American Society of Plastic Surgeons
For Medical Professionals
 

Breast Reconstruction

Know Your Post-Mastectomy Options

Breast reconstruction utilizes several plastic surgery techniques to restore a breast to near normal shape and appearance following mastectomy.

What should I expect during my breast reconstruction recovery?

Following your breast reconstruction surgery for flap techniques and/or the insertion of a breast implant, gauze or bandages may be applied to your incisions.

An elastic bandage or support bra will minimize swelling and support the reconstructed breast. A small, thin tube may be temporarily placed under the skin to drain any excess blood or fluid.

You will be given specific instructions that may include: How to care for your surgical site(s) following surgery, medications to apply or take orally to aid healing and reduce the risk of infection, specific concerns to look for at the surgical site or in your general health and when to follow up with your plastic surgeon.

Be sure to ask your plastic surgeon specific questions about what you can expect during your individual recovery period.

  • Where will I be taken after my surgery is complete?
  • What medication will I be given or prescribed after surgery?
  • Will I have dressings/bandages after surgery? When will they be removed?
  • Will there be drains? For how long?
  • When can I bathe or shower?
  • When can I resume normal activity and exercise?
  • When do I return for follow-up care?

Healing will continue for several weeks while swelling decreases and breast shape/position improve. Continue to follow your plastic surgeon's instructions and attend follow-up visits as scheduled.



Logo

Surgeons In Your Area

Ergun Kocak Headshot

Ergun Kocak

U.S. Board Certified
Suite A, 1080 Beecher Crossing N
Gahanna, OH 43230
United States

16146864083

Brian Dorner Headshot

Brian Dorner

U.S. Board Certified
4930 Bradenton Ave.
Dublin, OH 43017
United States

1614336-9000

Clara Lee Headshot

Clara Lee

U.S. Board Certified
Suite 2100, 915 Olentangy River Rd.
Columbus, OH 43212
United States

16142933748

Roman Skoracki Headshot

Roman Skoracki

Canada Board Certified
Suite 2100, 915 Olentangy River Road
Columbus, OH 43212
United States

16142939885

Timothy Treece Headshot

Timothy Treece

U.S. Board Certified
5005 Arlington Centre Blvd.
Columbus, OH 43220
United States

1614246-6900

Mark Wells Headshot

Mark Wells

U.S. Board Certified
Suite 600, 285 East State Street
Columbus, OH 43215
United States

1614566-9496

Jason Lichten Headshot

Jason Lichten

U.S. Board Certified
Suite 130, 85 McNaughten Road
Columbus, OH 43213
United States

17406535064

Pankaj Tiwari Headshot

Pankaj Tiwari

U.S. Board Certified
Suite A, 1080 Beecher Crossing N
Gahanna, OH 43230
United States

18556876227

Logo

Patient Care Center