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What is the average healing time after a double mastectomy?

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Davenport, FL
March 1
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A MyBCTeam Member

Some of it depends on what happens next- for me, the surgeon was willing to release at 5 weeks, but the oncologist wanted a minimun of two chemo sessions in before he would release, so I did not go back to work for 8 weeks. But then, my job could get very physical (middle school students with significant intellectual disabilities and a tendency to hurt themselves or others, requiring physical intervention by staff).

March 1
A MyBCTeam Member

It took me 2 weeks to start getting back to normal, by the third week I was up and doing my normal daily activities :) Prayers for a speedy recovery

March 1
A MyBCTeam Member

My scars were about an inch wide, it took about 5 weeks piece by piece. Soaking in a warm Epson salt water was wonderful after about 2-3 weeks.

March 1
MyBCTeam

What is the average healing time after a double mastectomy?

Recovery after a double mastectomy typically takes about four weeks for basic healing. However, the timeline can vary significantly based on several factors.

Most people return to work within three to six weeks on average. Some may feel ready to resume normal Show Full Answer

What is the average healing time after a double mastectomy?

Recovery after a double mastectomy typically takes about four weeks for basic healing. However, the timeline can vary significantly based on several factors.

Most people return to work within three to six weeks on average. Some may feel ready to resume normal activities within four weeks, while others may need a few months depending on their specific situation.

Factors that affect recovery time include:

* Whether you have breast reconstruction at the same time (can extend healing to eight weeks or longer)
* Your type of work (physically demanding jobs may require more recovery time)
* Whether you receive chemotherapy or radiation therapy after surgery
* Your overall health and any complications

After surgery, you'll likely stay in the hospital for one or two nights, though some people go home the same day. You'll have a temporary drain near the surgical site that's usually removed within two weeks.

During recovery, it's important to follow your doctor's orders, keep the surgical site clean, do prescribed arm exercises, and watch for signs of infection or lymphedema.

Give yourself grace during this time—everyone heals at their own pace, and it's essential to listen to your body rather than rushing back to your regular routine.

March 1

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