7 ways to minimise complications after breast surgery

Written By James Allan

You may be having breast surgery for aesthetic reasons or medical ones such as addressing chronic pain or discomfort through breast reduction surgery or rebuilding a sense of self after a mastectomy through breast reconstruction. Your feelings about breast surgery may be complex and deeply personal, making it a significant life event with emotional as well as physical implications.

Feeling more in control often helps. And there are many things you can do to ease your recovery and reduce the risk of surgical complications. 

1. Choose the right surgeon

Using an appropriately qualified and experienced surgeon is the first way to minimise the risk of post-surgery complications. 

Trust your breast surgery to a surgeon who is: 

  • A member of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons

  • A Fellow of the Royal Australian College of Surgeons (FRACS), meaning they’ve completed at least 12 years of medical and surgical training

  • Participating in regular continuing professional development (CPD) opportunities through the College so they’re up to date on the latest research and advances in treatment. 

As a specialist plastic and reconstructive surgeon, I’m pleased to say I meet all those criteria.  

2. Follow post-operative care instructions

Your surgeon will provide specific instructions on caring for your surgical site, promoting good healing and managing pain. 

That may include: 

  • Wearing your post-surgery compression garment 

  • Avoiding underwired bras for at least 6 weeks

  • Sleeping on a slight angle (a boomerang pillow can help)

  • Diligently doing your post-op physiotherapy exercises as prescribed. 

In addition, you should avoid: 

  • Lifting anything above 2 kg (i.e. very light things only!) for the first 2 weeks

  • Heavy lifting, strenuous work or going to the gym for at least 6 weeks

  • Driving for 2-6 weeks (your surgeon will advise you when you’re ready to return)

  • Working – give yourself 1-2 weeks to recover and allow the swelling and pain to ease

  • Swimming, until you’re completely healed.  

3. Wear your post-surgical garment

A post-surgical compression bra (*link to relevant blog*) helps to:

  • Support to your healing tissues
    Reduce swelling

  • Minimise fluid buildup

  • Improve blood circulation

  • Reduce discomfort. 

Please wear your garment for as long as your surgeon advises to ensure proper healing.

4. Monitor for surgical site infections

Signs of a surgical site infection include: 

  • Redness

  • Warmth

  • Fever

  • Pus or an unusual discharge around the incision. 

If you notice anything unusual, contact your surgeon promptly as you may need medical treatment to resolve the infection. 

5. Manage pain and avoid strain

Pain is common after surgery, but managing it effectively is crucial. Take prescribed medications on schedule and follow your surgeon’s recommendations on activity restrictions to avoid putting strain on your chest area. 

These limitations can be frustrating for some patients but it’s easy to do too much too soon and that can set back your recovery. It’s in your best interest to take things slowly so you can recover properly. 

6. Attend all follow-up appointments

Attending scheduled follow-up appointments is essential to ensure that you’re healing as expected. These check-ups allow your surgeon to monitor your recovery progress, address any concerns, and detect issues like scar formation, fluid buildup or infection early on.  

7. Practice good hygiene and diet

Maintaining hygiene, particularly around your incision sites, can prevent infections. Wash your hands before touching the area and follow any wound care instructions given by your surgeon. 

Nourish your body with good hydration and healthy food. Eliminating heavily processed foods and focusing on whole, nutrient-dense food choices provides your body with essential nutrients to aid the healing process. Make sure you get enough protein too as this aids muscle and tissue repair and helps fight off infections. 

How can I help? 

Following those 7 tips can help you reduce the risk of many common problems after breast surgery. 

All the best for your recovery and the next stage of your life! If I can help in any way, please contact me. 

Disclaimer

All information is general and not intended as a substitute for professional advice. Results may vary. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. 

References

James Allan
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