FAQ
(Breast Cancer)
general
1. Did my diet or the fact I didn’t exercise much cause my cancer?
No one can definitively answer why you got cancer. It is based on many factors, including genetics. However, to decrease your RISK of getting cancer, research has shown that a healthy diet with a focus on plant-based foods and being physically active are important. As little as a half-hour a day of exercise boosts the immune system. Other behaviors that reduce your risk of getting cancer are staying at a healthy weight, avoiding excess alcohol, and not smoking.
BEFORE SURGERY
2. What will I need to take to the hospital when I have a mastectomy?
You can talk to the hospital pre-admission staff about this. Basically, you will only need a list of any medications you are taking, personal items such as a toothbrush, and loose fitting clothes to wear home. A button down blouse is easiest to put on. In addition, be sure to arrange a ride home.
3. What items should I buy or have ready to use at home after my mastectomy?
Plan ahead by buying the gauze and tape you will need to re-wrap your surgery site. If the hospital does not provide a compression sleeve, you may want to buy one as an alternative to wrapping it. Also get a tennis ball or small squeezable ball for hand exercises. Be sure to have either Ibuprofen or Tylenol on hand. You will want to have pillows to support your arm in the vehicle and in your recliner. Buy or have available a lanyard to hold drains when you shower.
AFTER SURGERY
4. During surgery I was given a pec block. What is that and how long does it last?
It is a local pain-relieving method. It usually lasts a few hours.
5. What exercises should I do after my mastectomy and how soon should I start them?
You may begin hours after surgery with simple “spider-crawl of fingers” up the wall and squeezing an exercise ball. These exercises are explained in your hospital discharge packet.
6. How long should I keep compression on my chest after a mastectomy?
Most physicians will have you keep a compression wrap on until your drains are removed.
7. What can I do to avoid lymphedema after surgery?
Arm exercises done gently and frequently are helpful. Another effective procedure is to wear a compression sleeve or wrap. A compression sleeve can be purchased at any medical supply store.
8. Won’t I need strong pain-killers after I leave the hospital? My doctor didn’t prescribe any.
Most patients do just fine with Tylenol or Ibuprofen. The nerves are deadened, so there should only be discomfort.
DRAINS
9. The tiny wires holding my drain cord in place are poking me. Is there anything I can do?
Yes. Buy Noise or Swimmers’ ear wax and mold a dab over the ends of the wires. This can be purchased at a sporting goods store for a few dollars.
10. My drain cords bother me. I think it is because they move around too much. What can I do?
Try taping (paper tape is non-allergenic) them to your skin about an inch away from the insertion site. Keep some slack in the cord when you do this. That way, they won’t pull.
11. What is the best way to clean around the drain cords?
You can gently wipe around them with a Q-Tip dabbed in alcohol.
12. I was told to “strip” my drain cord each time before I empty the drain. It seems awkward.
To make this procedure go smoothly, fold an alcohol wipe over the cord and with your fingers slide it down toward the drain.
13. Sleeping is difficult because I can’t lie on my side like I want to. How can I get comfortable?
You will need to keep your affected arm(s) elevated. You can do this by putting a couple pillows on your side(s). Some ladies with a double mastectomy find they are most comfortable sleeping in a recliner for the first week. Wherever you sleep, have all your supplies next to you, so you don’t have to get up. These could include water, medication, tissue, your cell phone, and a remote or book.
14. My drain cord caught on the door knob when I went by. How can I keep these pesky things safe?
You will need to use some method to secure them so they don’t dangle. Many ladies simply safety pin them to their undershirt.
15. My drains have been in for many weeks. I was anticipating just two weeks. Is this normal?
Yes. There is a wide-range of normal. Some people have very little drainage after only two weeks, but others may have to keep their drains in for more than a month.
16. Why won’t my doctor take out my drains even if my output is higher than he wanted?
If the drains are taken out while a lot of fluid is still being produced, a seroma could result which will require more procedures. It is best to be patient. The drains are doing what you want—getting fluid out and not creating swelling inside which could lead to infection.
MASTECTOMY SUPPLIES
17. I’m going to have to get some new type of bra. Where can I buy them?
Locally in Las Vegas there are several stores that specialize in mastectomy bras. See our resources page for more information: https://www.silverlining.vegas/fashionistas/. Online, a non-profit site is tlcdirect.org. Many insurance companies will pay for these bras and for prostheses.
GENERAL
18. I have a port. I felt a sudden, sharp sting above my port just for a second. What could it be?
Most commonly, it means a stitch has popped. This is not a concern. If the spot seems bruised, put ice on it for a few minutes. If there are other or continuing symptoms, call your doctor.
19. I wasn’t really nervous on my last doctor’s visit, but now I forgot some of the instructions. There was so much to learn and this is all new to me.
Even to routine appointments, it really helps to bring someone with you to take notes or remind you of questions. If you can’t take someone with you, at least write down questions to make the best use of your time, and don’t hesitate to ask for clarification if you don’t understand something.
20. I’m having a tough time financially. Is there any help out there?
Several organizations help with co-pays or offer grants to qualified patients. Your oncologist’s office should have a social worker or financial department. Start by inquiring there. In Las Vegas there is an American Cancer Society branch which offers rides to appointments and much more. Please refer to our Resource Guide page for more information.