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Posted March 19, 2025 in Breast Reconstruction | 3 minute read
For many women, breast reconstruction after mastectomy is profoundly personal and transformative. Proper preparation can help ease anxiety and set the stage for a smooth recovery, an essential step in healing and reclaiming confidence.
Understand Your Reconstruction Options
There are several types of breast reconstruction:
- Implant-based reconstruction with implants
- Autologous reconstruction-using tissue from another part of your body, such as DIEP Flap Reconstruction or Latissimus Dorsi Reconstruction
https://www.ellsworthplasticsurgery.com/dr-warren-ellsworth/Dr. Ellsworth will help you determine the best approach based on your medical history, lifestyle, and personal preferences.
Prepare your body for surgery
Maintain a healthy diet rich in protein and vitamins to support healing
Avoid smoking and alcohol to promote circulation and tissue recovery
Stop taking medications or supplements that can affect your healing
Maintain a healthy weight and exercise regularly, as approved by your doctor, to improve overall health
Strengthen your upper body to aid in post-surgery mobility
It is recommended that you use a healing supplement, such as Juven.
Follow Pre-Operative Instructions
Dr. Ellsworth will provide specific guidelines before your procedure, including
stopping certain blood-thinning medications, washing with antibacterial soap to reduce infection risk, fasting before surgery, or following an ERAS protocol.
Plan for Recovery & Arrange for Support
Reconstructive surgery can be extensive and can take several weeks to recuperate. Healing takes time, and over-exerting yourself too soon can delay recovery. Give your body the time it needs to heal properly. Follow Dr. Ellsworth’s guidelines and activity instructions. Assistance is essential; have a support system in place, whether it is family, friends, or professional caregivers. Make your recovery space as comfortable as possible.
Prepare with:
Assistance with household tasks
Loose button-up tops for easy dressing
Soft, supportive, and front-closing post-surgical bras are recommended by Dr. Ellsworth
Plenty of pillows for support and elevation. Many women find comfort in having extra pillows to support their arms and upper body. Some women like a wedge as well.
Dr. Ellsworth will prescribe medication for pain management, and items like cozy blankets can also aid comfort.
Premade meals, easy nutritious snacks, and plenty of water
Assistance with household tasks
Prepare for Emotional Healing
Breast reconstruction is not just physical, it also an emotional journey. Many women experience a range of feelings from relief and confidence to anxiety and uncertainty. Develop and surround yourself with a strong support system whether it’s family, friends or a breast cancer survivor group. Remember that healing takes time and it’s OK to experience a range of emotions. If you are struggling emotionally, please reach out to us so we can provide resources to help.
Know What to Expect Post-Surgery
Swelling, bruising, and discomfort are expected in the first few weeks following surgery.
Dr. Ellsworth will guide you on when to resume activities, how to care for incisions, and when post-operative appointments are needed. Healing takes time, and over-exerting yourself too soon can delay recovery; your body needs time to heal. Reconstruction is a profoundly personal journey, and by preparing and working with a skilled reconstructive surgeon like Dr. Ellsworth, you can move forward with confidence and strength.
Stay positive and be patient
Reconstruction is a process, and results may take time to settle. It is expected to have swelling, asymmetry, or changes in sensation in the weeks and months after surgery. Trust the healing process and maintain open communication with your breast reconstruction team. You are reclaiming your body and confidence, and with the proper preparation, you can approach this journey feeling empowered.