Most breast reconstruction procedures are performed with the plan of a stay in hospital, and many patients will have small drains in their breasts when they wake up. If your operation requires the use of post operative support garments, they will be fitted whilst you are asleep.

In the first 24 hours, it is normal to expect:-

•    Drowsiness
•    Dry throat
•    Nausea (possibly)
•    Discomfort and stiffness

The local anaesthetic helps with pain control for the first evening, but has usually worn off by the following morning. We assist your recovery by providing adequate pain relief through local pain busters and a patient controlled analgesia (a button that you can use to deliver pain control when you need it). By the second day, you will be prescribed regular pain relief with provision for stronger tablets if required.

Depending on your choice of reconstruction, your recovery will take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks.

You will be discharged home with a prescription for pain relief and antibiotics.

You will be asked to see Dr Gavin Sandercoe for follow up at one week, one month and every three months for a year after your operation. Some procedures may require longer follow up. If there are any problems, we want to hear from you and sort it out as soon as possible!