drain?

I have been reading some things about having a drain after surgery.  How often do people have drains?  and how long are they in? Do you go home with one or do they take it out just before discharge from the hospital?

 I had my surgery on 10/19 and went home 10/21 with the drain in. Each doctor is different.  It was a little annoying but nothing I couldn't live with.  I was told to empty it every 8 hours. Again, nothing bad. The drain was taken out by my surgeon on 10/25. It was done in about 5 minutes with no discomfort. 

i had a drain when i woke up and they took it out right before i went home.  uncomfortable to be carrying around but not a big deal.

I had one in for two days, it is a pain in the butt, I felt so much better when it was taken out, it does cause discomfort but like someone else said it is not that bad. It just feels weird when it is taken out, nothing painful like i said it was a big relief in the pain part and it is almost like you didn't have surgery once it is gone. Just my experience anyways, my recovery was nothing compared to some saying they are in lots of pain afterwards. I think it has to do with the surgeon and their technique.

I had a drain overnight. It was taken out before discharge. It felt weird, some discomfort but mostly a really odd sensation.
I know some doctors leave them in longer, but mine did not.

I never had a drain

ask your surgeon! for me- I did have a drain and it was taken out the day I went home. It depends on how much fluid comes out during your stay and how long the surgeon wants you to keep it. It is a little annoying when you have to go to the bathroom (as a girl) to deal with it - but you can't even feel it when you are just sitting around. Mine hurt like a ***** to come out because they let the first year take it out and he didn't pull it out fast enough... lol damn teaching hospital! just kidding - once it was out I was fine! Good luck with your surgery!

I will ask the doctor tomorrow. I have a list of things to ask about for my specific case. Thanks for the info

They took my drain out the day I left hospital I was there 3 nights...

I never had one, or a catheter either.