Getting Back to Daily Activities
Is there anything I cannot do after surgery?
- DO NOT drive a motor vehicle until you have full movement back in your arm and shoulder.
- DO NOT drive while you are taking your prescription pain medication because the medication may affect your ability to drive safely.
- DO NOT drink alcohol while taking prescription pain medication because taking both together can be dangerous.
- DO NOT lift anything weighing more than 10 pounds for 4 weeks after the surgery because it may damage the incision.
Will I feel tired during my recovery?
- It is normal to feel tired for up to 2 months after your surgery.
- This may make it hard for you to do all of your regular activities.
- Learning ways to best use your energy will help you to complete activities and get through the day:
- Listen to what your body tells you.
- Set small goals for the day and don't worry if you don't get everything done.
- Take rest breaks often.
For 4 to 6 weeks after surgery:
- DO NOT do any activity that involves heavy lifting, pushing, pulling or repetition with your arm like vacuuming, ironing, carrying heavy grocery bags or laundry baskets.
- DO NOT lift young children or small pets with your arm.
When can I wash?
- You can shower 48 hours after surgery.
- Remove the dressing around the drain when you shower.
- Place the drain over your shoulder while showering or attach it to a lanyard.
- Gently pat dry using a clean towel.
- Apply a clean dry dressing after you are dry.
- DO NOT use any soaps, creams or lotions over the area of surgery unless you havebeen told to do so by your doctor or nurse.
- DO NOT soak in a bathtub and DO NOT go swimming in a pool, lake or ocean until at least 4 weeks after the surgery.
What type of clothing can I wear?
- Wear comfortable, soft, loose-fitting clothing.
- Shirts that button or zipper at the front are the easiest to wear after surgery.
- Your drain can be attached to the bottom of your shirt or waistband of your pants with a safety pin.
How should I sleep?
- Sleep in a position that is comfortable for you.
- Consider placing your arm on a pillow when you are sleeping.
What should I eat after surgery?
- You can return to your regular diet after surgery.
- Adding more fibre to your diet will help to prevent constipation.
- A dietitian is available to answer your questions about food and nutrition.
- Please call 416-480-4623 to make an appointment.
When can I go back to work?
- Talk to your surgeon about returning to work. You may require a referral to the occupational therapist or physiotherapist.
- As a general rule, you will likely need to wait 8 weeks before you return to work after having an axillary node dissection. If you need more treatment, the time away from work may be longer.
- You may be able to return to work sooner if your job does not involve heavy lifting.
