Drains

[anny]

Can someone explain why some surgeons use drains and why some don't. What is better/easier ? Or does it depend on the patient ?
Thanx

[sunny]

depends on the surgeons preference and it also depends on the op. the more complicated ie lift/reduction etc may require drains, a simple implant only may not.

[anny]

So if there are no drains, where does the liquid drain to ? Or is that not a problem.?

[sunny]

I suppose it (the excess fluid) must find its way out somehow.
But good question to ask the surgeon!

[sunny]

The drains are used to drain away bleeding in addition to diathermy during the op (burning the ends of blood vessels to stop them bleeding). If the op is straight forward the surgeon may use a drain however many, including mine, feel that good diathermy during the surgery is sufficient to stop bleeding.
If its a complicated op than both techniques are more likely to be used. Diathermy is always used. I think my surgeon uses them in more complicated cases.
Drains have advantages however there are disadvantages such as a possible entry for infection to get into the wound, discomfort sometimes on removal. Drains are only as good as where they are placed and as long as they dont block. Patients dont like them either...generally.
At the end of the day the choice is your surgeons you just have to choose a surgeon. You can state a preference but a surgeon wont put in/or leave out a drain if he feels the op will be best with/without it just because the patient wants it a certain way. this should be discussed at your consultation so you are both aware of how things are between you.

[wonderingroman]

I would leave the decision up to the surgeon. He knows what is best in any given case.