Post Operative Management Of Mastectomy
Explore essential guidelines for post-operative management of mastectomy, including wound care, pain control, physical therapy, and emotional support. Learn how proper aftercare promotes recovery and overall well-being.
Written by Dr.Sonia Bhatt
Last updated on 13th Jul, 2025
Introduction
Undergoing a mastectomy (surgical removal of one or both breasts) is a significant step in the treatment of breast cancer or other breast-related conditions. The recovery process is just as crucial as the surgery itself. Proper post-operative care ensures faster healing, reduces complications, and helps you regain strength. This guide will help you understand what to expect after a mastectomy and how to take care of yourself during recovery.
What to Expect After Mastectomy?
Things to expect after mastectomy are as follows:
1. Immediate Post-Surgery Recovery
You may wake up with a drainage tube near the surgical site to remove excess fluid.
Some pain, swelling, and tightness in the chest area are normal.
You might feel tired or weak for a few days.
Your doctor will prescribe pain medications to keep you comfortable.
2. Hospital Stay vs. Home Recovery
If you had a simple mastectomy, you may go home the same day or after 1-2 days.
For more complex surgeries, a longer hospital stay may be needed.
Your doctor will guide you on when it’s safe to return home.
Managing Pain and Discomfort
Tips to manage pain and discomfort are as follows:
1. Medications
Take prescribed pain relievers as directed.
Avoid aspirin unless approved by your doctor, as it can increase bleeding risk.
2. Wound Care
Keep the surgical area clean and dry.
Follow your doctor’s instructions on changing dressings.
Avoid soaking in baths until the wound heals (showering may be allowed after a few days).
3. Drain Care (If Applicable)
Empty the drain as instructed and record fluid output.
Watch for signs of infection (redness, foul-smelling discharge, fever).
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Tips
Physical Recovery and Exercises
Physical recovery and exercises after mastectomy are as follows:
1. Rest and Gradual Movement
Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities for 4-6 weeks.
Short, gentle walks help prevent blood clots and improve circulation.
2. Arm and Shoulder Exercises
After mastectomy, you may experience stiffness in the arm and shoulder. Simple exercises can help:
Deep breathing exercises: Helps with lung function.
Shoulder rolls: Prevents stiffness.
Arm raises (as tolerated): Restores mobility.
Your doctor or physiotherapist will guide you on the best exercises for your recovery.
Emotional and Mental Well-being
A mastectomy can be emotionally challenging. It’s normal to feel:
Sadness or grief over body changes.
Anxiety about cancer recurrence.
Self-consciousness about appearance.
Ways to Cope:
Talk to loved ones: Sharing feelings helps.
Join a support group: Connecting with others who’ve had similar experiences can be comforting.
Consider counselling: A therapist can help process emotions.
Explore breast reconstruction options: If desired, discuss with your surgeon.
Diet and Nutrition for Healing
Eating well speeds up recovery. Focus on:
Protein-rich foods (eggs, lean meat, beans): Helps tissue repair.
Fruits & vegetables: Boosts immunity.
Whole grains & fibre: Prevents constipation (common after surgery).
Hydration: Drink plenty of water.
Avoid:
Excess salt & processed foods: Can increase swelling.
Alcohol: Interferes with healing and medications.
When to Call the Doctor?
Contact your doctor immediately if you notice:
Fever (above 100.4°F/38°C)
Increased redness, swelling, or pus from the wound
Severe pain not relieved by medication
Sudden shortness of breath or chest pain (could indicate a blood clot)
Long-Term Care and Follow-Up
Loong-term care and follow-up after mastectomy includes:
1. Follow-Up Appointments
Regular check-ups ensure proper healing.
Discuss further treatments (like chemotherapy or radiation if needed).
2. Lymphoedema Prevention
If lymph nodes were removed, you may be at risk for lymphoedema (arm swelling).
Avoid tight clothing, heavy lifting, or blood pressure checks on the affected arm.
Gentle exercises and massage can help.
3. Prosthesis or Reconstruction Options
If you opt for breast prostheses, a fitting can be done after healing.
Reconstruction surgery can be discussed with a plastic surgeon.
Conclusion
Recovering from a mastectomy takes time, patience, and self-care. Follow your doctor’s advice, listen to your body, and don’t hesitate to seek support. If you need guidance on post-operative care or wish to consult a specialist.
Consult Top Breast Surgeon
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Tips
Dr. Jayanti Thumsi
Breast Surgeon
21 Years • MBBS,MS,Clinical Attachment
Bengaluru
Apollo Hospitals Sheshadripuram, Bengaluru
Dr. Ashwini R K
Breast Surgeon
5 Years • MBBS, MS(General Surgery), FMAS, Fellowship in Breast Cancer
Bengaluru
Apollo Cancer Centres, Electronic City, Bengaluru
Dr Nita S. Nair
Breast Surgeon
11 Years • "MBBS, MS (General Surgery), MCh (Surgical Oncology) MRCS (Ed.) "
Mumbai
Apollo Hospitals CBD Belapur, Mumbai
(75+ Patients)
Dr. Anup Dhir
Plastic Surgeon
38 Years • MBBS, MS, MCh (Plastic & Reconstructive Surg.), FECSM
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
Dr. Asha Reddy
Breast Surgeon
5 Years • MBBS, MS (General Surgeon), Masters Oncoplastic Breast surgery, (UK) Fellowship in Breast Oncology (Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai ), Fellow of the European Board of Surgery (FEBS), Fellow of American College of Surgeons (FACS )
Chennai
Apollo Hospitals Cancer Centre Nandanam, Chennai
(100+ Patients)
Consult Top Breast Surgeon
Dr. Jayanti Thumsi
Breast Surgeon
21 Years • MBBS,MS,Clinical Attachment
Bengaluru
Apollo Hospitals Sheshadripuram, Bengaluru
Dr. Ashwini R K
Breast Surgeon
5 Years • MBBS, MS(General Surgery), FMAS, Fellowship in Breast Cancer
Bengaluru
Apollo Cancer Centres, Electronic City, Bengaluru
Dr Nita S. Nair
Breast Surgeon
11 Years • "MBBS, MS (General Surgery), MCh (Surgical Oncology) MRCS (Ed.) "
Mumbai
Apollo Hospitals CBD Belapur, Mumbai
(75+ Patients)
Dr. Anup Dhir
Plastic Surgeon
38 Years • MBBS, MS, MCh (Plastic & Reconstructive Surg.), FECSM
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
Dr. Asha Reddy
Breast Surgeon
5 Years • MBBS, MS (General Surgeon), Masters Oncoplastic Breast surgery, (UK) Fellowship in Breast Oncology (Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai ), Fellow of the European Board of Surgery (FEBS), Fellow of American College of Surgeons (FACS )
Chennai
Apollo Hospitals Cancer Centre Nandanam, Chennai
(100+ Patients)
