I just had my surgery on 3/15, Dr Ortiz at Mi hospital and your description is right on!! I'm originally from NYC so barely noticed the notice outside lol. Kits worth mentioning the great privacy. The hospital rooms have their own bathroom, very clean and an extra bed for your companion. For the drain. You are correct to come off is a weird pressure for about 3 seconds. I personally didn't notice its presence until it was gone. The recovery process is amazing. But you do have to take little walks, makes a world if difference. I had same experience with the IV, 2 because one went bad and the first time took 3 tries. However I have a history of this issue, have a small and playful veins that love to high.
This was an amazing experience. Nothing to fear! The leak test was the worst for me bc the liquid is awful.