Post-Surgery Care for Breast Surgery: Key Questions Answered

Postoperative care issues following breast surgery?

Dear Dr.
Lin,
Thank you very much for your detailed response on August 15th.
My mother and our family feel more informed about the surgery, and we are more at ease after reading your reply.
Thank you.
My mother (56 years old) underwent a breast fine needle localization biopsy two weeks ago, and the test results confirmed benign breast calcifications.
I would like to ask the following questions:
1.
My mother still has other calcifications in her breast.
Is there a chance that these areas could become malignant in the future?
2.
How long does it typically take for someone to fully recover after surgery? (The incision is on the left breast and is approximately 6 cm long.)
3.
My mother still feels a pulling pain at the surgical site.
Is this normal?
4.
Since the surgical sutures are made of absorbable material, does she need to change the dressings regularly until the incision is completely healed?
I apologize for asking so many questions, and I sincerely appreciate your patient responses.
Thank you.
Best regards,
Juan Juan
August 31, 2006

Lin, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/08/31

Dr. Lin Kecheng reply Surgery

Dear Miss Juanjuan,
I apologize for the delay in my response as I attended the International Breast Medicine Conference in Taipei this past Saturday and Sunday.
I hope this has not caused you any concern.
I am pleased to hear that your biopsy results indicate benign calcified tissue; however, I recommend continuing annual follow-ups.

1.
There are still calcifications present in the breast, and it is difficult to predict whether they may become malignant in the future, as calcifications are one of the criteria for diagnosing breast cancer.
Therefore, I suggest that you have regular follow-up examinations with your original diagnosing and surgical physician, as the initial mammogram images can provide a basis for future comparisons to screen for early-stage breast cancer.
2.
The recovery time after surgery can vary based on individual factors, the size of the incision, and the degree of wound healing.
Generally, complete recovery should occur within a month.
3.
It is normal to experience some pulling or aching at the surgical site, unless there are signs of redness, swelling, or localized warmth, in which case you should seek medical attention.
If you have a fuller breast and experience movement while walking, I recommend wearing a supportive bra to help alleviate discomfort.
4.
Typically, you should keep the area dry and change the dressing or apply antibiotic ointment every three days.
Wishing you continued good health.

Reply Date: 2006/08/31

More Info

Post-surgery care for breast surgery is a critical aspect of recovery, and it's understandable that you have several questions regarding your mother's recent procedure. Let's address each of your concerns based on the information provided and general medical knowledge.

1. Risk of Malignancy from Remaining Calcifications: The presence of additional calcifications in the breast does raise concerns, as calcifications can sometimes be associated with breast cancer. However, not all calcifications are malignant. The risk of these remaining calcifications becoming cancerous depends on their characteristics, which can be assessed through imaging studies like mammograms or ultrasounds. It is essential for your mother to have regular follow-up appointments with her healthcare provider, who can monitor these calcifications and recommend further action if necessary. Annual mammograms or other imaging studies may be advised to ensure any changes are detected early.

2. Recovery Time: Recovery time after breast surgery can vary significantly from person to person. Generally, most patients can expect to feel significantly better within a few weeks, but complete recovery, including the healing of the incision, can take about 4 to 6 weeks. Factors that influence recovery include the extent of the surgery, the individual's overall health, and adherence to post-operative care instructions. It's important to follow the surgeon's recommendations regarding activity levels and wound care during this period.

3. Post-operative Pain: Experiencing some pain or discomfort at the surgical site is normal, especially in the first few weeks after surgery. This can manifest as a pulling or aching sensation, which is often due to the healing process and the body's response to surgery. However, if the pain worsens, or if there are signs of infection (such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge), it is crucial to contact the healthcare provider. Pain management strategies, including prescribed medications or over-the-counter pain relievers, can help alleviate discomfort.

4. Wound Care: Proper wound care is vital for preventing infection and ensuring optimal healing. If your mother's incision was closed with absorbable sutures (often referred to as "meat thread"), these typically do not require removal, as they dissolve on their own. However, it is still essential to keep the area clean and dry. The healthcare provider may recommend changing dressings regularly, especially if they become wet or soiled. Following the surgeon's specific instructions regarding wound care is crucial, and if there are any uncertainties, it’s best to consult the healthcare provider for guidance.

In addition to addressing these specific questions, it’s also beneficial to consider the overall emotional and psychological well-being of your mother during her recovery. Surgery can be a significant event, and feelings of anxiety or depression are not uncommon. Encouraging open communication about her feelings and providing support can be incredibly helpful.

Lastly, maintaining a healthy diet rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals can support healing. Foods such as lean meats, fish, eggs, dairy products, fruits, and vegetables should be included in her diet. Staying hydrated is also essential for recovery.

In conclusion, while your mother’s situation may seem daunting, with proper care, regular follow-ups, and support, she can navigate her recovery successfully. Always feel free to reach out to her healthcare team with any concerns or questions that arise during her recovery process.

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