How Long Can You Keep a Drain I After Breast Surgery?

Typically, drains are removed when they are putting out between 20 and 30 cc a day. 
Every plastic surgeon is different. I do not often use drains for my breast reductions.  Drains may need to stay in as long as the fluid is continuing to build up. 
As long as fluid is being produced in an excess of 20 cc a day, I would leave the drain in even if it takes several months.

Thank you,
J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS

In most cases I do not put drains after breast surgery.  However, if you do have a drain, generally it is removed a few days after surgery.  At 20 cc per day, it can likely be removed.  However, you should discuss this with your surgeon since we do not know all the details of your surgery.

 

Good Luck.

Your question is a good one! A notable variation between surgeons is use of drains: when they are used, how long they are left in, and what purpose is served. Still, (and despite their widespread use) there is not much evidence-based data on the management of closed-suction drains. Many surgeons use volume criteria, such as removal after a drain puts out less than a certain amount of fluid per 24 hours. Others will discontinue the drain at the same time post-op antibiotics are stopped (antibiotics are another topic that varies) while still others consistently take out the drain on a designated post-op day. One question you might want to pose to your surgeon is, "What is your criteria for drain placement and removal?" This way, you know what to expect; it's always good to be a part of the process.

 

Congratulations on your surgery!

 

Best,

Dr. Barbara Persons