Drain (Jackson-Pratt)

A Drain (Jackson-Pratt) is a soft silicone tube with small perforations that sits beneath the skin and connects to a flexible, compressible bulb to create gentle suction. The device collects blood and serous fluid away from the surgical site into the bulb, which reduces the chance of fluid accumulation (such as a seroma or hematoma) and supports more predictable healing.

These drains are commonly used in many plastic surgery procedures and are typically temporary; patients or caregivers are shown how to empty and measure the bulb, keep the insertion site clean, and record output. Removal usually occurs when output falls below a set threshold, often within a few days to a couple of weeks, and possible issues include local discomfort, blockage, accidental dislodgement or infection—promptly reporting increasing pain, redness, foul drainage, or sudden changes in output to the surgical team is important.