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Dr. Dimitrijevic's postoperative instructions for breast reconstruction
1. Your breasts are wrapped with an ACE wrap. Leave the
wrap on until you are seen again in follow-up at the office.
If the wrap is too tight, you can undo the ACE bandage and
rewrap it more loosely. But, the ACE bandage should be snug
and provide support. Also, the ACE bandage should cover the
entire upper, middle, and lower breast. DO not wear it like
a tube-top with cleavage showing up top. No showering until
your drains are out. You can sponge bathe everywhere else,
but keep your ACE wrap clean and dry.
2. Take medications as directed. Do not take aspirin, anti-inflammatory
medications (Motrin, Ibuprofen, Alleve) or Vitamin E supplements
for 2 weeks after surgery.
3. No driving while under narcotic medications for pain.
4. Empty and record your drain output daily.
5. Ask Dr. Dimitrijevic in your first follow-up visit regarding going
back to work.
6. You should sleep on your back for 2 weeks following surgery.
7. Avoid alcohol or cigarette smoking for at least 3 weeks
following surgery.
8. Call and make a follow-up appointment for 7 days following
surgery.
9. Do not raise your arms over the level of your shoulder
for 3 weeks. Do not pick up objects heavier than a phone book.
10. Do not apply a heating pad over your breasts. Portions
of your breasts will be numb and you may get a burn from the
heating pad. Cold packs in the first 48 hours following surgery
is OK and may help to keep the swelling down. Apply cold packs
over the ACE wrap, not directly over the breasts and nipples.
11. Scar therapy for your incisions will start at 2 weeks
following surgery. Dr. Dimitrijevic will instruct you regarding scar
creams.
12. You may return to normal activity and exercise at 3
weeks following surgery.
13. If you are constipated, take over-the-counter laxatives.
You do not want to strain over the toilet. This may lead to
your blood pressure rising and cause bleeding.
14. Call with any questions or concerns. Dr. Dimitrijevic is available
through the office phone number 24/7. Don’t ever feel badly
about calling.
15. Report to Dr. Dimitrijevic immediately if: A temperature of 100
degrees or above, excessive bleeding, excessive pain, enlargement
of one breast associated with increased pain, bruising, and/or
tightness. Should you experience any of these symptoms after
normal business hours, call the office number and ask to have
Dr. Dimitrijevic paged immediately. Otherwise, call the office at (949)
548-9312.
Check photography before and after intervention.
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