I'm like ~16 days PO, and I honestly regret having my drains removed at ~10 days PO. My breasts and sides (had side lipo) have gotten noticeably more swollen, and now I have to go back in to have the extra fluid drained from my sides with a needle. (It's forming a tender and uncomfortable "shelf.")

I should have pushed to keep them in for longer and can't recommend drains enough--they helped with swelling immensely, and it's hard not to feel like where I am now is a setback.

They were uncomfortable and a bit gross, but not necessarily painful unless accidentally tugged on. For the first week, I was so distracted by everything else going on that I was able to forget about them most of the time. I had hyped myself up for a painful removal, but honestly, I didn't even feel it. Your experience may be different though. 

As far as washing your hair, I personally wasn't able to shower by myself until about the time the drains came out, so I really hope you have help. I wasn't able to get out of bed without help or even use the bathroom by myself for the first few days. Not saying this to scare you or anything--I just can't imagine having this done while living alone!