Breast cancer surgery is often a life-saving treatment. The reconstruction procedures that follow allow women to return to a normal life and maintain a positive body image. For proper healing, follow your doctor's instructions regarding aftercare. Performing certain exercises can help in the healing process and make it easier for you to return to normal activities sooner.
Significance
Performing exercises following breast reconstruction surgery can speed healing and make you feel better about yourself. In fact, according to the American Cancer Society, getting back to an exercise routine following surgery can reduce fatigue and depression and improve your self-confidence. It can also reduce the chance of developing lymphedema, a condition that causes lymph fluid buildup in the nodes around the breast, and help you regain mobility faster.
Rehabilitation Exercises
Immediately after breast reconstruction, you can start doing some light rehabilitation exercises. According to the American Cancer Society, you can begin these exercises within a week of having surgery. One exercise you can do is raising the arm on the side of the breast that was operated on above your head for 45 minutes while lying down. While in this position, bend and straighten your elbow and open and close your hand to gently exercise your chest muscles.
Shoulder Rolls
Shoulder rolls are an exercise you can do soon after surgery as well. While standing up with your back straight, roll your shoulders up and forward. Then move them down and backward. Continue this motion for as long as you can. It should be slightly tiring, but not painful. As always, consult with your doctor before trying this exercise.
Bar Lift
The bar lift can be done a week or two following surgery. All you need is a broom handle or something similar. This exercise helps to tone your chest muscles and prevent fluid from building up in your lymph nodes. To perform it, hold the bar in your hands at your waist. Lift it straight up until it's in line with your shoulders. Lower it back down and repeat four times. Add repetitions as you gain strength.
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