After breast surgery, you need to learn how to take care of yourself at home

Breast surgery is one of the common methods for treating breast diseases, including breast cancer and breast hyperplasia. Although surgery is an important treatment method, the patient's postoperative rehabilitation and home care are equally important. Proper home care can help patients recover faster, reduce postoperative discomfort, and return to normal life. This article will introduce the home care guidelines after breast surgery, including wound care, pain management, lymphedema management, dietary advice, medication use, activities and exercise, etc., to help patients better cope with various challenges after surgery.

1. Basic overview of breast surgery

Breast surgery is a common procedure to treat breast-related diseases, including but not limited to breast cancer, breast hyperplasia, etc. Breast surgery can be performed in different types depending on the patient's specific condition and the doctor's advice.

① Type of surgery

(1) Mastectomy (full or partial mastectomy): A common surgical procedure when a malignant tumor is found in the breast tissue. The cancer is treated by removing all or part of the breast tissue.

(2) Breast-conserving surgery (partial mastectomy): When the tumor is small and discovered early, the doctor may choose to retain part of the breast tissue and remove the tumor to preserve the appearance and function of the breast.

② Symptoms of discomfort

(1) Pain: Pain of varying degrees may occur after surgery, including pain at the surgical site and wound pain. (2) Swelling: Swelling of the surgical area may occur due to tissue damage at the surgical incision and obstruction of lymphatic drainage after surgery. (3) Lymphedema: Some breast surgeries involve the removal of lymph nodes, which may cause swelling caused by the accumulation of lymphatic fluid after surgery. (4) Sensory changes: Sensory changes in the nipple or breast area may occur after surgery, such as numbness, tingling, etc. (5) Scar formation: Breast surgery will leave scars, and scar formation and healing is a common phenomenon after surgery.

2. Home care after breast surgery

①Wound care

Wound care is essential. Keeping the wound clean and dry is key. Gently wash the surgical area with warm water and non-irritating soap every day, and then gently dry it with clean gauze. Regular dressing changes are necessary, changing it every day or every two days according to the doctor's advice. In addition, avoid using irritating chemicals or drugs directly in contact with the wound, such as alcohol, iodine tincture, etc., to avoid irritation or allergic reactions. It is also important to maintain rest and moderate activity. Avoid high-intensity activities such as strenuous exercise or weightlifting, but appropriate light activities can help promote blood circulation and wound healing.

②Pain management

Postoperative pain is one of the common discomfort symptoms for breast surgery patients. Taking painkillers on time is the key to controlling pain, and patients should strictly follow the dosage and usage of the medicine prescribed by the doctor. In addition, finding a comfortable position can help relieve pain. Using cushions or pillows to support the surgical area and avoid compressing the wound can help relieve pain. In addition, applying ice packs or hot compresses to the painful area after surgery can help relieve pain. Ice packs can reduce swelling and pain, while hot compresses can promote blood circulation and relieve pain. Finally, report pain to the doctor regularly. Dealing with pain problems in a timely manner can help improve patient comfort and recovery speed.

③Lymphedema management

Lymphedema is a common complication after breast surgery because the surgery may involve the removal of lymph nodes, which can block the drainage of lymph fluid and cause swelling. The management of lymphedema is essential for the patient's recovery. First, regular gentle lymphatic drainage massage can help promote the flow of lymph fluid and reduce swelling. Patients can learn simple massage techniques and perform them under the guidance of a doctor. Secondly, wearing compression garments recommended by a doctor is also an effective means of lymphedema management. These professionally designed garments can provide moderate pressure, help prevent lymph fluid accumulation, and slow the development of swelling. Patients should ensure that the compression garments fit comfortably and follow the doctor's advice to wear them correctly.

④Dietary recommendations

A proper diet plays an important role in recovery after breast surgery. First, adequate intake of high protein is the key to promoting wound healing and relieving lymphedema. Protein-rich foods such as fish, lean meat, beans, and nuts should be an important part of the patient's diet. Secondly, maintaining a moderate water intake is essential for the management of lymphedema. Sufficient water can promote the excretion of waste in the body and help reduce swelling. Patients should maintain adequate water intake every day, but avoid excessive intake of salty foods to prevent water retention in the body.

⑤ Drug use

First of all, the use of painkillers according to the doctor's prescription and recommendations is the key to controlling postoperative pain. These drugs usually include analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs, and patients should strictly follow the doctor's dosage and usage to ensure that the pain is effectively controlled. Secondly, the use of antibiotics is also a routine measure after breast surgery to prevent postoperative infection. Patients should strictly follow the antibiotic prescription issued by the doctor to complete the entire course of treatment, and do not interrupt or change the medication regimen at will. In addition, if any adverse drug reactions or allergic symptoms occur, patients should inform the doctor immediately and stop using it.

⑥Activities and sports

In the early postoperative period, patients should avoid high-intensity activities such as strenuous exercise and weightlifting to avoid aggravating pain and discomfort in the surgical area. However, moderate light activities can help promote blood circulation and accelerate wound healing. In addition, according to the doctor's advice, patients should gradually increase their daily activities. This includes gradually increasing the time and distance of walking, and gradually resuming light activities in daily life, such as doing housework, shopping, etc. Patients should pay attention to the comfort of the wound area during activities and avoid maintaining a posture for a long time. Proper rest and changing posture can help relieve discomfort.

Author: Yu Dequn Chengdu East New District Second People's Hospital