Breast reduction surgery can significantly improve a person’s quality of life. Following this procedure, many patients have small tubes, known as surgical drains, placed temporarily in the surgical area. These drains are a standard part of post-operative care, assisting in healing by managing fluid accumulation. Understanding their purpose and care is important for recovery.
Why Drains Are Used
Surgical drains remove excess fluid that naturally accumulates after breast reduction surgery. When breast tissue is removed, a space is created where blood and lymphatic fluid can collect. This fluid collection, known as a seroma, can lead to increased swelling, discomfort, and potentially hinder healing or increase infection risk.
Drains work by creating gentle suction, drawing fluid out of the surgical site. A common type is the Jackson-Pratt drain, a flexible tube inserted into the surgical area and connected to a collection bulb that maintains a vacuum. By continuously removing this fluid, drains help remaining tissues adhere, promoting smoother healing.
How Long Drains Remain
The duration surgical drains remain in place after breast reduction varies. Some patients have them for 3 to 5 days, while others might keep them for up to 7 to 14 days. In some cases, especially after more extensive procedures, drains might stay for up to three weeks.
The exact timing of drain removal is determined by the surgeon based on several factors, primarily the amount of fluid being drained. Drains are generally removed when fluid output decreases to a low volume, often less than 20-30 milliliters (about 2 tablespoons) over a 24-hour period for two consecutive days. Individual healing rates, the extent of the surgery, and the surgeon’s specific protocol influence this decision. For instance, older patients or those with more breast tissue removed may have drains in longer.
Caring for Drains at Home
Proper care of surgical drains at home is important for preventing complications and ensuring effective drainage. Patients need to regularly empty collection bulbs, typically two to four times a day or when half full. Before and after handling the drain, thorough hand washing with soap and water is necessary to maintain hygiene and reduce infection risk.
To prevent tubing from clogging with clots, patients are often instructed to “milk” or “strip” the drain tubing. This involves gently squeezing and sliding fingers along the tube from the body towards the bulb, clearing blockages. Measuring and recording the volume and color of drained fluid each time is also a common instruction, as this data helps the surgical team monitor recovery progress. Securing the drain bulb to clothing with a safety pin, ensuring it hangs below the insertion site, helps prevent accidental pulling and promotes proper drainage.
After Drain Removal
Surgical drain removal is a relatively quick procedure performed in the surgeon’s office. It typically involves cutting a stitch holding the tube in place and gently pulling the tube out. While some patients may experience a pulling sensation or minor discomfort, significant pain is uncommon, and many do not require pain medication.
After drains are removed, patients might experience relief or a feeling of “emptiness” in the treated area. Minor soreness at drain sites is possible, and a small amount of leakage from the drain holes may occur for a day or two, managed with a small gauze dressing. Continued post-operative care includes wearing a supportive bra as instructed, monitoring incision sites for any signs of infection, and follow-up appointments with the surgeon to ensure proper healing and address concerns.