What is a Drainless Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck is a well-known procedure for achieving a flatter, more toned stomach. After childbirth, significant weight loss, or ageing, it can feel like no amount of fitness and exercise helps. This is where a tummy tuck may be a solution. Not all tummy tucks are the same, as there are different techniques. In this case, a drainless tummy tuck uses a specific suturing method to eliminate the need for post-surgery drains. Let’s explore further.  

How Does a Drainless Tummy Tuck Work?

The standard tummy tuck removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen. A drainless tummy tuck achieves the same results, but the big difference is that it removes the need for post-surgical drains.

The actual surgical technique is the same in the two procedures. It’s the wound closure that’s different, and it can have a massive impact on your post-surgery recovery. Your surgeon will use an advanced progression suturing technique to close the incision after the procedure. The treatment takes about three hours to perform. 

With a drainless tummy tuck, you essentially get liposuction and a traditional tummy tuck with a different suturing layering technique. This technique removes the need for drains. The procedure involves using liposuction to remove stubborn fat from the abdomen. Then, your surgeon makes an incision to remove excess skin and muscle tissue. They will tighten skin and muscle and create a more toned, contoured tummy. 

What are the Benefits of a Drainless Tummy Tuck?

Like a standard tummy tuck, a drainless tummy tuck addresses excess skin and fat at the same time. A tummy tuck can create a flat, smooth stomach, remove stretch marks, shrink the waistline, and restore the body after pregnancy and childbirth. 

A tummy tuck is often part of a mummy makeover alongside liposuction and breast enlargement. 

On top of these benefits, a drainless tummy tuck requires no drains after surgery. Drains can sometimes be fiddly, and by removing the need for drains, it results in a less complicated and quicker recovery time. Your healing should be more comfortable, and you will require less downtime compared to a standard tummy tuck. With no post-surgery drains, it decreases the risk of complications.  

You can see that the main benefits of a drainless tummy tuck shine through in the recovery period. In addition to the great results you can expect from a tummy tuck, taking the drains out of the recovery journey is often a massive bonus for patients. 

So, where does the fluid go in a drainless tummy tuck?

In a standard tummy tuck, the drains allow for excess fluid to leave the surgical site. With a drainless tummy tuck, the unique suturing technique doesn’t leave any room for fluid. By using multiple suture layers, it closes the space around the skin so that fluid can’t accumulate. As there’s no space for fluid to accumulate, you don’t need the drains to remove it. 

What are the Potential Risks and Complications of a Drainless Tummy Tuck?

Potential risks and complications of a drainless tummy tuck include:

  • Infection 
  • Swelling 
  • Blood clots
  • Anaesthesia risks 
  • Increased risk of seroma (build-up of fluid under the surface of the skin) 

How Long Does it Take to Recover from a Drainless Tummy Tuck? 

It takes between 2-4 weeks to recover from a drainless tummy tuck. In roughly 1 to 2 weeks, you can return to light activities. This is around the same time you can go back to work as long as your job isn’t too physical. 

Immediately after your surgery, you should expect to wear a compression garment. This will help with the swelling and speed up the recovery process. You should see results in 6 to 8 weeks. 

While the majority of your recovery is in the first couple of weeks, make sure to take it easy over the next several weeks. Over time, you will notice improvements in your abdomen and will start to see the final results. Continue to listen to your body, eat well, and get plenty of rest while you recover. 

All types of tummy tucks are considered permanent. But your new body will still respond to weight fluctuations. So, the best way to maintain your drainless tummy tuck results in the long run is to keep a healthy weight, exercise regularly, and follow a healthy diet. Often, a tummy tuck or any type of cosmetic surgery is not just a commitment to a procedure but to making healthy lifestyle choices. 

Who is the Ideal Candidate for a Drainless Tummy Tuck? 

The ideal candidate has a stable weight and is on the leaner side, say within 15 pounds of their ideal weight. You should be in good physical health. A drainless tummy tuck is not a great option for those with a high BMI, so a healthy and stable weight is essential. 

The drainless tummy tuck can drastically reduce post-operation pain and speed up the recovery process. You can see why it’s becoming such a popular procedure, especially for people who don’t want to take several weeks off work to recover. 

Taking the decision to undergo any type of cosmetic procedure is big. By understanding your options, you can make an informed decision based on the facts. If recovery time is a key factor in your decision, a drainless tummy tuck may be suitable for you. 

Drainless Tummy Tuck Before and After at the Harley Clinic  

When choosing your Harley Street plastic surgeon, evaluate the before and after photos. Ideally, you want to see someone with a relatable shape and size, so you can get an idea of what to expect. Look for a nicely shaped abdomen that doesn’t look too taught; it should look natural. Another tip for evaluating tummy tuck results is to look at the belly button. A natural-looking belly button is a sign of a great plastic surgeon. 

Full drainless tummy tuck recovery and liposuction at The Harley Clinic
vaser lipo and drainless tummy tuck at The Harley Clinic, London

If you’re considering a drainless tummy tuck or have any questions, please contact the team at the Harley Clinic. Book a consultation today and see how a drainless tummy tuck could benefit you. 

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