Fatigue: Many people feel tired for days or weeks after the surgery.Potential side effects and risks include: There is also a risk of complications following the surgery. Share on Pinterest Experiencing fatigue for days or weeks after surgery is common.Ī double mastectomy can cause some physical side effects. It is also common to feel happiness and relief as the recovery progresses. Accept whatever emotions arise, and know that it is normal to feel grief, anger, sadness, and fear after this type of procedure.
Expect to feel emotional: Some days will be better than others.Call a doctor for extra assistance if necessary. Some people find the wounds distressing, so it may be a good idea to have a loved one nearby for support and reassurance. Do not face everything alone: A doctor may tell some people to remove the surgical bandages themselves.Use sponge baths instead to freshen up and stay clean. Take sponge baths: Avoid showering until the doctor removes the drains and sutures.Do these every day to prevent stiffness and maintain flexibility. Exercise: The surgeon will recommend arm exercises to speed up recovery.Take pain medication: Take pain medication as necessary to manage pain or discomfort in the armpit or chest following surgery.Avoid doing strenuous work or taking on too much.
Ask for help: Ask friends and family to help with housework, meal preparation, and childcare. A double mastectomy is a major surgical procedure, and adequate rest gives the body time to heal. Rest: Rest and relax as much as possible. The surgeon will provide detailed instructions for the recovery period, but the following tips may help: It may take longer for people who have had breast reconstruction. The American Cancer Society offer a range of support programs throughout the United States.Īt-home recovery from a double mastectomy usually takes a few weeks. Make a list of helpful organizations and contacts, including cleaning services, taxi companies, and pet sitters. Seeking support: Knowing where to get post-surgery support can help some people stay calm before the procedure. The seatbelt may hurt the newly sensitive chest area, so bring a small pillow to place between the chest and belt. Driving home: It is essential to arrange a ride home because driving after being under anesthesia is dangerous. Placing books, bottles of water, and other important items within easy reach of the bed or sofa can also help. Preparing the home: It can be helpful to cook and freeze meals in advance of the surgery and ask friends or family to help with cooking and cleaning. After the surgery, the doctor may prescribe specific bras, as medical insurance may cover these prescription items. However, it is a good idea to wait for a few weeks after surgery before buying mastectomy bras, as the chest size will change as the swelling goes down. Buying bras: Some women who are not having reconstruction surgery may wish to wear prosthetics. It is best to include loose-fitting tops, cardigans, and zip-up hoodies as these clothes allow room for the drainage tubes following surgery. 
In preparation for the surgery, the individual will need to pack a hospital bag for this stay.
Packing: A mastectomy typically involves staying for a maximum of 3 nights in the hospital. Anyone taking aspirin or other blood-thinning medications may need to stop taking them for several days or weeks before the procedure. The doctor may also instruct the individual to avoid eating or drinking for a certain amount of time before the surgery. doing blood tests or other tests if necessary. Share on Pinterest Recovery time following a double mastectomy is typically 4 to 6 weeks.Ī doctor will help a person prepare for a double mastectomy by:
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