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 the things you need to do in your day.
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 heavy lifting, pushing, pulling or repetition with your affected arm(s) such as vacuuming, ironing, carrying heavy grocery bags or laundry baskets.
DO NOT lift young children or small pets with your affected arm(s).
When can I wash?
You can shower 48 hours after surgery. DO NOT soak in a bathtub and DO NOT go swimming in a pool, lake or ocean.
Remove the dressing around the drain when you shower.
Place the drain(s) over your shoulder while showering or attach to a lanyard.
DO NOT use any soaps, creams or lotions over the incision unless directed to do so by your doctor or nurse.
Gently pat the area dry using a clean towel.
Apply a clean dressing around the drain after you are dry.
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.
When you feel comfortable, you can start wearing a bra.
Your drain can be attached to the bottom of your shirt or waistband of your pants with a safety pin.
Some women consider using a mastectomy camisole after surgery that has special pockets to hold the drain(s).
You will be given a list of places where you can buy this clothing.
How should I sleep?
Sleep in a position that is comfortable for you.
Consider placing your arm on a pillow when you are sleeping.
Avoid sleeping directly on your chest.
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 drive?
Following surgery, arrange for a ride home.
DO NOT drive when taking your pain medication because it may cause you to become sleepy.
You can return to driving when you are pain free and have full normal movement of your arm(s).
When can I do my regular exercise?
Being active helps with your recovery from surgery.
You can start or return to your exercise program after speaking with your surgeon during your follow-up appointment.
Start back slowly and gradually.
You can start exercising with light weights (2 pounds) about 4 to 6 weeks after surgery.
You can do exercises that speed up your heart, like walking, as soon as you feel ready.
When can I go back to work?
Talk to your surgeon – 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 a mastectomy. If you are undergoing additional treatments, the time away from work may be longer.
Some patients may be able to return to work sooner if their job does not involve heavy lifting.
