Why Are Drains Used in Breast Augmentation?

Hello!  Thank you for your question!  Use of drains is typically surgeon preference. The reason for its use would be to remove the fluid from the breast pocket in the initial postoperative period.  Stagnant fluid can certainly induce bacterial colonization, however, your body typically absorbs such fluid readily. Most surgeons after a primary breast augmentation, including myself, do not use drains.  But, again, it is surgeon preference. Discuss this with your surgeon prior to your procedure. Best wishes!  

Using drains is not common after breast augmentation, although in rare cases they may still be required. Drains reduce the risk of fluid buildup, however they are not preferred by surgeons because they generally increase the length of recovery and make the healing process more uncomfortable. The risk of infection also increases.

In first time breast augmentation, most plastic surgeons DO NOT use drains. I do not use them either. It is not necessary.