Breast Reconstruction After Mastectomy
Whether you are thinking about having a mastectomy or have recently had one, there are some important things to know before and after your surgery. Read this article to learn about recovery, how to prepare for surgery, and the different types of breast reconstruction available.
Side effects
Besides the physical side effects of mastectomy, women also face psychological ones. Some women experience post-mastectomy syndrome, which is a temporary loss of nerve signals, impulses, and sensations.
Women who have had surgery will also have scars on the incision site. The size of the scar depends on the type of mastectomy. Generally, women are given a soft temporary prosthesis to wear while the wounds heal. Once the wounds are healed, women can be fitted with a permanent prosthesis.
Recovery time after mastectomy depends on the type of surgery and the extent of tissue removed. Most women are able to return to normal activities within a few weeks. Some may need to spend a few more weeks or months recovering.
During the recovery process, people are also advised to avoid stress and anxiety. They should also have plenty of rest and be sure to eat a healthy diet. They should also seek help from friends and family.
Some side effects of mastectomy are numbness in the chest or arms, swelling of the breast or armpit, and infection. These side effects may be treated with antibiotics or over-the-counter medication.
Aside from the physical side effects of mastectomy, some women may experience psychological side effects such as depression and anxiety. These side effects may occur within the first year after surgery. If symptoms persist, patients may be referred to a psychotherapist.
Women should inform their doctors about any history of bleeding or blood thinning medications. They should also avoid smoking, which can interfere with the recovery process.
Breast cancer can spread to the lymph nodes. These lymph nodes may bleed and cause swelling in the chest. Women with cancer may also be referred to a doctor who performs radiotherapy on the chest wall.
Patients undergoing mastectomy should also research the qualifications of their surgeon. This will include the surgeon’s education and background, as well as their hospital accreditation. They should also review patient testimonials. They should also seek advice from their doctor about exercises and wound care.
Some women may also develop lymphoedema, a condition that causes fluid to build up under the skin. Women can also experience swelling or pain in the armpit or hand.
Recovery
Getting a mastectomy can be an emotional and physical challenge. Depending on your overall health, the recovery time will vary. Some patients can go home the same day they have their surgery, while others may need several weeks off work.
The good news is that recovery from a mastectomy is generally short. Most patients spend a night in the hospital, although those with breast reconstruction may need to stay for several nights. Some surgeons inject local anesthesia during the surgery to ease the pain.
The good news is that a mastectomy isn’t nearly as painful as it sounds. The surgeon will prescribe pain medication, and some patients report using very little. You can also minimize pain by soaking the area in a sponge bath before bedtime.
You might also want to try the following:
Try to take a lot of deep breaths during your hospital stay. This will help improve your blood pressure and heart rate. You can also do some light physical therapy, which will help restore your range of motion. You might also want to exercise your arms, although you should be cautious of any sudden stiffness in your shoulders.
During your recovery from a mastectomy, you may experience a hematoma or seroma. These are clear fluids that accumulate under the scar. They will dissipate as the doctor drains them.
The American Cancer Society recommends four weeks of recovery after a mastectomy. While you’ll likely be off work for a few weeks, you can typically resume your desk job within a week or two.
The best way to find out how long your recovery will be is to consult with your surgeon. He or she will give you a more detailed description of what to expect. You may also want to schedule a follow-up appointment, which is usually scheduled 7 to 10 days after your surgery.
You might also want to talk to your doctor about postponing reconstruction if you are concerned about your overall health. In some cases, a surgeon will suggest delaying reconstruction if you have cancer or have been diagnosed with a pre-existing medical condition.
Preparing for Surgery
Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned breast cancer patient, preparing for mastectomy surgery is an important step in ensuring a successful recovery. Preparing for mastectomy surgery involves several steps, each one aimed at minimizing discomfort and side effects after surgery.
The best way to prepare for mastectomy surgery is to speak with your healthcare provider about your current routines. This includes your fitness levels, diet, and the medications you’re taking. Your provider can make suggestions to help you get the most from your recovery time.
You should also read the post-op instructions carefully. These will include instructions on when to start wearing a breast prosthesis and how to care for yourself at home.
You may also need to remove dentures and eyeglasses. You will be asked to remove any makeup or nail polish you have on. You may also be asked to remove your wig.
You may have blood drawn. You may also have an intravenous (IV) line placed in your arm. The IV line is used to deliver fluid directly into your bloodstream.
You should also take the time to call your surgeon’s office with any questions you have. Your surgeon may also send you home with specific instructions for dressing and draining.
You should also talk to your healthcare provider about any herbal supplements you take. Some herbs, such as Ginkgo biloba, interfere with blood clotting. Other herbs, such as vitamin C, may be reviewed with your doctor.
You should also contact a support group. Many patients benefit from a strong support system. Having friends or family members that can be a support when you’re undergoing surgery can make a big difference. You may be able to join a local support group.
Lastly, you should make sure you have a responsible adult to drive you home. Your family and friends can visit you in the hospital’s Ambulatory Recovery Room. They can also help you get your affairs in order, such as finding a new doctor or pharmacy.
As with any surgery, you may experience side effects including pain, nausea, and fatigue. If you experience any problems during your recovery, you may need to stay in the hospital for a night. You may also be limited in lifting and other household activities.
Breast reconstruction options
Choosing the best breast reconstruction options after mastectomy is a personal decision. Many factors will affect your decision. It is best to consult with your plastic surgeon to discuss your options. You can also talk with other women who have undergone the same procedure. You can also read reliable books or join support groups.
The two main reconstruction options are implants and tissue flaps. Implants are saline or silicone breast inserts that are placed into the breast. Implants are often placed during the same surgery as the mastectomy. Implants look more natural, but they are not as durable as the real thing.
Another breast reconstruction option is to reconstruct the breast using the patient’s own tissue. The tissue used can be from the abdomen, buttocks, or upper thigh. This option is more natural than implants, but there are other complications. The skin from the other parts of the body may not be as thick as the skin from the breast, and it can result in a patchy appearance.
Breast reconstruction techniques are always improving. Some of these techniques include tissue expanders, nipple-saving techniques, and autologous tissue reconstruction. These procedures are more natural-looking, and the results are usually better tolerated than standard prosthetic techniques.
Breast reconstruction after a mastectomy is a delicate procedure. Women often experience some emotional distress following the procedure. If you are having a difficult time dealing with the loss of your breast, you should talk to your plastic surgeon. They may recommend pain medications or a special bra.
If your cancer is invasive, you may not be a good candidate for breast reconstruction. However, if you have a non-invasive form of cancer, you may be a good candidate for reconstruction. The type of reconstruction you choose depends on your overall health, body habitus, and your preferences.
If you are considering breast reconstruction, you should talk with your plastic surgeon about your options. You can also research information online. You can also join support groups and contact other women who have undergone reconstruction. You may also want to meet with a genetic counselor to discuss your options.
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U.S. National Library of Medicine. (n.d.). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
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Health A-Z. (2022, April 26). Verywell Health. https://www.verywellhealth.com/health-a-z-4014770
Harvard Health. (2015, November 17). Health A to Z. https://www.health.harvard.edu/health-a-to-z
Health Conditions A-Z Sitemap. (n.d.). EverydayHealth.com. https://www.everydayhealth.com/conditions/
