I'm Curious Why Some PS Use Drains on Breast Reductions and Some Don't?

You will find that there is no specific reason why some plastic surgeons use drains for breast reduction procedures and some do not. Having a “personal preference” in our specialty is  quite common. What you will find, however is that every plastic surgeon will swear that his/her way is the best way.

 In any case, select your plastic surgeon carefully based on  consistent safety and quality of work;  whether or not drains are used will likely not matter.

 Best wishes.

Every surgeon is different when it comes to their thoughts about using drains or not using drains during breast surgery.  It depends on the procedure and a lot depends on the patient and how everything looks during surgery.  If you are making a lot of fluid during surgery, it may be necessary.  Drains are common for an Abdominoplasty and usually come out in a couple of weeks, but if there has been extreme weight loss, they may stay in a bit longer.  With that said, your Board Certified Plastic Surgeon will make the best decision for your specific procedure. Best of luck!

The use of drains should be individualized for each patient.  Drains are typically used to remove the fluid accumulation within the potential space created after the procedure, especially when tissue is removed or undermined.  They do not prevent hematomas (bleeding/blood clot formation), but may help identify them sooner.  Fluid accumulation within a potential space may cause the formation of a capsule and chronic fluid buildup in the area.  Stagnant fluid is also a good media for bacteria.  This being said, I typically do not place drain for breast reductions, as the above problems are very rare following this procedure.  For very large breast reductions, I may consider doing so, however.  For TT, there is a disruption of some lymphatic tissue, which may cause increased fluid accumulation and warrant drains.  Hope that these answers help!  Good luck!