Dr. Shapiro talked briefly about the surgery without going into graphic details but just enough for them to understand what he did so it would explain some of what Dana will experience as a result during her recovery period. He told her why he had to insert surgical drains which were long tubes that were inserted into the breast area or armpit to collect excess fluid that can accumulate in the space where the tumor was. The tubes have plastic bulbs on the ends to create suction, which helps the fluid to exit the body. Once the tubes were inserted he stitched the incision closed and then covered it with bandage wrapped around her chest.

“Those exercises that the nurse has you doing in the mornings are to prevent arm and shoulder stiffness on the side where you had the mastectomy but it also helps to prevent the formation of significant scar tissue. You’ll get a slightly different exercise routine once the tube is removed. You’ll need to do those for the next several weeks to keep your arm limber. That’s very important.”

“When will you remove the tube?” Dana asked.

“I think we can remove it before we release you tomorrow but I’ll know for sure in the morning. If we need to leave it in then we’ll take it out on your next follow-up visit which will be in about a week. If that’s the case then we’ll give you instructions on how to empty the fluid. You’ll need to do that a few times a day like we do now.”

“What about pain?”

“You will probably feel a mixture of numbness and pain around the breast incision and the chest wall. I’m going to prescribe some pain medication. Be sure to get it filled before you settle in at home. You’ll want to have it available for when you need it. Take the medication as prescribed. Call us if you have any side effects, questions or concerns.”

“Can I take off the bandage or take showers?”

“The nurse will show you how to take care of the bandage but I don’t want you to remove it. We’ll do that when you visit. She will also tell you how to look out for signs of infection. It’s imperative that you call us immediately if you see anything that doesn’t look or feel right. I know in your view nothing will likely look or feel right but just be diligent about it. Don’t hesitate to call thinking it’s nothing when it could be something. The stitches will dissolve over time. We’ll remove them if necessary but refrain from showers until such time that they are out. You need to give yourself time to heal the wound Dana so only sponge baths for the time being. Also don’t wear any bra or prosthesis until I see you again in a week.”