Forum Discussion

Penonce's avatar
Penonce
Member
20 days ago

Recovery after SMX

Hi everyone,

I am having a SMX, direct to implant in a fortnights time. Has anyone had this and can let me know what recovery was like? I am thinking of hiring a recliner chair to help with sleeping and general recovery

2 Replies

  • Morning Penonce

    It certainly is a worrying time not knowing for sure what is ahead and how you will cope medically as well as emotionally.  

    I had a Mastectomy which involved an Expander.  The implant was months later.  The Sentinel node and 3 other lymph nodes were also taken.  The pathology results from the lymph node removal showed cancer contained to the breast only, no spread to the lymph nodes.

    As to recovery!  We are all different in the way our bodies react.  I didn't need a recliner chair and sleeping was as normal in a bed but unable to sleep on my left side as that's where the mastectomy was and the lymph node removal.  

    Ensure you do the exercises the Physio recommends to help strengthen your recovery.

    Exercises before and after breast reconstruction

    The links that Christina has offered will certainly help prepare yourself physically and emotionally

    Sending a virtual hug

    Take care

  • Christina_BCNA's avatar
    Christina_BCNA
    Community Manager

    Hi Penonce​ , thank you for reaching out with your question. As we wait for others to share their lived experience with SMX and implant, I just wanted to share some helpful articles below we've got on breast surgery and recovery tips. This is just general information, but definitely helpful to keep in the back of your mind :) Please keep us posted how you go if you feel comfortable, and don't hesitate to reach out to our Helpline on 1800 500 258 if you need to chat about anything in the next fortnight (or afterwards). You've got this 💪

    Mastectomy surgery

    - Breast implant surgery

    Your hospital stay for breast cancer surgery

    - Tips to be more comfortable after surgery

    - Pain after breast surgery