Expect to have bruising and swelling. The majority of the bruising and swelling will have subsided by 3 weeks but complete resolution will take at least 6 months to occur. Typically, scars heal in a very methodical manner. For the first 6 to 8 weeks the scar becomes red as the body heals. After that stage, however, the scars become much less red and thinner. Complete scar maturation takes one and a half years.

Children

• Plan to have someone take care of small children for first 2-3 weeks. This is especially important for infants as you should avoid lifting them for this time period.
• You will be able to hold children in your lap but you should not be lifting them into this position.
• For walking children, think of ways to encourage them to help you out. This may involve telling them that mommy is recovering and they need to be big boys and girls to help mommy. Make them part of the team.
• Consider hiring a baby sitter/temporary nanny for this period. A family member (i.e. grandparent) is ideal.

House Work

• You will be able to do simple tasks the day after surgery. Be careful, you will tire very quickly. Do not let this frustrate you.
• Avoid reaching above shoulder level. This will irritate the breast muscles. Keep your elbows very close to your body. Work only with your hands-not your shoulders.
• Avoid twisting your abdomen and bending at the waist. This will irritate the abdomen muscles. If you need to rotate-rotate with your feet not your abdomen. If you need to bend-bend with your knees not your abdomen.
• Do not vacuum or do laundry for the first 4-6 weeks.

Work

• Everyone progresses differently. Do not get frustrated if you feel you are progressing too slow. It takes about 3 months to get your energy levels back to normal.
• Sedentary Job - (i.e., computer work, phones). Most patients are able to go back at 2 weeks. Do not expect to work full time until 3-4 weeks. Be sure to arrange your work station so that you limit shoulder and abdomen motion.
• Strenuous Job - Most patients require 4-6 weeks to get back.

Driving

• Do not drive will taking narcotic pain medications or Xanax.
• You may start driving when you feel your strength and reflexes are adequate. Typically, this varies from 7-10 days.
• Make sure someone is with you during your first time out. They may need to take over if you do not feel up to it.

Working Out
Everyone progresses differently. The key is to listen to your body. If it hurts - DO NOT DO IT. Dr. Cruise will monitor your progress during your follow up visits. Here are some guide lines:

• You will be walking around immediately after surgery.
• Brisk Walks, Stationary Bike - 1 week.
• Light Weights - 6 weeks.
• Sit-ups, Jogging - 8 weeks.

Sexual Activity

• Do not do it. This is what got you into trouble in the first place.....Just kidding.
• Once again, use your judgment. If it hurts - Do NOT do it. Otherwise, it is usually OK at 3-4 weeks.