Considering pre-pectoral breast reconstruction? Dr. Anke Ott Young, Dr. Mary Pronovost, and Dr. Christine Hodyl in Garden City, NY, and Trumbull, CT share information about the procedure and recovery below.
Recovering From Pre-Pectoral Breast Reconstruction
Needing breast reconstruction surgery can be an emotional process, in addition to undergoing the physical procedure. Fortunately, pre-pectoral breast reconstruction provides an option that tends to create less pain since it does not require the chest muscle to be separated from the chest wall. Even with this benefit, there is a bit of recovery to manage. In this guide, Dr. Young of Garden City, NY, and Trumbull, CT provides insight into the recovery period.
Immediately After Surgery
Your procedure should take one to two hours. Your breasts will likely feel tight and be sensitive to touch. Feeling itchy or a warm sensation is not unusual. You will be sent home with aftercare instructions and oral pain medication.
The Recovery Period
The anesthesia will slowly wear off, at which point you will likely feel pain. The oral medication you are prescribed should take care of this. Unlike other types of breast reconstruction surgery, most patients only need pain medication for the first couple of days. You might also find it difficult to raise your arms for several days or longer.
For the first month, you might experience bruising and swelling of the surgical site. Typically, this disappears within a month. You might also feel tired for several days and should give yourself plenty of time to rest.
One major concern after any procedure is the potential for blood clots. To prevent them, it’s important that you get up and walk around every few hours for at least a few minutes at a time.
Sports bras are typically more comfortable after breast surgery. They can also encourage more blood flow and minimize swelling.
Everyone heals at a different pace. However, one benefit of choosing the pre-pectoral form of breast surgery is that patients typically heal faster. In most cases, you can return to light activity within two days to a week. Most patients can get fully back to their lives within one month.
For more information about pre-pectoral breast reconstruction, schedule an appointment with Dr. Ott Young, Dr. Pronovost, and Dr. Hodyl in Garden City, NY, and Trumbull, CT by calling (516) 742-3404 today.