Housework after mastectomy

I had a lumpectomy not a mastectomy so less invasive.
One thing I was urged to do as soon as possible were exercises to stretch the arm, the objective being to get arm above head.

Were you given similar exercises? If not yet then definitely don't. But if you were then I don't see why you couldn't incorporate them into something useful.

Well done, don't try doing too much too soon.
You should be offered physiotherapy exercises after you have healed.

That's excellent.
It means you can concentrate on getting well, and regaining full movement on the mastectomy side of your body. (Excercises, which can be difficult, but are essential)

Someone will come in once a week starting in ten day’s time, and one of my sons will come round each weekend, so that should cover the basics, thanks.
I have to say, not only am I extremely grateful for the speed with which I was treated by the NHS, but also for your generosity in replying. I assure you I’ll heed all your advice. Many thanks

Azalea99

Thank you all for taking the trouble to advise me. I can see that recovery is going to be quite testing, even with my advanced how-to-ignore-housework skills! Thanks All

Do you have someone who can help just for a few weeks?
Or could you employ someone just, say, once a week to change bedding, vacuum round, clean the bathroom?
Can you do an online shop and order some ready meals too?

Take it easy and don't fret about things not being done.

Azela, no experience here but wonderful that you feel so well after your surgery! Take the sound advice given here by GNs and take it very easy , no housework! I wish you well.

If you overdo things, there is the risk of fluid build up in your arm, so please don't as that can be a difficult thing to get on top of.

Yes go gently especially while you have the drain in. Make sure, however, that you do the exercises that they gave you. It is important to be able to move your arm.

I think I did the sort of things that didn’t mean much reaching & stretching. Certainly no lifting anything heavy. I limited myself to one armed bed making (v. casual), washing up etc. To be honest, the drip got in the way so much I was glad to be seated until the glorious day that it was removed. I agree with the others. Go gently until a nurse advises you can begin to try more energetic movement. Wishing you a good & full recovery ?

I've had several breast surgeries, including mastectomy and recon. Anything involving your arms needs to be limited.

Thank you all for taking the trouble to advise me. I can see that recovery is going to be quite testing, even with my advanced how-to-ignore-housework skills! Thanks All

Follow the medical advice and recover well x

I didn't do any heavy housework for about a month following my mastectomy ,s the last one I had drains in and found drainage stopped when I did certain things ,follow the advice you have been given following your op and only do exercises has instructed. Hope all goes well for you ,look after yourself and give your body time to heal .

My friend’s daughter removed all housework and gardening items (including washing line) from the house for 8 weeks to prevent her from doing anything following a reconstruction mastectomy. It was the only way to stop her.

Wishing you a speedy recovery too.

No, don't Azalea!
Don't try anything that involves stretching for at least 4-6 weeks eg putting out washing, vacuuming, lifting etc.
You shoul have been given advice when you left hospital but, if not, your Breast Care Nurses will advise you.

Thank you, ExDancer. Boy! Is this going to be frustrating - but as you say , best not to undo the surgeon’s good work

Both those activities involve the muscles that are in the process of healing so I would avoid them, especially the baskets as they are very heavy when newly watered. Its a 'please will you help me job for someone else.
After my hysterectomy(which I know is different) I 'hung' the washing on a clothes maid and put it outside, I tied it to some handy railings to stop it from blowing over.
I'm no expert but I remember my sister in law wouldn't even lift a kettle, so I think you'll have to be happy with a little light dusting and unstacking the dishwasher one plate at a time.
Please don't undo the wonderful job your surgeon's just done.