What is a Drainless Tummy Tuck?

You’ve probably heard the term “drainless tummy tuck” used to describe tummy tuck techniques that rely on internal sutures to limit fluid buildup and reduce the need for drains. The requirement for drains has to do with how much skin is undermined, and if this tissue is sutured down on the inside.

Traditional tummy tucks do a lot of undermining and the addition of extra internal sutures can help reduce the need for drains. Without these sutures, traditional tummy tuck drains can be needed for up to 2 weeks or more.

With the Lockwood technique, there is not as much undermining, and even without extra internal sutures, drains only need to stay in for 5-7 days. This technique can also add the extra internal sutures to reduce the need for drains. The advantage of the Lockwood technique over the traditional tummy tuck technique is that blood supply is better preserved with the Lockwood. Better blood supply means better healing.

The Truth About Drainless Tummy Tucks

Many surgeons promote the drainless tummy tuck as a modern innovation, often highlighting it as a more convenient option. While the idea may sound appealing, it doesn’t tell the whole story. My approach is fundamentally different and puts more consideration on what technique results in better healing.

Rather than focusing solely on whether or not drains are used, it’s more important to consider how much undermining is done during surgery. Minimizing undermining from the start helps preserve blood supply and nerve sensation by reducing tissue disruption. This leads to better healing, improved sensation, and a more natural recovery process.

Traditional tummy tuck techniques involve a significant amount of undermining. In contrast, only the Lockwood technique used during tummy tuck surgery is designed to limit undermining in a way that helps protect both blood flow and nerve integrity.

What Makes My Tummy Tuck Technique Different?

Unlike some drainless techniques that rely on excessive internal sutures to prevent fluid buildup, I undermine less tissue in the first place. This means:

• Your blood supply stays intact, which helps with faster healing.
• Your nerve supply is preserved, reducing post-op numbness.
• There’s less open space for fluid to accumulate, naturally decreasing the amount of time drains are needed.

Do I Always Perform a Drainless Tummy Tuck?

I can perform tummy tucks with or without drains, depending on what’s best for your case. The decision isn’t based on a trend, it’s about what will give you the safest recovery and best long-term results. Even when I do use drains, they are typically only needed for 5-7 days. And even if I do use more internal suturing, I may still decide to put a drain in for a day or two.

Allowing all of the fluid to be drained out dramatically reduces the risk of seroma and hematoma complications. It is just an easy way to reduce these two common complications.

Key Benefits of My Approach

• More Comfortable Recovery – Less tissue disruption means less swelling and discomfort.
• Lower Risk of Complications – Better blood flow reduces the risk of healing issues.
• Faster Healing – The body recovers more naturally with intact blood and nerve supply.
• Natural Sensation – Preserving nerve function means less numbness after surgery.

Is This Tummy Tuck Approach Right for You?

If you’re considering a tummy tuck, it’s important to understand the technique being used. My approach ensures optimal healing, long-term results, and a recovery that respects your body’s natural healing process. Let’s discuss your options and find the best plan for your goals.

Let’s Talk About Your “Drainless” Tummy Tuck Options

A tummy tuck should be about more than just going drainless. My focus is on preserving your body’s natural function while delivering the sculpted results you want. If you’re ready to explore your options, I’d love to help you navigate your options.