This is 6 part series about my breast cancer and reconstruction surgeries—some real talk, a bit of education, and most importantly some humor.
Drain drama, shower fails, and the grudging appreciation for the tubes that kept me infection-free.
I complained about my drains every single day for the three weeks I had them to anyone who would listen, mostly my sister, who’s a nurse because, well, it just felt right.
Drains are exceptionally annoying and uncomfortable, and they itch. The rubber catches against your skin constantly. Sleeping is a disaster. I had to go in for extra dressing changes because while I only showered a few times during the first few weeks, I couldn’t manage to follow my plastic surgeon’s instructions to “use lukewarm water” and “don’t stand in the stream” – that sounds like the kind of shower P. Diddy deserves, not me.
Anyway, they were spectacularly gross and uncomfortable, BUT they served a purpose, and they did their job. No infections. No seromas.
I’m so grateful for access to healthcare, medicine, and science.
Drain Education Sidebar
Drains are essential after surgery, especially for mastectomies and reconstructions, because they prevent fluid buildup. Here are some quick pro tips:
- Empty them regularly (usually 2-3 times a day). They can get heavy, and the last thing you want is backup.
- Track output (yes, this is a thing). Most doctors will ask you to record how much fluid comes out, so keep track on a little chart or app. It might feel weird, but it’s important.
- Keep them close – The drains need to be secured to your body, usually with a band or special pocket or, in my case, a good old fashioned safety pin (thank you nurses). That rubber tubing is not your friend and the drains falling to the ground does not feel awesome.
- Cargo pants: your new best friend – Fashion aside, they’re weirdly perfect. Extra pockets mean extra options for stashing your drains when you’re out and about.
- Elastic resistance bands aren’t just for fitness – If you’ve got them, you can rig a system for showering just as good as anything medical-grade. Innovation born from desperation.
- Shower smarter – The drains themselves are waterproof, but the bandage covering the insertion site is not. A handheld showerhead and a plastic bag over the area help, but showers during drain life are more of a survival mission than a self-care ritual.
As much as they feel like it, they’re not just a gross accessory. They’re a necessity. Annoying, awkward, and deeply unglamorous—but ultimately lifesaving. So here’s to the drains: the unsung, uncomfortable heroes of post-op recovery. May they do their job quickly and get out of your body even faster.
10 out of 10 would not recommend – also, would not go without.