How Long is Recovery from Latissimus Flap Breast Reconstruction?
You may be tired and sore for a few weeks after your surgery. Your doctor can prescribe medication to control your pain. You may have drainage tubes in place for a short time after your surgery to remove excess fluids that collect in the surgical site.
Wearing an elastic bandage or support bra can help keep swelling down and support your breast while it heals.
You’ll also have stitches (sutures) after your surgery. They’ll probably be absorbable sutures, though, so you won’t need to have them removed. Scarring is permanent, but the scars fade over time.
Getting back to normal activities may take up to six weeks or more. Your doctor will let you know of any restrictions to your activities, such as avoiding overhead lifting or strenuous physical activities.
Don’t be surprised if it seems to take a long time to bounce back from surgery — some women report that it takes as long as a year or two before feeling completely healed and back to normal.
Generally, you’ll follow up with your plastic surgeon on a yearly basis to monitor your reconstructed breast. Make an appointment sooner than that, however, if you have concerns.
