Mommy Makeover: Drains
One aspect of a mommy makeover that patients often have questions about is the use of drains. In this blog post, we'll cover what drains are, why they're used, and how to care for them during your recovery.
What are drains?
Drains are thin tubes that are inserted into the body during surgery to help remove excess fluids that can accumulate in the surgical site. They are commonly used after breast surgery, tummy tuck, and other procedures where there may be a lot of swelling or fluid buildup.
Why are drains used in a mommy makeover?
There are several reasons why your plastic surgeon may recommend the use of drains during your mommy makeover surgery:
To prevent fluid buildup: Excess fluid can cause swelling and discomfort, and can also increase the risk of infection. Drains help to prevent fluid buildup by allowing it to drain out of the body, which can speed up the recovery process.
To maintain the shape of the surgical site: Drains can help to maintain the shape of the surgical site by preventing fluid from collecting in areas where it could cause distortion.
To prevent complications: Using drains can help to reduce the risk of complications such as seroma (a pocket of clear fluid that can form after surgery) and infection.
Caring for your drains during recovery
If you have drains placed during your mommy makeover surgery, it's important to follow your plastic surgeon's instructions for care to ensure a smooth recovery. Here are a few general tips for caring for your drains:
Keep the area around your drains clean: Be sure to wash your hands before and after touching your drains. Your plastic surgeon will provide specific instructions for cleaning the area around your drains, which may include using a gentle soap or disinfectant.
Emptying and measuring your drains: Your plastic surgeon will provide instructions for emptying and measuring the output from your drains. It's important to keep track of the amount of fluid that is draining from your drains, as this can provide important information about your recovery progress.
Protecting your drains: Be careful not to tug or pull on your drains, and avoid getting them wet. Your plastic surgeon will provide specific instructions for showering and bathing with drains in place.
When to call your plastic surgeon: If you experience any unusual symptoms such as fever, increased pain, or an unusual smell coming from your drains, be sure to call your plastic surgeon right away.
Choosing a plastic surgeon for your mommy makeover
If you're considering a mommy makeover, it's important to choose a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon. Dr. Emily Borsting is a world-class plastic surgeon in Bend, Oregon who can provide a consultation and help you decide if a mommy makeover is right for you. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Borsting, contact her office today.
