Hi Everyone,

This is my first post... I am new to all things VSG. I am still in the "trying to find financing and scheduling my initial visit with Doc" stage. I am gathering as much info as I can so I will be as prepared as I can be. I have read a few posts and some "sleevers" are mentioning their Drain. This is the first time I have heard of that. What in the world is that? Any comments or information is greatly appreciated!

Thank you,

Madeline

Sometimes when the surgery's done, everything's stapled shut and sewn up, Fluid will still seep into the abdominal cavity. It's not thick red blood exactly, more like the thin watery stuff that separates from it. If necessary, to drain it off instead of leaving it sitting in there, the surgeon will leave a little hose in, which comes out through a small opening on your belly and attaches to a bulb syringe. You squeeze the bulb and then cap it, which creates a vacuum to pull that fluid out, and once in awhile you have to empty the bulb.

Sounds gross, but it's not that bad, and not everyone goes home with a drain. Mine only collected a little bit of fluid for 3-4 days (maybe a tablespoon a day?). When it came out after a week, I didn't feel a thing and didn't even know he'd removed it until I saw it in his hand.

It doesn't hurt, but it can tug uncomfortably where it comes through the skin. I couldn't sleep in bed until it was out. It's more annoying than anything, having this hose and bulb hanging off the front of you LOL...and bulky and very noticeable under your clothes, but truly no big deal.

I had abdominal surgery as well VSG revision and my drain was only in for 2 days. It's no big deal really as Stacy said. It's not pleasant when they take it out but it doesn't really hurt. Don't worry about it.

Question regarding this post. I am three days post op and have already contacted my surgeon twice so I am hoping to get some input rather than bother him again. My drain was filled with reddish, pinkish clearish liquid. It is now a yellow almost urine color, any thoughts? My paperwork says to call if drain fliud changes color, but he already saw me once in his office and again I've called twice. I am usually not so worried, but I keep thinking every little thing is a leak. Any input would be much appreciated. Thanks