Post-Op Instructions
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Post-Operative Instructions for Drains
Drains are devices often used postoperatively to evacuate the fluid that accumulates after surgical procedures and enable you to heal faster. When the drain is first put in place, the bulb at the end of the tube will be compressed to create gentle suction. As the fluid collects in the bulb, it will expand.
Secure the bulb of the drain to your clothes with a safety pin or place the bulb in your pocket. The evening of your surgery, you should empty the bulb by opening the plug at the top and pouring out the contents. Do not attempt to remove the bulb from the tubing. Squeeze the bulb to recompress it, and put the plug back into the hole at the top in order to maintain the vacuum. Empty your bulb whenever it is half full or greater. If the bulb fills rapidly after emptying it, or if you need to empty it more than three times daily, please call our office at (847)968-2401.
Dr. Tijunelis will typically remove the drains on your first post-operative visit, but occasionally they are left in longer. Removing them is not painful. You may shower 24 hours after the drains have been removed
If the drains come out unexpectedly, they cannot be replaced. This is NOT an emergency. Place a gauze or band-aid over the site and call the office during regular office hours.
