While you can return to most of your normal activities after undergoing breast reconstruction, you will not be able to engage in strenuous activities for several weeks. You will be scheduled for follow-up visits with Dr. Parva. Additionally, you will be given instructions regarding postoperative care. For updates and discussion, please call the office at the number provided. Recovery from breast reconstruction can take as long as two weeks, but you will not experience any complications.
Post-operative treatment
There are many things you can do to help your breast reconstruction recovery go smoothly. You can return to your regular activities after your stitches are removed. However, it is best to avoid strenuous activity. Your caregiver should know your normal activities and help you plan your activities. After surgery, you can return to walking but housework and driving cannot be resumed until your drain is cleared. It is possible to begin exercising after six weeks. However, it is best that you wait until your first meeting with your provider to discuss your current level of physical activity.
You will receive a thick dressing to reduce swelling after surgery. The dressing can be removed within a few days, or it may stay in place for longer periods. Some surgeons use a wound drain to drain blood or fluid into a small container. These drains can be removed but will require care. After surgery, you will have a few days of follow-up care.
Signs
You may need to stay in hospital for a few days after your breast reconstruction. You will be given instructions about what to do in the days and weeks following the procedure. This time will make you tireder than usual so get plenty of sleep. You may feel feverish, redder, and have drainage from the site of your incision. You may also have to take antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection.
Another problem that can occur after breast reconstruction is swelling. Oedema refers to swelling that occurs in your breasts, chest wall, upper arm and elbows. The swelling will subside as your chest heals. Under your arms, you may feel a tugging sensation. You may be prescribed anti-emetics by your surgeon to ease this discomfort. You may need to take several weeks off work after your surgery to be able to resume normal activities.
Procedures
There are many options for breast reconstruction. Each procedure has a different recovery process and requires different preparation. The first phase of the procedure involves stretching the skin over the donor site. Once the area looks ready, a siliconegel or salinebased implant can be inserted. The surgeon fills a tissue extender, which stays attached to the donor site for around a week. During this phase, the tissue expander may rupture, resulting in pain and infection. The implant can be removed and reconstructed after it is placed. This will restore the breast shape and size. TRAM flaps, which use tissue taken from the patient's abdomen in order to form a mound, are another type. These procedures may require additional sedation and may require a cut to the abdominal muscle and fat.
Although the procedure itself is easy, the recovery time can be longer than expected. Some people feel better after only a few days. Other patients experience prolonged swelling or bruising that continues for months. This is not necessarily the case for all patients. This is why a counselor or physical therapist might be beneficial to patients. These professionals will assist the woman in her emotional and physical healing process. A healthcare professional will also offer instructions on caring for breasts at home.
Time for recovery
Patients should expect some discomfort after recovering from breast surgery. The pain might be severe for the first 24hrs, but will gradually diminish over time. You may be required to take pain medication, or relax your muscles. Drainage tubes can be used occasionally to reduce swelling, and prevent fluid buildup. Patients can resume their normal activities such as swimming and other strenuous sports after the incisions have been closed.
The amount of time it takes to recover from breast reconstruction surgery is different for everyone. While most women can return to light physical activity four to six weeks after surgery, some may need longer. Depending on your procedure, it may be necessary to avoid lifting heavy objects until your doctor allows you to do so. Breast reconstruction can take between two to six weeks, although some patients may only require four. For the first two week following breast reconstruction, it is recommended that you stay at the hospital for one or two days.