After breast reconstruction you can resume your normal activities, however you won't have the ability to engage in strenuous activities. You will be scheduled for follow-up visits with Dr. Parva. Additionally, you will be given instructions regarding postoperative care. To discuss your experience and receive updates, call the office as directed. Breast reconstruction recovery can take up to two weeks. However, you won't experience any complications.
Post-operative care
A variety of activities are available to assist you in your recovery from breast reconstruction. While you can resume your normal activities, you should refrain from strenuous activity until your stitches are removed. Let your caregiver know what you normally do and plan activities around this. Walking can be resumed right after surgery, but driving and housework cannot be done until your drain is removed. While you might be able to exercise after six weeks of recovery, you should wait to see your provider for your first consultation to discuss your level of activity.
To reduce swelling, a thick dressing will be applied to the affected area after surgery. This dressing will be removed in a day or two, but it may remain in place for a longer period of time. Some surgeons use small wound drains to drain blood and fluid from the wound. These drains can be removed but will require care. You will receive a few additional days of care after the surgery.
Symptoms
The hospital may require you to stay there for up to a week after your breast surgery. Instructions will be provided about what you should do for the following days and weeks. During this time, you will be much more tired than usual, so be sure to get plenty of rest. This time you might experience fever, increased redness and drainage from your incision site. In order to prevent infection, you may be required to take antibiotics.
Another common problem is swelling after breast surgery. 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. Your surgeon may prescribe anti-emetics to help you deal with this discomfort. You will need to return to your normal activities for several weeks after surgery.
Procedures
There are many kinds of breast reconstruction surgery. Each technique entails a different recovery time and requires different preparation. The first phase involves the stretching of the skin over a donor area. Once the area is prepared, a silicone-gel- or saline based implant is placed. 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 flap procedures can also be used to place tissue from the abdomen. This creates a mound. These procedures may involve a cut to the abdominal muscles and fat and may require additional sedation
Although the procedure itself is easy, the recovery time can be longer than expected. Although some patients may feel better in a matter of days, others experience prolonged swelling and even bruising for several months. This is not necessarily the case for all patients. A counselor or physical therapist may be a good option for patients. These people can assist the woman in their emotional and/or bodily recovery. A healthcare professional will also offer instructions on caring for breasts at home.
Time for recovery
Post-operative pain is normal after breast reconstruction surgery. The pain will initially be intense for the first 24 hours but should decrease over time. They may need to take pain medication or muscle relaxants. Drainage tubes can be used occasionally to reduce swelling, and prevent fluid buildup. Patients may be able go back to their regular activities once the incisions are closed.
Each person's recovery time from breast reconstructive surgery will vary. Some women are able to return to normal activities within 4 to 6 weeks. Others may need to take longer. You should not lift anything heavy, no matter what type of surgery you had. Breast reconstruction typically takes two to six week for recovery. However, some patients may only need four weeks. You should expect to stay in the hospital for one-two days during the first two weeks following surgery.