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1 |
A surgical or soft bra must be worn for the following 2 weeks both day and night. Please do not remove it. |
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2 |
Your surgeon will give you specific postoperative instructions on how to care for yourself according to the type of breast reconstruction procedure that has been performed. |
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3 |
Drainage tubes will be removed usually after 3-8 days following surgery. |
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4 |
Sutures are removed within the first two weeks following the surgery. |
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5 |
You must rest at home for the first 48 hours following surgery. |
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6 |
You will be given a prescription with antibiotics and pain medication to minimize any discomfort. |
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7 |
Inform immediately to your physician if you develop an unexpected reaction to the prescribed medication. |
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8 |
You must make arrangements for a responsible adult friend or family member to take you home and take care of you during your convalescence. |
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9 |
You have to sleep on your back and keep your head elevated. If you have back or buttocks wounds, you will be given specific instructions for wound care. |
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10 |
Avoid taking any medication that has not been prescribed by your doctor, especially aspirin (acetyl salicylic acid) or aspirin-like products (Ibuprofen, Advil, Motrin or Aleve). These medicines have anticoagulant adverse effects and may increase the risk of bleeding or scarring complications. |
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11 |
You should expect some bruising and swelling as a natural part of reconstruction surgery. This condition will fade within days after surgery. |
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12 |
Avoid any activity for 2 weeks after surgery. |
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13 |
Do not remove your bandages or surgical bra. |
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14 |
Do not raise your arms above your head for two weeks. |
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15 |
You will not be able to drive a vehicle for the following weeks. |
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Lifting heavy things, animals or children may affect the area of surgery. You must avoid any activity that increases risk of hitting. |
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17 |
Do not allow sutures or dressing to get wet until they have been removed. |
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18 |
You must avoid shaving the axillary area for 2 weeks after surgery |
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19 |
Do not lie face down for the first 4 weeks or the time indicated by your physician. |
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20 |
Protect yourself from sun exposure for the following 2 months. |
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21 |
Ask your doctor when you may return to normal activities. Most people resume normal activities after 4 weeks. |
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22 |
Exercise can be resumed 3 months after surgery. |
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23 |
Patient must return to the office for general check up as indicated by the physician. |
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24 |
You should keep examining your breasts as usually. |
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25 |
It is important to understand that complete healing and final results after breast reconstruction surgery may take from several months to one year. |
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26 |
You should see your oncologist for breast exam as usually. |
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27 |
Please inform Dr. Nieto if you present heavy bleeding from the wound, severe pain or chest pressure, high fever (more than 38 degrees), significant redness or severe discomfort. |
