Returning to Work Post Mastectomy

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Hi

I've not got cancer but am BRCA 2+ and am having a risk reducing mastectomy next week. I am obviously anxious about the surgery, but also about returning to work. Because I will not (hopefully) be having any treatment afterwards, I am worried about how long (or not) my surgeon will sign me off for. I have an active job with a long commute (not accessible by public transport). All guidance for recovery and return to work after mastectomy relates to cancer treatment (which I am not complaining about at all - my sister found all of this helpful after her dx), but because this is not me, I am a previvor, I am kind of lost as there is little to no information on what we can access in terms of support and guidance. I've had the booklet on BRCA but it didn't really give me any more info than I already had. I kind of feel that I am not entitled to ask for support from cancer groups/ organisations, but the only support there is comes from fellow previvors, and their experiences differ from region to region.

Sorry for waffling... 

  • Hello Noona

    Thank you for contacting us at Macmillan on the Ask A Nurse platform. My name is George, and I'm one of the cancer information nurses on the Macmillan Support Line. A risk-reducing mastectomy can cause many different thoughts and feelings, and I hope the support of the online community and the information below will help answer your questions today.

    I wanted to start with your support question. Anyone touched by cancer, or the possibility of cancer, can seek help and support. I hear what you say about the feeling that help and support are for cancer and people with cancer. But you are having cancer risk-reducing surgery and would also be eligible for the support out there. You can always contact us by chat, phone, or email; we will help you where we can or direct you to the places that can answer your questions. There is some further help and support regarding possible body image change-related concerns you may have. The Royal Free NHS Hospital has additional help and support on its site regarding Psychological support for risk-reducing breast surgery.

    We do not have access to personal NHS medical records here at Macmillan and can only give general help and support. We always advise you to ask these questions to your medical team, as they are best placed to advise you.

    Recovery can generally take 4-6 weeks. As you know, this can vary from person to person. Breast Cancer Org states that you shouldn't lift objects heavier than 5 pounds (2 kg) during this recovery period. The NHS has further guidance: The wounds can take 2-3 weeks to heal and sometimes a little longer if the area is swollen and needs more time to recover. A typical period of medical leave after this type of surgery is 4-8 weeks. This can be signed off by your consultant at your review or in the ward before your discharge home. Your specialist breast team can advise on arm exercises post-surgery and when you can expect to lift heavier objects and perform your specific work duties.

    Some people can drive 3 weeks after surgery, but this would be the earliest. You also need to feel confident and competent to drive. Concerns aren't just the ability to steer but also:

    • the pressure of the seatbelt upon your chest
    • the consideration of needing to perform an emergency stop
    • and the pressure this may cause upon your surgical site

    You can ask your medical team for greater clarification about when it is safe for you to drive. Stamina can also be a concern with driving, especially with a long commute that you may find painful or uncomfortable in the very early days.

    If you have further questions, we have helpful information regarding cancer, employment rights, and the sick pay process. We have a Money Advice team available from 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday, who can help and support you further if needed.

     

    Be kind to yourself and allow time for recovery both physically and emotionally.

    Finally, please don’t hesitate to call us on the Macmillan Support Line if you need further advice or support. 

    I hope this helps.

    Kind Regards George

    Macmillan Cancer Information Nurse Specialist

    You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email

    Ref: GHi/DC