Quick Answer
After the procedure, the cavity continues to drain small amounts of fluid for several days, which is normal and expected. If we pack the wound, the packing is typically removed in 2 to 3 days at a follow-up visit at our Knightdale clinic. Most small to medium abscess wounds are fully healed within 1 to 2 weeks. Spreading redness, increasing pain, or new fever after drainage is not normal and should bring you back in immediately.
This question comes up frequently for patients researching incision & drainage of abscesses at Good Health NC in Knightdale, NC.