Postoperative Drains

Most reconstructive surgeons use drains in the reconstructive and flap donor sites after surgery. Nurses in the hospital, in addition to the surgeon, will instruct the patient as to the daily care of these drains. It is important for the patient to strip the drain of any thick contents multiple times during the day. It will also be important for the patient to measure the amount of fluid that collects in a drain over a 24-hour period. When the amount of fluid is decreased, it will be an indicator that the drain can be removed. Some surgeons will want the patient to be on a low dose of antibiotics while the drains are in place. It is important that the patient has refill prescriptions for the antibiotics if the drains are still in place. Additionally, surgeons may be very individual regarding the appropriateness of showering while drains are in place. Please ask the plastic surgeon or the office staff for showering limitations.