Transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap -- or TRAM flap, for short -- is a surgery that uses skin and fatty tissue from the lower abdomen to reconstruct the breast after a mastectomy. Since two areas of the body require recovery following this procedure, activity restrictions often apply, and vary greatly from woman to woman. There are, however, some general guidelines to follow when it comes to exercise.
Step 1
Lift no more than 5 to 10 lbs. for four to six weeks following surgery to avoid rupturing suture sites. After six weeks, you can add more weight, lifting up to 20 lbs. After 10 weeks, it's usually safe to lift up to 25 lbs. Once you hit 16 weeks, lifting weights is unrestricted, notes Massachusetts General Hospital.
Step 2
Walk each day of the week, but keep a leisurely pace for at least four to six weeks. You want to avoid breaking a sweat during this timeframe. After six weeks, you can increase the intensity to a more moderate pace.
Step 3
Include some biking into your exercise routine. Like walking, however, keep the intensity low to avoid breaking a sweat. After four to six weeks, gradually increase the intensity until you're back to your normal pace.
Step 4
Consider incorporating other low-impact activities into your exercise regimen, such as yoga or Tai Chi. For most women, it's usually safe to take part in any one of these activities six to eight weeks following the procedure.
Step 5
Incorporate moderate intensity exercises back into your routine after ten to twelve weeks. This means you can start running, swimming and playing some light tennis, softball or golf.
Step 6
Kick up the intensity of exercise to vigorous -- if you want -- after 16 weeks. This means you can usually take part in any athletic pursuit at this time. Skiing, rowing, climbing and taking part in full-on tennis, racquetball, volleyball, soccer, softball and field hockey are pretty much on the table.
Tips and Warnings
- Your doctor will likely give you a series of exercises to help return the full range of motion to the shoulder of the affected breast. Do these each day for the best results. Always get your doctor's OK before increasing the intensity of your workout or including a new activity into your exercise routine.
- When cycling after TRAM flap, stick to a stationary bike for 10 to 12 weeks. This can prevent sudden movements or falls that may reinjure surgical sites. After this time, you can usually head outdoors.
Member Comments