Alumpectomyis a surgical procedure to remove a small portion of cancerous breast tissue or tissue suspected to be cancerous.

This article explains everything it’s crucial that you know about post-lumpectomy care.

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Post-Lumpectomy Care Instructions

Proper post-lumpectomy care is vital for recovery and healing.

A woman reading a book in bed.

Luis Alvarez / Getty Images

Below are the basics you’re gonna wanna know about recovering from a lumpectomy.

Medication Schedule

While a lumpectomy is less-invasive than a mastectomy, some pain is still expected post-op.

Pain relievers, such as Tylenol (acetaminophen), are recommended to help manage the pain.

Sleep Positions

Plan tosleep on your backto avoid putting pressure on the surgical area.

When you are cleared to start working out again, go slowly.

Be sure to plan ahead and arrange childcare and time for healing and recovery.

For most people who undergo a lumpectomy, recovery time is around one week.

If there are signs of infection, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

It depends on your specific situation.

Typically, you do not want to get your surgical area wet for a prolonged period.

Talk to your healthcare provider about bathing instructions following your procedure.

Age, pregnancy, family history, and general health also play a role.

MedlinePlus.Surgical wound infection - treatment.

Label:Tylenol regular strength - acetaminophen tablet, film coated.

American Cancer Society.Exercising after breast cancer surgery.

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.Surgery for breast cancer.

American Cancer Society.Breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy).