Breast cancer is a very tough and life-changing condition for patients. After breast cancer surgery, it is essential to prioritize post-surgical needs and care to help yourself recover and heal faster. In Fort Smith, Arkansas, there are many vital post-surgical needs that breast cancer patients must be aware of.
Here are some post-surgical needs and support that patients need during and after the treatment:
- Wound Care and Dressing Changes:
Patients need to get proper wound care after their breast cancer surgery to minimize their risk of infection. It also helps them promote healing. Your surgeon will most likely give you the right instructions on taking care of your incision site while changing your dressing regularly. Typically, you need to keep the incision site dry and clean, wear loose and comfortable clothing, and avoid exposure of the incision site to excessive sunlight or heat. You may even need to change the dressing every day and it’s important to follow the given instructions carefully. This will help you prevent any complications.
Depending on the type of surgery you have undergone, you may need to wear a support bra or compression garment to promote healing. Meanwhile, such post-surgical accessories prevent fluid buildup over time. It helps in reducing swelling and discomfort too.
- Pain Management:
Breast cancer surgery is also painful, so it’s vital to plan proper pain management after surgery. Your doctor even prescribes you proper medication for properly controlling the pain. It is important to have medication on time until the pain is manageable.
Besides medication, there are many other pain management techniques as well. For instance, patients are recommended to do certain relaxation techniques, like ice or heat therapy, and meditation. You may consult your healthcare team about the techniques that may work best for you.
- Physical Therapy:
As per the type of surgery you undergo, you require proper physical therapy for regaining range of motion and strength in your shoulder and arm. Physical therapy even helps you get back to regular activities while improving your life’s quality. A physician may even refer you to a therapist for preparing a personalized exercise program for you.
Physical therapy often starts after a few weeks of your surgery. After healing your incision site, you can continue with the therapy for many weeks or months. During the therapy, you can do the recommended exercises that may highlight to improve your range of motion, strength, and flexibility.
- Emotional Support:
The surgery to treat breast cancer is quite challenging for a patient. So, they need to have a solid support system to manage their emotional health. Generally, family members, friends, therapists, and support groups can offer much-needed emotional support to the patients. When they share their feelings and issues, they can easily cope with the emotional impact of this medical condition.
Are you facing the emotional impact of breast cancer? It’s vital to seek help. You require a healthcare team to get proper referrals and resources from therapists, support groups, and other resources in the community.
- Nutrition:
For healing and recovery after surgery of breast cancer, proper nutrition is vital. Consuming a well-balanced diet includes ample fruits, lean protein, and vegetables. It helps you feel better while supporting healing. It is also vital to stay hydrated by consuming ample water and avoiding caffeine and alcohol.
Also Read: Perfectly Fitted Custom Breast Prosthesis in Springdale, Arkansas
During the recovery phase, it’s important to avoid having sugary drinks, processed foods, and junk food. It could slow down the healing process while leading to inflammation. You even need to focus on whole foods that contain high amounts of fiber and nutrients.
Pink Ribbon Boutique
Pink Ribbon Boutique offers a variety of products and services to breast cancer patients in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Some of the best products and services they offer are:
- Breast prosthesis and bras:
Pink Ribbon Boutique offers an extensive range of breast prosthesis and bras for women who have undergone breast surgery. Their products help restore the symmetry and confidence of the survivors after surgery.
- Wigs and head coverings:
During the treatment, women experience hair loss due to chemotherapy. But they can get desired wigs and head coverings from Pink Ribbon Boutique to restore their self-esteem.
- Compression garments and lymphedema/mastectomy products:
They also offer various types of compression garments and mastectomy/lymphedema products to easily manage inflammation and improve blood circulation.
Besides all these products, Pink Ribbon Boutique even provides a compassionate and supportive environment to breast cancer patients. It helps patients to connect with others who have been going through the same condition. Their staff members are knowledgeable and caring, so they offer the right assistance as patients go through their breast cancer journey.
Conclusion
Breast cancer recovery needs a comprehensive approach for addressing both the emotional and physical post-surgical needs of patients. By prioritizing post-surgical care and support, patients are most likely to improve their chances of recovery. Pink Ribbon Boutique is an invaluable resource to offer the right products and support breast cancer patients in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Explore their website for more information.
You can also read: Breast Cancer Support Groups Empowering Warriors in Fort Smith, Arkansas