Are Drain-Free Tummy Tucks A Safe Approach To Body Contouring?

By Jerome Edelstein, MD

An abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck surgery in Toronto, is a cosmetic procedure which tightens abdominal muscles and removes excess skin and fat to achieve a more desirable body contour. This is a frequently requested procedure for both men and women because unfortunately, it can be difficult to shed excess weight in the abdomen through diet and exercise alone.Just as there are many different types of tummy tucks, including a full tummy tuck and a mini tummy tuck, there are also a variety of surgical techniques used, including the use of drains and drain-free tummy tucks; each type and technique has its own advantages and disadvantages. Although traditional tummy tucks involve the use of drains, drain-free tummy tucks are a safe alternative which have recently gained popularity in the medical aesthetic industry.

What Is A Drain-Free Tummy Tuck?

While a traditional tummy tuck involves inserting soft, drainage tubes under the skin to prevent a seroma (fluid between the tissue layers), a drain-free tummy tuck uses progressive tension sutures to hold the skin and fat close to the underlying muscle layer, preventing pooling of liposuction and inflammatory fluids, and assisting the body with natural absorption. Without these sutures ‘quilted’ in place, there is a separation between the skin and underlying muscles, referred to as “dead space,” where fluid can collect, deterring healing, increasing the likelihood of swelling, and leading to additional complications.Although both techniques are frequently used and deliver excellent results, many patients prefer the drain-free tummy tuck because it reduces their discomfort during recovery. Drains are often in place for one to two weeks, during which time the separated layers of skin, fat and muscle rejoin. Although drains serve an important purpose, they can be inconvenient for patients, who must empty them two to three times per day.

Is A Drain-Free Tummy Tuck Safe?

When you seek a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon in Toronto, a drainless tummy tuck is as safe as a tummy tuck which utilizes drainage tubes. As with any surgery, there are inherent risks and complications, including a small risk of bleeding, infection, or seromas. However, the progressive sutures which are used to hold the skin in place and offload tension, will minimize risks because they reduce the empty space where fluid may accumulate and consequently, the accumulation reported is typically nominal.In some cases, patients are ineligible for a completely drainless tummy tuck and a small drain may be required to safely achieve your desired outcome and minimize the risk of complications. For example, patients who undergo excessive liposuction or are very thin, may not be able to have the quilted sutures camouflage well under their skin, or may have fluid output after liposuction that requires drains.The best way to determine your best tummy tuck technique is to speak directly with a knowledgeable and experienced plastic surgeon. Please contact our clinic today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Jerome Edelstein or Dr. Kunaal Jindal, leading drainless tummy tuck surgeons in Toronto.