After breast surgery, surgical drains are often a temporary but necessary part of recovery. These drains assist the body in healing properly by managing fluids that naturally accumulate after an operation. This article clarifies the reasons behind their use following breast surgery.
The Role of Drains in Healing
After breast surgery, the body naturally produces fluids. Without intervention, these fluids can collect in the surgical site, forming a seroma (a collection of serous fluid) or a hematoma (a collection of blood). Accumulated fluids can lead to complications like increased discomfort, swelling, and pressure on the surgical area, which impedes healing and increases infection risk. Drains are placed to remove this excess fluid, helping the body heal more efficiently and potentially improving the cosmetic outcome. This evacuation reduces complications and promotes a smoother recovery.
Understanding Drain Function and Output
Surgical drains, such as a Jackson-Pratt (JP) drain, work by creating continuous suction. A flexible tube is placed within the surgical site, connecting to a compressible bulb. When compressed and sealed, the bulb creates negative pressure, drawing fluid into it. The collected fluid changes appearance as healing progresses: initially reddish (due to blood), then transitioning to pink, and eventually becoming a pale yellow or straw-colored serous fluid. Monitoring the fluid’s color and volume is an important part of post-operative care, as these indicators help healthcare providers assess healing.
Living with Surgical Drains
Managing surgical drains at home involves routine steps for proper function and hygiene. Empty the drain bulb every eight hours or when approximately half full. Wash hands thoroughly, unpin the drain from clothing, remove the plug, and squeeze the fluid into a measuring container. After emptying, compress the bulb firmly before replacing the plug to restore suction, and record the measured output. Maintain cleanliness around the drain site to prevent infection; gently wash the area with soap and water, then pat dry.
For comfort, secure the drain to clothing with a safety pin or use specialized garments with pockets to prevent pulling on the insertion site. Wearing loose-fitting clothing, such as button-up shirts, also makes drain management easier. Contact your healthcare provider for signs of infection (fever, worsening redness, foul-smelling drainage). Also report a sudden significant increase or decrease in output, accidental drain dislodgement, or new or increasing pain at the drain site.
Drain Removal and Beyond
Drain removal timing is typically determined by the amount of fluid draining from the surgical site. Drains are usually removed when the output consistently falls below a specific volume, often less than 25 to 30 milliliters (approximately 1 to 2 tablespoons) in a 24-hour period. This usually occurs within one to three weeks after surgery. The removal process is quick and performed in a healthcare provider’s office.
During removal, the stitch holding the drain is cut, and the tube is gently pulled out. While a pulling sensation may occur, the process is typically not painful and often does not require pain medication. After removal, a small amount of fluid may continue to leak from the site, which can be managed with a light gauze dressing for about 24 hours. The small opening usually closes and heals within a few days. Even after drain removal, continued monitoring of the surgical site is advisable for any signs of swelling or changes.