What is the typical recovery for a lumpectomy or mastectomy? *Note- breast surgery pain is low compared to orthopedic or abdominal surgeries
Lumpectomy alone recovery is typically around 1- 2 weeks to return to baseline
Lumpectomy with sentinel node biopsy closer to 2 week recovery with lymph node being more painful, longer to heal surgical site
Mastectomy takes typically 4-6 weeks for full recovery of most patients.
Will I have any sort of drain?
Lumpectomy does not require a drain. You may most likely have a drain if you have a mastectomy or an axillary lymph node dissection. If having combined surgery with plastic surgery for reduction, they may or may not place a surgical drain if they deem it is needed.
How often do I need to empty the drain?
Usually twice a day is fine and record the amount emptied. Empty more often, if needed. Write down the number is CC’s or mL’s that you get from pooring the drainage into the cup provided by the nurses.
How long will I stay in the hospital?
With a lumpectomy or mastectomy, you will be considered an outpatient and be able to return home the same day. We only keep you overnight in the hospital if any medical concerns during the surgery that require an additional 1 night of observation.
How soon can I drive?
Most patients who undergo a lumpectomy can drive and work soon after pain is well controlled and are NOT taking any narcotics (most breast surgery pain is easily managed with Tylenol). However if patient undergoing mastectomy or combination reduction, sudden movements that may be required for certain traffic maneuvers can open up your scars- so recommended 2 week hiatus from driving in those settings.
When can I exercise?
You can begin light exercise such as walking after you get home from surgery. 1 week after surgery can do leg-focused workouts but no upper body, 2 weeks after surgery can do light arm workouts. Avoid cardio workouts or any bouncing for 4 weeks post operatively. You should stay out of hot-tubs, pools or the ocean for 6 weeks following any breast surgery due to high-risk of infection.
What is my post-surgery imaging surveillance like?
If you had breast cancer treated at the time of your surgery, you will likely go to an every 6 month imaging surveillance program, alternating diagnostic mammograms with MRI’s, if had mastectomy we also surveil you every 6-months for 2 years following your surgery, then transition to yearly imaging, unless you have a genetic mutation that warrants continued 6-month monitoring.