Q & A
Do I need a drainage tube after chest surgery?
Typically, the doctor will place a surgical drain to help reduce swelling after surgery. However, patients who prefer not to have a drain bottle can consult the doctor about using a short drainage tube.
What types of drainage tubes or blood drainage systems are there?
There are two main types of surgical drain systems:
- Normal surgical drain: This involves a drainage tube attached to a bottle that collects blood and fluids after surgery. It helps reduce swelling around the wound quickly and reduces the frequency of follow-up visits. This option is ideal for individuals who cannot take extended time off work.
- Short drainage tube: This option uses only the drainage tube without a bottle. Medical gauze is used to absorb the fluids instead. It is suitable for patients who can attend frequent follow-up visits, as the gauze needs to be changed daily.
Is a bandage chest necessary after surgery?
Initially, after surgery, the doctor will recommend wearing the binding to reduce swelling and help tissues adhere properly for faster healing. For individuals prone to scarring or who still have redness around the surgical area, doctors might advise continued compression to prevent raised scars or keloids.
How much does a Mastectomy cost?
The cost of top surgery or Mastectomy depends on the patient’s physical structure and other factors affecting the complexity of the procedure. It is best to consult directly with the doctor to evaluate the surgery and discuss plans to achieve optimal results tailored to the doctor’s and the patient’s goals.