Post-op Instructions
If you have any problems post-operatively, please contact me on the above numbers. I always prefer to know if there is a problem before you go to your GP as I am responsible for your post-operative care.
REST
Following your surgery you should go home and rest. You should sleep supported by 2-3 pillows for up to 7 days after your operation. You will leave surgery with white stockings on – these help maintain leg circulation & avoid clots in the veins of the legs. These are to remain on for 3 days after the surgery. It is important that you take it easy for the 6 weeks following surgery with no heavy lifting during this time. You are not to drive for 7 – 10 days following surgery.
TRAVEL
You must avoid any strenuous activities for 6 weeks after surgery. You can however resume light walking 2 weeks after surgery. Sexual intercourse is to be avoided for the first two weeks and nipple stimulation is not advised for 4 weeks after surgery.
BLEEDING
Post-operatively you may experience some ooze coming through your dressings. This is quite normal and usually only lasts for the first couple of days. If a breast suddenly becomes swollen and tense then you may have a haematoma, and you must let me know immediately.
WOUND AND DRAIN CARE
When you wake from surgery you will have a large adhesive dressing covering your chest and a drain on each side. These drains will remain in until your drainage is under 20ml in a 24hour period. The dressings are to be left on until your post op appointment. You are then able to shower normally & you will wear a wireless bra for another five weeks unless instructed otherwise.
PAIN RELIEF
I will prescribe some form of pain relief to assist with the discomfort. If you do run out of these Panadeine from the pharmacy should be sufficient. It is common to experience bloating & constipation post-operatively – if required use Coloxyl & Senna. Aspirin & Ibuprofen should be avoided, unless you are prescribed it, as it prolongs the time you will bleed for.
SCAR MANAGEMENT
Taping the suture line for 3 months will help the scar to mature and not stretch so much. Micropore is the most suitable type as it only needs to be changed once a week and can be worn in the shower. It is important you return to me if the scars begin to thicken up, become red, lumpy, or raised as you may need to use silicone gel which is effective in the management of these types of scars.
INFECTION
If you experience increased pain, widespread redness or an offensive discharge coming from the wound you are best to contact me as you may have a wound infection and require antibiotics.
Appointment at Dr Richardson’s rooms Suite 9, Level 1, 33 Racecourse Rd, Hamilton / Northlakes Day Consulting Suites