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Now that you are ready to return home after surgery, you'll want to avoid complications, such as infection. Check both the arm affected by surgery and the incision site twice each day. If an area looks red, feels warm, or is unusually hard or swollen, notify your health care provider immediately. Also notify him/her if you see drainage (fluid) from the incision or if you develop a fever.
Here are a few simple guidelines to follow during your recovery:
- Don't put heavy lotions, creams, or medications on or near the incision site (unless your health care provider tells you to do so).
- If you cut or scratch your affected arm, immediately wash the area with soap and warm water. Apply an antiseptic cream or ointment, if needed.
- Don't pick or cut cuticles or hangnails on you affected hand. use lanolin hand cream to keep cuticles soft.
- Don't carry your pocketbook (purse) in the crook of your affected arm. To protect this arm, get into the habit of using your other arm to carry your pocketbook or articles weighing more than 10 pounds (4.5 kg).
- If you wear a wristwatch or other jewelry on the affected arm, make sure it fits loosely. Wear clothing with loose-fitting sleeves.
- If you sew, use a thimble to avoid pinpricks.
- Avoid exposing your affected side to excessive sunlight.
- Wear heavy gloves when gardening.
- Apply protective insect repellent before going to areas with biting insects.
- Don't let anyone give you an injection or vaccinate you in your affected arm -- unless specifically recommended by a health care provider who knows you've had breast surgery.
- Similarly, make sure you blood pressure is taken on your unaffected arm. And, if you must give blood samples for any reason, give them from your unaffected arm.
- Every other day, record the amount of swelling (if any) in your affected arm. To do this, measure the circumference of your upper arm, about 5 inches (12.7 cm) above your elbow. Then, measure the circumference of the largest part of your forearm, about 5 inches (12.7 cm) above your wrist. Record the findings. If you detect swelling, use a few pillows to elevate your arm above heart level. If the swelling doesn't go away, notify your health care provider.
- Regularly perform strengthening exercises, as instructed.
MOONDRAGON'S BREAST CANCER LINKS
Learning About Breast Cancer
Learning About Breast Surgery
Understanding Breast Tumor Staging
Familiarizing Yourself With Diagnostic Techniques
Understanding Fibrocystic Breast Disease
Guide To Types of Mastectomies
Patient Preparation For A Mastectomy
Mastectomy Care After Surgery
Learning About Breast Reconstruction
Selecting A Prosthesis
Applying An Arm Sleeve and Gauntlet
Preventing Complications After A Mastectomy
MoonDragon's Obgyn Information: Breast Cancer
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