How long does one have drainage tubes for after Breast Reduction?

Question

William Andrade, MD · Answer

There will be a range of opinions on this issue.  I don't generally use drains for breast reductions but when I feel they are necessary (perhaps for a very large reduction), I remove them when the output is under 40cc every 24 hours.  I always remove them after 14 days regardless of the drainage, although it is very uncommon to need them for more than 3-5 days.

John Michael Thomassen, MD · Answer

Recent published studies have not supported the use of drains after breast reduction; however, they are still widely used.  If placed at all, you would need them for no longer then one week.

Jennifer Greer, MD · Answer

In 2012 the American Society of Plastic Surgery published guidlines for breast reduction surgery, and stated that placement of drains after surgery was not beneficial (see the attached link). So you will likely see more and more surgeons moving away from routinely placing drains. I rarely place drains after breast reduction, but when I do, they stay in place for about 5-7 days. Best of luck to you!

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

You will find that some plastic surgeons do, some don't, use drains with breast reduction surgery. In my practice, when I do use drains, I remove them when the output is low (this is usually possible 3 to 5 days after surgery). I hope this, and the attached link, helps.

Lee E. Corbett, MD · Answer

Like many of the other responders, I do not use drains for breast reductions. However, when I use drains on other procedures they are removed based on drain output, not on time.

How long does one have drainage tubes for after Breast Reduction?

Answers (8)

Answer: How long does one have drainage tubes for after Breast Reduction?

Answer: How long does one have drainage tubes for after Breast Reduction?

Answer: Drains

Answer: Drains

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Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

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How long does one have drainage tubes for after Breast Reduction?

Answers (8)

Answer: How long does one have drainage tubes for after Breast Reduction?

Answer: How long does one have drainage tubes for after Breast Reduction?

Answer: Drains

Answer: Drains

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.