Lumpectomy
When is my first appointment after my surgery?
You will be given a follow-up appointment 1 week after your surgery. Pathology results will be normally ready.
Can I shower?
You can shower 24 hours after your surgery. Keep your incision covered until your physician removes it. Once stitches are removed, you may take your shower and keep your incision uncover. Do not take tub baths, swim, or use hot tubs or saunas until you discuss it with your doctor at the first appointment after your surgery.
Will I be able to eat?
You can resume eating when you go home after surgery. Eating a balanced diet high in protein will help you heal after surgery. Your diet should include a healthy protein source at each meal, as well as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. If you have questions about your diet, ask to see a dietitian.
Will I be able to travel?
Yes, you can travel. If you are traveling by plane within a few weeks after your surgery, make sure you get up and walk every hour. Be sure to stretch your arms like combing your hair, drink plenty of liquids, and keep your feet elevated when possible.
When can I lift heavy objects?
Most people should not lift anything heavier than 10 pounds (4.5 kilograms) for at least 4 weeks after surgery.
What if my biopsy is positive to cancer?
If you need more treatment, your doctor may recommend, more surgery if the margins around your tumor weren't cancer-free. A medical oncologist to discuss other forms of treatment after the operation, such as hormone therapy if your cancer is sensitive to hormones or chemotherapy or both. A radiation oncologist to discuss radiation treatments, which are typically recommended after lumpectomy. A counselor or support group to help you cope with having breast cancer.
How do I care for my incisions?
Do not uncover your incision until your physician does in your first visit. Normally one week after lumpectomy. If you have a drain, your physician will remove it, normally before discharge. If it is, needed you will go home with it is going to be removed by your physician in the first appointment after surgery.
Will I have pain when I am home?
The length of time each person has pain or discomfort varies. You will be given a prescription for pain medication before you go home. Follow the guidelines below to manage your pain. Call your doctor if the pain medication prescribed for you doesn’t relieve your pain. Do not drive or drink alcohol while you are taking prescription pain medication.
When is it safe for me to drive?
You may resume driving after surgery as long as you are not taking prescription pain medication that may make you drowsy, and you have your full range of motion. Avoid drastic movements during with the arm of the breast operated for the first 6 weeks. Do exercise like combing your hair for 10 minutes 3 times a day.
When can I return to work?
You may resume driving after surgery as long as you are not taking prescription pain medication that may make you drowsy, and you have your full range of motion. Avoid drastic movements during with the arm of the breast operated for the first 6 weeks. Do exercise like combing your hair for 10 minutes 3 times a day.
How can I cope with my feelings?
After surgery for a serious illness, you may have new and upsetting feelings. Many patients say they felt sad, worried, nervous, irritable, or angry at one time or another. You may find that you cannot control some of these feelings. If this happens, it’s a good idea to seek emotional support.
Is it normal to feel new sensations?
As you are healing, you may feel a several different sensations in your breast. Tenderness, numbness, and twinges are common examples. These sensations usually come and go, and will lessen over time, usually within the first few months after surgery. As you continue to heal, you may feel scar tissue along your incision site. It will feel hard. This is common and will soften over the next several months.
How can I prevent constipation?
Constipation is less common in this type of surgery. Exercise if you can; walking is an excellent form of exercise. Drink 8 (8-ounce) glasses (2 liters) of liquids daily, if you can. Drink water, juices, soups, ice cream shakes, and other drinks that do not have caffeine. Beverages with caffeine, such as coffee and soda, pull fluid out of the body. Slowly increase the fiber in your diet to 25 to 35 grams per day. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and cereals contain fiber. If you have an ostomy or have had recent bowel surgery, check with your doctor or nurse before making any changes in your diet. If you haven’t had a bowel movement in 2 days, call your doctor.
When can I resume sexual activity?
It depends on your recovery and pain management. Not contraindicated.
What exercises can I do?
Exercise will help you gain strength and feel better. Walking and stair climbing are excellent forms of exercise. Gradually increase the distance you walk. Climb stairs slowly, resting or stopping as needed. Arm movements, comb your hair with the arm of side operated.
What if I have other questions?
Call Sofia, she will be glad to help you and coordinate with your physician.