FAQs

You’ve Got Questions - I’ve Got Answers

What should I do after my procedure?

You may have been given specific instructions or handouts from the hospital but here is some general advice for management of most post-procedural symptoms.

Diet

Increase your oral intake gradually, as tolerated, and take plenty of fluids. If you have mild nausea you may take Gravol as needed for a short period of time. If you have excessive nausea and/or vomiting, call our office or your family doctor or go to the emergency department after hours.

Pain

Take regular strength acetaminophen and/or ibuprofen, following the instructions you were given. These can be taken together at the same time. Do not exceed the recommended dose. After that, take them as needed. Do not take these medications however if you have a medical condition or take a medication that makes this unsafe. Ask us or your phamacist if you are unsure.

You may have been given a prescription for a narcotic to take as needed, if the acetaminophen and ibuprofen are not enough to keep you comfortable. Fill the prescription only if needed and return unused medication to your pharmacy for disposal

Activity

After surgery you can walk and climb stairs at your own pace. Avoid lifting more than 10 kg or exerting yourself excessively. Gradually increase your activity but slow down if you experience significant discomfort. If it hurts too much, don’t do it.

Wound care

Unless instructed otherwise, keep your wound clean and dry for 48 hours after surgery. Change the outer dressing as needed. You can then remove the outer dressing and shower or sponge bath but do not submerge the wound for an extended period of time, for one week. Strips of tape, called Steristrips if used, will fall off over a week or so. If you have surgical staples, arrangements will be made for their removal. If there is excessive bleeding, bruising or swelling, call our office during business hours or see your family doctor or go to the emergency department.

I missed my appointment. What should I do?

Life happens. We understand but there may be a delay in when we can reschedule your appointment or procedure. Please call the office at 705-740-6852 to arrange for another appointment.

Breast surgery

Breast surgery is performed at the Peterborough Regional Health Centre. You may visit the Breast Assessment Centre during your initial work up for surgery and also on the day of your surgery.

Breast Surgery Path to Recovery

Patient pamphlet for surgery at PRHC

Should I have a lumpectomy (partial mastectomy) or mastectomy?

A good resource to help answer this and other questions can be found here:

http://www.cancer.ca/en/cancer-information/cancer-type/breast/treatment/surgery/choosing-between-bcs-and-mastectomy/?region=on