Post Mastectomy Surgical Risks

Surgical risks to mastectomy surgery. While this is not a comprehensive list, the risks discussed include:
Common: Pain that usually lasts 3 to 4 days then typically decreases.
Rare: Bleeding which is normal in small amounts. A hematoma is sudden large collection of blood in the surgical wound that can cause swelling and pain. Blood seeping through the dressing is unusual and you should alert your doctor if this is in large quantities.
Rare: Wound infection that can present as redness, drainage, increasing pain, and fevers. You will not be put on routine antibiotics at home but if concerns for infection please alert your doctor.
Rare: Skin flap necrosis which is when the edges of the skin can turn dark and scab over and will take longer to heal.
Common: Scar tissue that can feel more firm and sometimes itch.
Common: Pulling or numbness in skin of arm and armpit.
Rare: Swelling or lymphedema of the arm. Elevate your arm on pillows above the level of your heart if you think this is happening. Your doctor may ask you to wear a compression sleeve if this occurs.
Rare: Recurrence of cancer. Any firm areas immediately after surgery are unlikely to be related to cancer and are part of the healing process.
Common: cosmetic changes. The appearance of a mastectomy changes drastically over the first six months so be patient.
Loss of sexual identity and sadness. Having a positive psychological outlook and leaning on your support group goes a long way for a smooth recovery. Don’t be afraid to discuss these feeling with your doctor.