I had two separate surgeries with drain placements and was allowed to shower immediately after they were removed. I had my drains for 8 days first surgery and 14 days for my second. I sat in the bath up to waist level, drains pinned to my surgical bra and my husband helped wash my back and newly sprouting peachfuzz. It was quite refreshing and felt as though I took a complete shower.

I never ev4en had drains after my lumpectomy I just had last week. I have my bandages on that are sealed in plastic type of material with the gauze. I was told that I can remove it after day 4 and today is day 5. I have yet to remove everything. Post op appointment is thursday. I will wait.

I actually showered 48 hours after surgery and it was heaven. Not sure why they would make you wait, now sitting in the tub was a no-no. They gave me a thing to hang around my neck that I attached the drains to and showered away. That was usually the best time of my day. The hot water on the incisions really did take away a lot of the tenderness. I would check though because every surgeon is different I am sure.

My dr said showers are fine just don't scrub the surgical area. Water and soap running over it is fine. Also you should be changing out your gauze

I know this is a little late, but it might help someone else later. My doctor said I could shower 48 hours after surgery. She recommended putting a towel around my neck and pinning the bulbs from the drains to the towel. Awkward, I know, but it works. After the replacement surgery the doctor also said I could shower 48 hours after surgery. The instructions said to wash the incisions with soap and water. I have steristrips over the incisions.