DO NOT drive a motor vehicle for 24 hours after surgery because it may be dangerous with all the medications from the anesthetic.
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.
DO NOT do repetitive arm or leg exercises for 3 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 may have a shower 48 hours after surgery.
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.
DO NOT scrub the incision.
DO NOT use soaps, creams or lotions over the incision until it is fully healed.
Gently pat dry using a clean towel.
If you have a drain:
Plan to have your shower just before seeing your nurse in your home.
You do not have to remove or cover the dressing when you shower. Your nurse will remove the wet dressing and put on a clean, dry dressing.
Place the drain over your shoulder while showering or attach to a lanyard.
However, if you see the nurse at a clinic, then take off the dressing before you shower. Apply a clean dry dressing after you are dry.
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 start my normal activities?
You can do most of your normal activities 1 to 2 days after surgery, except for heavy lifting or repetitive movements with the arm or leg that is on the same side as the surgery.
You can go back to your normal diet when you feel hungry. There is no special diet after surgery.
When can I go back to work?
You can go back to work 8 weeks after a wide local excision surgery that included a sentinel lymph node biopsy.
Some patients are able to return to work sooner if their job does not involve heavy lifting.
