Q:How long do I need to wear my stockings for?
A:Guidance states a few weeks, but it will depend on when you are back to your normal activity level. Speak to the surgeon at your review.
Q: What should I do when my painkillers run out?
A: If you have no pain it is ok to stop them; If you require more then please contact your GP.
Q: What will happen to my stitches?
A: Only the drain stich is removed at day 5-7 usually by the practice nurse or District Nurse; the others will dissolve.
Q: When will my drain be reviewed?
A: Normally 1 week post discharge on a Tuesday in Pre-ams. The Ward clerk on 223 arranges this.
Q: Why do I have Pain under/around my breast?
A: The drain and surgery have bruised the intercostal nerves. It will normally take 6 weeks to feel normal again. Gabapentin can help. Very rarely these sensations can last longer.
Q: I have numbness/ pins and needles to my arm on the same side as the surgery. What could this be?
A: This could be Neuropraxia, caused from nerve damage during positioning in theatre. This is not permanent damage and should resolve by its self, but can take a number of months.
Q: How long until I feel normal again?
A: It is common to feel tired for 6 to 8 weeks after surgery. Your chest may hurt and be swollen for up to 6 weeks. It may ache or feel stiff for up to 3 months. You may also feel tightness, itching, numbness, or tingling around the incision for up to 3 months.
Q: When can I drive again?
A: Normally 4 weeks post op, but you should wait until after your surgical review. You need to be able to comfortably complete an emergency stop and have stopped all morphine medication.