What Is A Mastectomy Procedure?
A mastectomy is a surgical procedure to remove one or both breasts, primarily for treating or preventing breast cancer. The extent of the surgery varies, from removing only breast tissue to more extensive procedures involving lymph nodes and chest muscles. The type of mastectomy is chosen based on the patient’s medical needs and cancer stage.
TYPES OF MASECTOMIES
Pick Your Scar Solution
DESIGNED FOR MINIMIZING MASTECTOMY SCARS
- Scar Heal Kits
- Scar Fx Silicone Sheeting
- Silicone Gels & Creams
- Compression Wraps
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I do to minimize scarring after a mastectomy?
In addition to following your doctor’s post-surgery care instructions, we recommend using medical grade silicone products— like our silicone-based Rejuvaskin Scar Heal Kits, which combines the benefits of silicone scar sheeting AND silicone scar gel.
These two products work together to provide around the clock scar management. We recommend using the silicone sheeting at night and the scar gel during the day.
What is the recovery time after a mastectomy?
The recovery time after a mastectomy typically ranges from 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the individual and the extent of the surgery. Most patients can resume light activities within a few days to a week, but full recovery, including the ability to return to normal daily activities and more strenuous physical tasks, can take up to 6 weeks or longer. It is important to follow your surgeon's post-operative care instructions and gradually ease back into activity.
How long should I wear a compression garment after mastectomy surgery?
And can I use my silicone scar products alongside my compression garments?
After a mastectomy, you typically need to wear a compression garment for 2 to 6 weeks, depending on your surgeon's recommendation. Silicone scar products should be applied only after the incisions have fully closed, usually 2 to 4 weeks post-surgery, and can often be used in tandem with compression garments if approved by your doctor. Always follow your surgeon’s advice regarding timing and use of both treatments.
Can you have breast reconstruction after a mastectomy?
The answer to this will largely depend on your treatment plan, the severity of your cancer, how much tissue was removed, etc. These are all factors you should discuss with your doctor to see if breast reconstruction is an option for you.
However, generally, many women are able to undergo a breast reconstruction after mastectomy— this combined procedure allows survivors to not only treat their cancer, but also retain a sense of normalcy after this challenging period, contributing to their overall mental & emotional wellbeing.
Which Scar Heal Kit For Breasts should I use for my mastectomy scars?
This will largely depend on the incision your surgeon used. Our breast sheeting comes in 5 different shapes, designed to fit over most common incisions used for breast procedures— you can check out all the different shapes here, and be sure to ask your doctor about which incision they’ll be using for your procedure.
When can I start using silicone on my mastectomy scars?
Like with all silicone scar treatments, you want to wait until your wound is fully closed before starting use. This means your wound is no longer oozing, bleeding, scabbing, etc, which usually take a few weeks.