Mastectomy and Breast Reconstruction
Mastectomy
A mastectomy is a surgical procedure to remove one or both of your breasts.
Our Physiotherapist Kirsty, has first-hand experience of this surgery. She has had a double mastectomy and reconstruction. She is able to offer assessment and treatment of her patients with a full understanding and appreciation of what you are going through.
Why might I need a mastectomy?
A mastectomy is usually recommended for individuals with breast cancer but there are also a variety of specific reasons for having the operation:
To reduce the risk of breast cancer in a healthy breast where there has been a personal or family history of breast cancer
The cancerous tissue has spread to other areas
A tumour just behind the nipple
After the breast has been removed, you may have another operation to create an artificial breast. If you are having an artificial breast, a breast reconstruction will be carried out where silicone or tissue from another area such as your abdominals or back will be used to create a new breast. Depending on the type of Breast Reconstruction, recovery can differ.
What are the symptoms after breast reconstruction surgery?
Possible symptoms may include:
Pain
A scar from where the incision (cut) was made on your breast and a scar from the area where the healthy tissue was taken if you had an autogenous reconstruction
Temporary pins and needles or numbness from where the nerves have been cut during the operation
Swelling
Reduced shoulder and neck movement
Reduced strength if certain muscle have been removed or cut through
Bruising
What is the physiotherapy treatment for breast reconstruction?
There are various physiotherapy treatment options available to you following your operation. The physiotherapists at Palms Physiotherapy will carry out a full assessment to identify your main problems and work with you to devise a specialised treatment programme to suit your needs. Physiotherapy may include:
Pain control modalities
Breathing exercises
Positioning advice
Range of movement exercises, particularly for neck and shoulders
Gentle strengthening exercises
Cyrotherapy (ice) treatment to reduce swelling
Scar mobility techniques
Gradual return to normal activities of daily living
Physiotherapy is extremely effective at optimising recovery following a mastectomy and Palms Physiotherapy have specialist physiotherapists who will work with you and design a physiotherapy programme specific to your needs. We also have a small studio with Pilates and rehabilitation equipment to assist in building your strength and range of motion.
We understand that a mastectomy is a difficult operation both physically and emotionally and our Physiotherapists are experienced at dealing with such sensitive issues.