A mastectomy is typically the result of treatment for breast cancer but it can also be a proactive surgery for those who are genetically susceptible to this disease. Regardless of the reason, this surgery can be traumatic to women of all ages. Besides being an invasive procedure, it brings in a lot of unanswered questions as to what to expect when recovering from a mastectomy. I can give you some insight into what you may experience and some tips and essentials to helping you recover from your mastectomy. Visit HPFY for all and any of your mastectomy needs.
There are numerous treatments for a diagnosis of breast cancer. One common option for a woman is a mastectomy. The basic definition of a mastectomy is surgery to remove the breast and even surrounding tissue if necessary. For the longest time, standard mastectomy surgery was a radical mastectomy which included the total removal of the breast, lymph nodes in the underarm, and muscles in the chest under the breast. Thankfully, surgical advances have allowed for more options and less invasive procedures and even breast conserving treatments for some cases. The type of mastectomy you may need depends upon:
Depending upon your individual case and tumor type/size, your doctor may opt for different types of surgical procedures. A total mastectomy is when your doctor removes the entire breast (including the nipple) and sometimes the lymph nodes. You may also opt for a preventive mastectomy if you are at high risk of developing breast cancer. This is also known as prophylactic mastectomy. A double mastectomy is when both breasts are removed as well as involved tissue.
Recovering from any surgery, let alone a mastectomy, raises many questions. For most, it’s a journey into the unknown and can be scary. What should you expect after your surgery? After your surgery you will:
The typical stay for mastectomy surgery can vary, but normally a stay of 3-4 days in the hospital should be expected. As you go home, your physician/surgeon or nurse will give you instructions that will help with your home recovery. His/her instructions may include:
Once you have your mastectomy recovery routine, your physician will want a follow-up exam. Normally, this may be 1-2 weeks after your surgery to facilitate healing and ensure everything is going to plan.
As you can imagine, recovery from mastectomy surgery can require some essential medical aids. There are some must have items that can help with your home recovery plan. Some necessary items that are essential can be:
One other mastectomy essential can be planning ahead. Being proactive before you go in for surgery can make your return simpler and more comfortable. Once you have your mastectomy surgery, it’s obvious that you will have limited mobility for a short period of time and planning ahead can simplify things. This early prep can include:
Yes, discomfort is normal after mastectomy surgery and every patient experiences pain in a different way, longevity, or intensity. Typically, pain medicine is prescribed after a mastectomy and should be taken ONLY AS PRESCRIBED. Acute pain from a mastectomy gradually will subside but a 2018 study cited in the National Library of Medicine stated approximately 20%-30% of those who have a mastectomy can develop chronic pain. Consult your doctor, surgeon, or mastectomy nurse if you have lingering pain.
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