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Returning back to work after mastectomy

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Pointe A La Hache, LA
January 5
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A MyBCTeam Member

Hi Corinne. Both times I had surgery when I was still working I had some issues with my incisions healing. I was working at Lowe's at the time and was always running around and lifting things constantly. My doctor wouldn't let me return to work until my incisions were fully closed and had been healed for 4 weeks because my job was active and required lifting. My doctor also had me on light duty with restrictions on lifting and moving items for several months after I returned to work. Talk to your doctor and see what that have to say about your healing progress and if they think you may need some temporary or permanent restrictions once you are well enough to go back to work. Hopefully you are healing well and can return to work soon ❤️

January 6
A MyBCTeam Member

At 62, the surgeon released me at 5 weeks, I felt ready before then- but since my job often meant dealing with aggressive students (severe intellectual disabilities, and a meltdown can go south real quick!) so she gave it an extra week. The oncologist however, did not want to release me until I had at least two chemo sessions done- so that pushed it to 8 weeks!

January 5
MyBCTeam

When can you return to work after a mastectomy?

Recovery time varies for everyone, but most people return to work within three to six weeks after a mastectomy. Some may feel ready in about four weeks, while others need a few months depending on their situation.

Several factors affect your timeline:

- Type of work Show Full Answer

When can you return to work after a mastectomy?

Recovery time varies for everyone, but most people return to work within three to six weeks after a mastectomy. Some may feel ready in about four weeks, while others need a few months depending on their situation.

Several factors affect your timeline:

- Type of work: Physically demanding jobs requiring heavy lifting may need more recovery time (up to nine weeks or more)
- Additional treatments: If you're having chemotherapy or radiation after surgery, recovery may take longer
- Breast reconstruction: Having reconstruction at the same time as your mastectomy can extend recovery time
- Overall healing: Everyone's body heals differently, and complications like infection can delay your return

A MyBCTeam member shared: "I worked from home part time after two weeks, but I took four weeks before going into the office."

Consider starting part-time or working from home initially if possible. Talk with your supervisor about flexible arrangements before your surgery. You're entitled to 12 weeks of unpaid leave under federal law if you work for a company with 50+ employees.

Most importantly, listen to your body and work with your healthcare team to determine when you're truly ready. Taking the time you need isn't a failure—it's essential for proper healing.

January 5

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