CommunitiesBreast CancerWhat Should I Know About Mastectomy Recovery?

What Should I Know About Mastectomy Recovery?

DB

Community Member

8 months ago

I a recently diagnosed and 65. I will be having a bilateral mastectomy. Probably going with reconstruction. Wondering about the recovery experience. What do I need to know? What would you wish you knew or sis differently.?

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accepted answer

Accepted Answer

Recovery from bilateral mastectomy with reconstruction involves several weeks of healing, with initial restrictions on lifting and arm movement while drains are in place. Many in this community find it helpful to prepare comfortable clothing that opens in front, arrange help with daily tasks, and focus on following post-surgery care instructions closely - fellow members here often share valuable firsthand experiences about what made their recovery smoother.

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DT

Community Member

6 months ago

I bought a bunch of at home supplies that I really needed. No one on my cancer team told me about them but I saw it on a YouTube video. I would be happy to email to you or snap a photo. I made a long list. I have it on Amazon and could email it to you if you want to give me your email.

1
DT

Community Member

6 months ago

I had 3 drains because the 3rd one was for the lymph nodes removed. That is the worst part - the drains- and I had them for 3 weeks. Otherwise I think normal time might be 2 weeks. My husband was kind enough to empty and chart them for me. It helps a lot.

1
CA

Community Member

2 months ago

Recovery from bilateral mastectomy with reconstruction involves several weeks of healing, with initial restrictions on lifting and arm movement while drains are in place. Many in this community find it helpful to prepare comfortable clothing that opens in front, arrange help with daily tasks, and focus on following post-surgery care instructions closely - fellow members here often share valuable firsthand experiences about what made their recovery smoother.

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