Undergoing plastic surgery can be an exciting, life-changing experience. Whether your goal is to achieve a flat stomach, correct problem areas like love handles, restore a tighter, more youthful complexion or even increase your breast size, we pride ourselves on the care we offer before, during and after your procedure. Drain care in particular is indispensable to your healing process, allowing for easier recovery and quicker healing.
Let’s get into the specifics of post-surgery drain care:
Why do I need a drain after plastic surgery?
During your cosmetic procedure, several layers of tissue may be disrupted, which prompts your body to create fluid between the layers of tissue. This mixture of blood and lymph fluid is often referred to as serous fluid. Using drains post-surgery removes this fluid, preventing fluid pockets known as seromas while lowering your risk of infection and allowing tissue layers to re-adhere. Recovery is typically quicker and involves fewer complications, so you can enjoy your results sooner.
What is a post-surgery drain?
Typically, a drain is a small plastic tube placed in the treatment area to remove fluid. Once this drain is inserted into the body through a minor incision, the small bulb at the end collects excess fluid. This excess fluid is regularly measured and emptied.
Which procedures may require drains?
Procedures that may require post-surgery drains include:
- Breast implant exchange
- Breast reduction
- Tummy tuck
- Lower body lift
- Facelift
Drain care post-surgery
There are a few key steps to follow to ensure proper recovery. In addition to keeping the area clean and dry, be sure to empty your drains as needed and record the amount of fluid. One of our board-certified plastic surgeons, Dr. Deboni or Dr. Baum, will determine when your drains can be safely removed.
To learn more about plastic surgery at CNY Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery, call (315) 545-5452 or request a consultation online.
