Postop ImplantsPost-Operative Instructions Implant Reconstruction
Medications
There are 6 medications that you may be required to take after surgery:
- Antibiotic - to be continued until the drains are removed
- Pain Medication - remember this medication might make you feel groggy and constipated and cannot be mixed with alcohol
- Iron - same dose as taken before the surgery
- Multi-vitamins daily
- Zinc supplement 50mg daily
- Colace - Stool softener 100mg daily (as needed)
Drains
You will also be discharged home with your drains in place. There are usually 1 to 2 drains in the in each operated breast. It is necessary to record total daily output for each drain. When the drain is near full, empty the contents into a measuring cup and record the amount in ml (equal to cc). You can also use the drain bulb itself that has markings to measure the output. Strip the drain tubing 3 times per day. If the drain requires emptying more than once per day, enter the DAILY TOTAL in the appropriate space on the Drain Record Sheet. When your drain output is less than 25cc total per drain in 24 hours that drain will be removed in clinic. We use silastic drains, which reduce any discomfort during removal of the drain. The small opening that will remain in the skin will seal in 24-48 hrs. This opening may have a small amount of drainage, and can be covered with dry gauze until it seals closed.
Incision Care
Most of the incisions have absorbable sutures that are hidden underneath the skin. Sometimes, you might feel a small knot come up in the incision area. Do not worry; this can sometimes happen and will be removed during your clinic visit. Your incisions are sealed with special fibrin glue so you do not need to apply any ointment. After 2 weeks, the glue will start to peel and you can start taking it off in the shower. Also, you may resume your skin moisturizer and start to massage the incisions to improve the scar appearance.
Showering
You will be able to shower 48 hours after surgery. Baths can be resumed month after surgery, and swimming 8 weeks after surgery.
Swelling
After surgery, your breast will feel swollen, especially at the end of the day. This is normal and usually takes at least a month or more to resolve.
Surgical Garments
You will go home with a post-surgical bra. You may also be fitted with a bra in our office post-operatively, which will need to be purchased through our office. A receipt will be given to you that you may submit to your insurance for any reimbursement.
Activities
When you are discharged from the hospital, you will be able to take short walks and climb stairs. For 1 week after you return home, do not raise your arm on the oeprated side above your shoulder. You may resume regular activities 1 week after surgery. Of course, no lifting anything heavier than 5 pounds for the first month. After 2 weeks, you may gradually resume your exercise regimen and begin to perform arm stretches, and you can return to full active status 4 weeks after surgery.
Sleep Position
You should only sleep on your back, and avoid sleeping on the reconstructed breast(s) for at least 8 weeks.
Driving
You may start driving after you have stopped all your pain medication and your drains are removed. It is best to wait at least 2 weeks after surgery, in order to feel confident when driving.
Work
You will be able to return back to a desk job, or light duty at 2 weeks after surgery. Be mindful that this should be gradual because you will feel more tired and lack the normal reserve of energy.
Scars and Massage
After the incisions have completely healed, you can start applying pressure massage to the incisions to improve the appearance of the scars. Remember, that for the first 6 months, your scars will remain red, but with time they will turn lighter as they mature.
Smoking
ABSOLUTELY NO SMOKING for 6 weeks after surgery (this includes staying out of the room with smokers).
Emotional Support
The recovery period may be very difficult, when mood swings and emotions can be overwhelming. Contact our office for assistance in finding one of the many support groups available.
Mammograms
A routine mammogram does not need to be performed on the reconstructed breast. However, it can be performed if requested by your oncologist or other physician. You should still perform a self-breast exam on the reconstructed breast and keep note of any changes in the scar. |
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