Your wound is covered by a dressing we call surgical tape. You must leave the surgical tape on, until it starts to detach. This usually happens within a few days to a couple of weeks after the surgery.
Hygiene after your surgery
You can shower 24 hours after your surgery. It will not harm the surgical tape dressing. You must however wait until your wound is healed and the scabs have fallen off before you may use a bathtub or any kind of swimming pool. Both poses an increased risk for infection.
If you have had a lumpectomy we recommend that your wear a bra day and night for about 14 days after the surgery. Your breast and the skin around the scar may pull at the scar tissue. The bra will reduce the pull and reduce pain.You should not expose the scar to direct sunlight for about a year after the surgery. You can protect the scar by covering it with clothing, sunblock or a dressing.
Possible complications following surgery
Hematoma
As with any other type of surgery, there is a small risk of a hematoma forming within the first hours following your surgery. In rare cases it is necessary to undergo an extra surgery to stop the bleeding. The typical signs of hematoma are:
- Increased swelling of the scar and surrounding area
- Increased pain
- General discomfort
If you experience some of these symptoms within the first 24 hours, you need to call the ward at 38 67 76 37 between 07:30 - 21:00.
After 21.00 and during weekends and bank holidays you may call 1813.
It is however completely normal to bleed a little after a surgery. You may therefore experience some bruising in the operated area in the days following your surgery.
Infection
As with any types of surgery, there is a small risk of infection. The typical signs of infection are:
If you experience some of these symptoms you need to call the ward. Contact our nurses concerning infection at this number 38 67 76 33 between 08:00 - 15:00.
Fluid
You may experience the formation of fluid behind the scar, also called seroma. This can feel uncomfortable, it is however completely harmless and it is a natural part of the healingprocess.
If you have undergone mastectomi and/or removal of lymph nodes in armpit, it is likely that you will need a needle aspiration to remove any excess fluid.
In the Outpatient Department a nurse will assess and possibly aspirate the fluid with a needle. It is normal to have this procedure done over the following weeks.
If you experience the formation of fluid behind the scar, you need to call the ward. At weekdays, this telephone number: 38 67 76 33 .
Pain
It is normal to experience some kind of pain after the surgery.
Prior to the surgery we asked you to buy: Paracetamol 500 mg and Ibuprofen 200 mg. If you feel the need for pain relief you may take Paracetamol 500 mg - 2 tablets every 6 hours.
You cannot expect to be totally free from any pain, but in most cases this will provide enough pain relief. If not, you may add Ibuprofen 200 mg - 2 tablets every 8 hours.
Physical activity
It is important that you regain your natural level of movement and strength in your shoulder and your arm after surgery. Use your arm like you normally would beginning the day after the surgery.
You may resume exercises like biking and running when you feel ready. You may resume exercises like weight lifting and contact sports four weeks after surgery, unless you have been advised otherwise. It is important that you pay attention to your body. If your arm feels sore and heavy you need to rest.
Upcoming appointments
You will find your upcoming appointments in the clinic in your appointment card.