{"id":581,"date":"2018-09-25T13:08:53","date_gmt":"2018-09-25T13:08:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/msapc.managed3.brouser.net\/general-surgery\/?p=581"},"modified":"2021-07-19T02:08:27","modified_gmt":"2021-07-19T02:08:27","slug":"understanding-breast-procedure-expect-surgery","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/msapc.com\/general-surgery\/blog\/2018\/09\/25\/understanding-breast-procedure-expect-surgery\/","title":{"rendered":"Understanding Your Breast Procedure"},"content":{"rendered":"

At MSA, we understand the worry and anxiety that comes with undergoing a breast procedure. While every surgery is different, one thing is for sure – our experienced breast and plastic surgeon team will be with you every step of the way.<\/span><\/p>\n

Our surgeons perform a variety of<\/span> breast procedures<\/span><\/a> such as biopsies, lumpectomies, and mastectomies, as well as breast reconstruction. We want you to know that our team of health professionals will put your needs first and make it a priority to thoroughly explain your options to ensure you are comfortable with your decisions. <\/span><\/p>\n

Before any procedure, we always take time to meet with our patients and educate them on what\u2019s to come before, during, and after surgery. Oftentimes, knowing this information can ease your stress. Take a minute and read on to learn what you can expect for your upcoming breast procedure, as well as a few helpful tips for recovery.<\/span><\/p>\n

Before Breast Surgery<\/b><\/p>\n

Before your surgery, we\u2019ll sit down to review your medical history and discuss your operation as well as your wishes regarding the procedure. Everyone has different wishes and our goal is to be accommodating to your specific needs. This is the time to ask questions! <\/span><\/p>\n

To help prep for surgery, we\u2019ll ask that you refrain from eating or drinking for 8-12 hours prior to your procedure, and make an arrangement for someone to take you home. It\u2019s important to plan for assistance beforehand because you will likely be sore and uncomfortable the hours and days following your procedure. Whether it\u2019s a friend or family member, having someone to offer a helping hand will take a huge weight off your shoulders and allow you to get the rest you need for a speedy and healthy recovery.<\/span><\/p>\n

After Breast Surgery<\/b><\/p>\n

Depending upon your breast procedure, recovery varies from person to person. If you\u2019ve undergone a biopsy, ice and anti-inflammatory medication will help tremendously with any pain or discomfort. <\/span><\/p>\n

For a lumpectomy or mastectomy, you\u2019ll be wheeled into a recovery room where your vital signs will be checked and monitored. The level of procedure, along with a number of other factors, will determine when you\u2019re able to be released from the hospital. For biopsies, and some lumpectomies, staying in the hospital is not required, but a more complicated procedure may require you to stay a few extra days to ensure your body is healing properly and you feel comfortable enough to head home.<\/span><\/p>\n

Directly following a breast procedure, you\u2019ll have a dressing over your surgery site, and a possible drain tube depending upon the procedure. You can expect some pain and discomfort, numbness, and a pinching sensation under your arm is not uncommon. <\/span><\/p>\n

To ease these symptoms, you\u2019ll be given prescriptions for pain medications and possible antibiotics. We also make sure to send you home with detailed at-home instructions so you\u2019re educated and aware of how to take care of your body following the procedure. These instructions will include notes such as:<\/span><\/p>\n