Mastectomy (cont.)
IN THIS ARTICLE
Next Steps
- The first follow-up visit occurs about one week after the surgery to make sure the incision is healing well and that no postoperative complications are present.
- During this visit, the surgeon explains the results of the biopsy and, if necessary, discusses any further treatment (chemotherapy [using medications to kill cancer cells], radiation therapy, or both).
- Stitches that dissolve by themselves are often used to close the incision. If the surgeon used nondissolving stitches or clips, they are removed during the first follow-up visit.
- Drainage tubes are usually removed (typically within two weeks) when the amount of fluid draining from the operation site decreases to an acceptable volume.
Next: Risks »
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