Drains

Hi Dr. Rosenberg,

What are your thoughts of using drains for breast augmentation revisions?  My ps is about to perform a capsulorraphy on me along with making the pocket larger.  Do you think drains should be used afterwards?

What are the pros and cons with suction drains?  I am concerned about the increase risk of infection...

Will the drains help lessen the formation of scar tissues?

Many thanks for your advice in advance.

[Howard Rosenberg, MD]

I personally use drains only if I feel that there is excess bleeding during the procedure that might result in increased risk of scar tissue re-formation.  Excess blood in the implant pocket is a known cause of capsule contracture.  However, I usually do not use drains.  This is an individual decision based on the personal experience of the surgeon.