Post-Lumpectomy Care Guide

A lumpectomy is a surgical procedure to remove a small portion of cancerous breast tissue or tissue suspected to be cancerous. Also known as a partial mastectomy or breast-conserving surgery, a lumpectomy is best for people with breast cancer who only have a single, small area of tissue that needs removal.

While a lumpectomy is less invasive than a mastectomy, it still has a weeklong recovery period. During this time, taking proper care of the incision, avoiding strenuous physical activity, and finding a comfortable sleep position is fundamental for healing.

This article explains everything you need to know about post-lumpectomy care.

Post-Lumpectomy Care Instructions

Proper post-lumpectomy care is vital for recovery and healing. Measures include keeping the wound clean, taking medication on a proper schedule, sleeping in the correct position, and more. Below are the basics you need to know about recovering from a lumpectomy.

Healing the Wound

After a lumpectomy, there will be an incision from the breast tissue removal that must heal. Taking care of this incision is imperative for both healing and avoiding infection.

Incision care includes:

• Keeping the area clean: Use an antibacterial soap, avoid getting the dressing wet, and change bandages as instructed.
• Changing the dressing: Changing the dressing helps keep the area clean and prevents infection. Your healthcare provider will have specific information about how often you must change your dressing.
• Watching for signs of infection: Infection is possible post-op, so make sure you look for signs of infection; this includes pus or drainage, a bad smell, redness, tenderness, pain, and an incision that is hot to the touch.
• Being gentle with the incision: This includes everything from no heavy lifting to no scrubbing at the incision to avoid causing damage to the surgical site.
• Take care of surgical drains if applicable: Sometimes, surgical drains may be needed post-lumpectomy. If a surgical drain is necessary, you must empty the fluid a few times daily for around one to two weeks.

Talk to your healthcare provider about the specifics of your recovery and about any concerns you may have.

Medication Schedule

While a lumpectomy is less-invasive than a mastectomy, some pain is still expected post-op. Pain relievers, such as Tylenol (acetaminophen), are recommended to help manage the pain.

Adults can take 650 to 1,000 milligrams (mg) every four to six hours as needed but should not exceed 10 capsules or tablets within 24 hours unless directed by their healthcare team.

Sleep Positions

Plan to sleep on your back to avoid putting pressure on the surgical area. Proper sleep is important for recovery; some general tips for deeper sleep include:

• Keep your bedroom cool.
• Avoid caffeine before bedtime.
• Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day.

Physical Limitations

For one to two weeks following a lumpectomy, you should avoid heavy lifting, jogging, or any other physical activity that could cause pain in the surgical area.

Arm exercises, however, can be helpful during recovery and can help you regain movement. Clear these exercises with your healthcare provider before doing them at home.

When you are cleared to start working out again, go slowly. Stop exercising and contact your healthcare provider immediately if any of the following occur:

• You start experiencing balance issues.
• You become weaker.
• Your pain worsens.
• You notice new heaviness, aching, tightness, or any other unusual sensations in your arm.
• You see swelling.
• You begin having headaches, dizziness, blurred vision, new numbness, or tingling in your arms or chest.

What to Wear

After your lumpectomy, a soft bra with solid support, such as a sports or compression bra, may be recommended. Speak with your healthcare provider to determine options that work for you.

Time Off Work and Personal Responsibilities

Depending on the extent of your lumpectomy, you may need help around the house, assistance with kids if you have them, and time off work. Be sure to plan ahead and arrange childcare and time for healing and recovery.

Scar Tissue Around Lumpectomy Incision

After a lumpectomy, a scar or dimpling where the tissue was removed may form, as well as a hard or firm surgical scar and lymphedema (type of swelling).

To reduce scarring from a lumpectomy, the following steps can be taken:

• Avoid infection by practicing proper wound care.
• Stay out of the sun.
• Perform daily massages on the scar tissue (only after the wound has healed).
• Consider chemical peels, laser therapy, or topical bleaching (only after the wound has healed).

Summary

A lumpectomy is a surgical procedure to remove a small portion of breast tissue that is cancerous or suspected to be cancerous. For most people who undergo a lumpectomy, recovery time is around one week.

During this period, taking proper care of your incision, wearing appropriate clothing, taking medications as prescribed, sleeping on your back, and taking time off work and personal responsibilities are essential. If there are signs of infection, contact your healthcare provider immediately.