can be used to help attach the soft tissue to the abdominal wall, thus minimizing any space and potential for fluid accumulation. Often times a combination of internal sutures and drains are used to further reduce the chances of any fluid build-up (called seroma).
There is no right or wrong answer as to which technique is performed.
Please discuss with your plastic surgeon his/her preference for drains and/or internal sutures during a tummy tuck procedure.
Best wishes,
Dr. Bruno
