Definition of Mastectomy
A mastectomy is a surgical procedure where a doctor removes the entire breast tissue or a portion of it. It is typically performed as a medical treatment for breast cancer.
Who need to undergo Mastectomy?
Those who choose to undergo a mastectomy might have one of the following signs:
- Those who are diagnosed with breast cancer where the tuor itself is too large to removed via lumpectomy (Surgery that only remove the tumor)
- Those who have multiple tumors in different areas of the breast
- Those who have high risk or strong family history of breast cancer and wants to reduce the risk of getting breast cancer
- Those who have recurrent breast cancer
The Signs & Symptoms after Mastectomy
Some of the common symptoms after the post-operative procedure includes:
- Pain and discomfrot over the surgical area
- Swelling and bruising around the incision sites
- Limited arm or shoulder mobility due to pain
- Some numbness and tingling sensation over the area
- Experience emotional vulnerability such as sadness, anxiety, changes in body imageand etc.
How does physiotherapy play a role in post-operative care?
Physiotherapy plays an important role in the recovery for individuals after mastectomy as to improve overall function and emotional well-being.
Some of the treatment provided include:
- Pain Management through manual therapy, heat or cold therapy ease the pain and reduce swelling after mastectomy
- Restoring Range of Motion (ROM) through shoulder mobility and stretching exercises
- Improving arm strength through targeted exercises involving the chest, back, shoulders, and arm, so you can lift your arm again without pain
- Scar tissue management through techniques like scar massage and scar care to prevent keloid formation and promote tissue flexibility
- Functional training to help you get back to daily activities like self-feeding, grooming, and back to work activities
- Providing emotional support by creating a supportive environment where individuals feel understood and motivated to get better
Prepared by:
Hana Tan Wei Wern
Your Physio Kepong