-
Wear a bra day and
night for 48 hours after surgery. After that you may way
wear it at night for support.
-
You may take the dressing
off after 48 hours and take a shower allowing soap and
water to run over the incision line.
-
Leave steri strips
(butterfly stitches) on your incision line. They will
probably fall of by themselves within one week. If not,
you can peel them off.
-
There may be some bruising
and tenderness to your breast from surgery, but that is
normal. However, the bruise should not increase in size.
-
During the first 48
hours after surgery, you may use an ice pack placed over
your dressing. After the first 48 hours, the use of heat
is recommended. You may use a heating pad on a low setting
for 10 to 15 minutes 2 to 3 times a day.
-
Along with the ice
and heat, you may use the pain medication prescribed by
your doctor. For minimal pain you may use acetaminophen
or ibuprofen. Follow the instructions on the label.
-
You should be able
to return to work the following day and may resume driving
the following day unless you are still taking prescription
pain medication, still experiencing pain or a lot of soreness.
-
If you are experience
constipation, take milk of magnesia or a mild laxative
and drink plenty of fluids, especially water.
-
Either a nurse or the
doctor will call you with the pathology report as soon
as it becomes available.
-
You should schedule
a follow-up appointment with your physician for 10-14
days after your surgery.
-
You may resume normal
activities, but you should wear a supporting a bra. No
lifting greater than 15 pounds for the first week.
-
Call the office for
the following signs and symptoms:
....increased pain, swelling, or redness beyond incision
....any green or yellow drainage from incision site
....temperature above 101.
