Axillary Breast Surgery Recovery - Timeline, Diet, & Lifestyle

Week-to-Week Recovery Timeline After Axillary Breast Removal

As axillary breast removal surgery is performed on an outpatient basis, the entire recovery will take place at home. The general recovery timeline is explained below-

• Week 1: Immediately after surgery, the patient is likely to experience discomfort, swelling, and bruising in the area around the armpit and chest. The patient may also have drains in place to help remove excess fluid from the surgical site. During this week, the patient needs to take pain medication as prescribed, rest as much as possible, and avoid any strenuous activity.
• Week 2: In the second week, the patient will start to feel more comfortable and have less pain. Some swelling and bruising might still be present in the underarm region, but it should start to improve. It’ll be safe for the patient to start doing some light activity, such as short walks, but he/she still needs to avoid any strenuous exercise. A follow-up consultation will also be scheduled for the second week, during which the doctor will evaluate the recovery and remove stitches, if any. 
• Week 3: By the third week, the patient will feel much better and may be able to resume some of the normal activities. Mild discomfort may still be present, but it should be manageable with over-the-counter pain medication. The patient should continue to avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting.
• Week 4: During the fourth week, the patient will need another follow-up consultation so that the doctor can monitor the overall health and see if the wound is healing properly. The patient will be able to resume normal activities and perform light exercises, but strenuous activities should be avoided. The residual swelling will also continue to improve. The doctor may advise using silicone gel or sheet to improve the appearance of the scar.

In the upcoming weeks, the patient must be very careful when resuming all activities. Scarring might still be present and continue to fade away gradually. In case symptoms like persistent fever, pain, pus drainage, etc., are present, contact the doctor immediately.

Lifestyle Changes Recommended After Axillary Breast Surgery

As the surgery is performed in the underarm region, it is likely that the patient’s mobility and movements will get affected. To allow the wound to heal properly, the patient must make the following lifestyle changes. 

• Avoid Strenuous Activity: It’s important to avoid any activities that involve heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for several weeks after surgery. This can help prevent complications and allow the body time to heal.
• Wear Compression Garments: The surgeon may recommend wearing compression garments after surgery to help reduce swelling and provide support to the surgical site. 
• Take a Healthy Diet: Eating a healthy diet rich in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals can support the body’s healing process.
• Get Plenty of Rest: Rest is crucial for the body’s healing process. Get enough sleep and take breaks throughout the day to rest as needed. 
• Limit Arm Movements: Do not exert any type of pressure on the arm or try to lift, reach, push, or pull anything during the initial weeks after surgery. The doctor will provide a timeline to resume these activities gradually. 
• Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: Unhealthy habits like smoking and drinking alcohol can significantly impair healing and increase the risk of complications. It’s important to avoid these substances until the recovery is complete. 
• Follow the Doctor’s Instructions: After surgery, the patient is given a list of dos and don’ts that should be followed for a smooth recovery. This will include wound care tips, bathing instructions, follow-up schedules, etc. Follow these instructions strictly to get back to your daily life as soon as possible.