American Society of Plastic Surgeons
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astel9186
4 months ago
Answered

Post op drain removal for breast reduction and lift

Is this standard dc instructions? I was told I have very thin skin and should be laying in bed as much as possible the next five days, only getting up in increments of 30 min. Attached is the instructions

Procedure: Breast Reduction
Location: oakdale, NY

Replies 3

Richard Bosshardt
ASPS Surgeon

I am not sure who came up with these instructions. I have been doing breast reductions and breast lift for nearly 35 years. I have never placed a drain in a single one. No exceptions. I pad the breasts in a thick layer of gauze for gentle compression and to absorb the usual minimal seepage of blood from the incisions. I put the patient into a bra, just for the purpose of keeping the dressing in place. Both are removed a week later at the first office visit. Patients can shower from the waist down immediately. I allow patients to sleep as they wish, except on their stomach. The can move around normally and go about normal daily activities as soon as they wish. I do not limit use of their arms at all. I count the number of bleeding problems I have had in patients without complicating factors (taking blood thinners and such) on the fingers of one hand and have fingers left over. Methinks your surgeon is a bit "over-the-top" with these instructions.

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Janet Woodyard
ASPS Surgeon
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I have been doing breast reduction surgery for 30 years. I think those instructions are a bit too stringent.

I use a soft patted dressing and a surgical bra immediately. I let patients walk and do most light activities. But I have them avoid running, jumping, and excessive use of the arms and I don't allow them to exercise.. I allow patients to sleep on their back or on their side and I allow them to drive when they feel comfortable enough to do so.

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Alfred Antonetti
ASPS Surgeon

Nothing wrong with using a drain. I want my patients out of bed and walking but not exercising, running or lifting. Your instructions are a bit too stringent but ask your surgeon about it

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