Tolnitch Surgical Associates, PA
2301 Rexwoods Drive, Ste 116
Raleigh, NC 27607

Lisa Tolnitch, M.D., F.A.C.S.
Nancy Crowley, M.D., F.A.C.S
Gayle DiLalla, M.D., F.A.C.S
Keith D. Amos, M.D.

Telephone: 919-782-8200   Fax: 919-781-0440

BREAST MASTECTOMY with or without SENTINEL NODE BIOPSY
POST OPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS

1. Some patients are admitted to the hospital overnight and are discharged the following morning. If doing well, some patients may be able to go home later on the evening of surgery.
2. The dressings should be left in place until your office visit. The dressings should be kept clean and dry until then.
3. If you have a drain in place, the nurses at the hospital will educate you on how to care for it and record the output before you leave. Based on the drain output, we will have you come into the office to have the drain removed.
4. To alleviate discomfort,
   • Wear a comfortable bra for support
   • You may use an ice pack, if desired, for the first 12 hours. After the first 12 hours you may use warm moist heat.
   • You may take prescription pain medication given by your doctor and/or Tylenol/Advil (check Tylenol amounts).
5. You may also receive a prescription for an antibiotic.
6. Avoid rigorous activities such as running, aerobics (for one week) and avoid swimming for two weeks.
7. Do not drive or operate any heavy machinery the day of your surgery or while on pain medication.
8. Call our office (782-8200) if you:
   • Experience a fever and/or chills.
   • Experience a large amount of bleeding.
   • Have any questions or concerns.
   • Experience increased swelling at the incision site.
9. The final pathology will be available within 48-72 hours of your procedure. When the report is received, our office will call you with the results.
10. We will call you the day following your mastectomy to schedule a follow up appointment and check on your drain output.