breast lift

I am having a tummy tuck and periareolar maxtopexy w/ small implants. I have narrowed down to two excellent docs, and the one I am leaning towards will probably not be using drains on the breast lift. Friends who have had implants have told me that drains are a must. I don't know if I should reconsider using the other doc just to ensure I receive drains on the lift.
Also, one of the docs, I have seen their work in person and the other only through pics. Are pics and a phone call to the reference typically good enough?

It is always important to do your homework when searching for a plastic surgeon. Check their credentials and board affiliation. Look at lots of pictures form their previous patients. If you have a real life reference to look at... even better!
As far as drains go, they are typically used in surgical procedures that create a cavity or space. When a cavity or space is created during surgery, fluid is guaranteed to accumulate. The drains help the body to eliminate the fluid rapidly. You should ask your doctor about drains and why he or she chooses not to use them.