What is Plastic Surgery Drains?
Drains are placed during your surgery to keep fluids from accumulating at the surgical site – lowering the risk of infection and hematoma. It consists of a clear tube attached to a bulb/collection device. For some, drains can be removed right after the procedure. But for the majority of patients, drains are left in place once they are discharged and removed 1-2 weeks after the procedure.
How do I take care of my Jackson Pratt (JP) Drains?
- Make sure to record your drain output when deflating the drain bulb 3-4 times a day. We recommend that patients check their drains every meal and before going to bed to help them remember.
- Clean your JP drains with a Q-tip and alcohol twice a day.
- Using a small piece of gauze and tape to cover the drain entry site to prevent infection.
- As you record your levels, make sure that the results are kept separate each time. Do not add them up.
The output per drain should be at most 30 ml/ccs every 24-hours for 2 consecutive days before our doctor(s) can remove it.
Please contact us immediately if you are experiencing irregular fluid levels.
JP Drain Log Sheet
