If you have any problems post-operatively, please contact me on the above numbers.  I always prefer to know if there is a problem before you go to your GP as I am responsible for your post-operative care.  

REST

Following your surgery you should go home and rest.  Sleep supported by 2-3 pillows for up to 7 days after your operation to help reduce swelling in the breasts.  It is important that you take it easy and avoid any strenuous activities for 6 weeks.  Avoid sexual activity for 3 weeks post-operatively and breast stimulation for 4 weeks.  Normal activities and gentle walking can be resumed after the first couple of weeks.  You can commence driving after one – two weeks when you feel safe and uncompromised.

TRAVEL

Ideally stay in Brisbane for the first week after your operation. Travel, including air travel, is fine after this but you should wear your stockings.

BLEEDING

Post-operatively you may experience some ooze coming through your dressings.  This is quite normal and usually only lasts for the first couple of days.  If a breast suddenly becomes swollen and tense then you may have a haematoma, and you must let me know immediately.

WOUND CARE

When you wake from surgery you will have a large adhesive dressing covering your chest.  Keep the dressings dry until I see you in my rooms 5-7 days following your surgery when we will remove your dressings.  Sutures are internal and dissolve over a period of three months.  You will be given antibiotics to commence the day of your operation.

PAIN RELIEF

I will prescribe the most appropriate form of pain relief to assist with the discomfort.  This should be sufficient for the week however if you do run out of these, panadeine from the pharmacy should be sufficient.  Aspirin and anti-inflammatory drugs (i.e. nurofen) should be avoided, unless you are prescribed it, as it prolongs the time you will bleed.  Post-operatively it is common to experience bloating and constipation. Keep well hydrated if required use coloxyl and senna. Notify my nurse if you have not passed a motion for 3 days and treatment will be recommended.

SCAR MANAGEMENT

Taping the suture line for 6 weeks will help the scar to mature and not stretch so much.  Micropore, provided at your post op appointment is the most suitable type as it only needs to be changed once a week and can be worn in the shower. After the six weeks it is recommended to massage bio oil twice a day into the scars for at least 3 months. It is important you return to me if the scars begin to thicken up, become red, lumpy, or raised as you may need to use silicone gel which is effective in the management of these types of scars.

INFECTION

If you experience increased pain, widespread redness or an offensive discharge coming from the wound you are best to contact me as you may have a wound infection and require antibiotics.

Appointment at Dr Richardson’s rooms Suite 9, Level 1, 33 Racecourse Rd, Hamilton / Northlakes Day Consulting Suites