A mastectomy is an operation to remove a breast or both breasts and the surrounding tissue and lymph nodes. The surgery is done to cut out the cancer, although some choose to have a mastectomy as a means to prevent breast cancer. After surgery, it is important to follow the doctor's orders for aftercare at home.
Medications
Pain management is important after a mastectomy, as following any major surgery, and patients are often prescribed pain medications to take at home. Pain medications work best when taken on a regular schedule, every four to six hours. Also, after a mastectomy, antibiotics are prescribed to fight infections. Take all of the antibiotics as prescribed to ensure that infection doesn't occur.
Dressing and Wound Care
Once surgery is done, a drainage tube is put in and the incision area is sutured and covered with Steri-Strips. A gauze or plastic wrap is then placed around the chest to protect the incision and tube as well as help reduce swelling. Once home, do not remove the gauze, sutures, or Steri-Strips. Keep a watch on the drainage tube and empty it every three to four hours. Keep a chart that shows the amount of drainage emptied. Watch for clogs and make sure the drain doesn't become blocked. Once the drainage tube is removed, and if you have a plastic dressing, then you may take a shower. Wash the sutured area carefully with soap and water.
Exercise
Light exercise is important after a mastectomy but only when your doctor gives you the okay. Physical therapy is often prescribed for working out the arms and shoulders so that mobility and strength are restored. Walking is also great because it helps with circulation and stiffness. Avoid heavy lifting, driving, or any strenuous activity until your sutures are removed. Performing any type of strenuous activities can result in opening up the wound or reinjury.
Counseling
Anyone who has undergone a mastectomy often become depressed and feels disfigured. Dealing with this radical change to the body can be hard so it's important that patients feeling a loss of self esteem seek the advice of a counselor.
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