How can hospital stay be reduced following breast reconstruction?
In previous years, patients undergoing free flap breast reconstruction procedures (like the DIEP flap) could expect to stay in the hospital for about 5 days after surgery. Now, with the adoption of our Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocol, patients can expect to be home by post-op day 3! Some patients are even feeling well enough to head home by day 2!
Thanks to our ERAS protocol, patients are experiencing less pain and recovering faster after breast reconstruction surgery. One day after surgery, patients can expect to be up and walking and can even eat solid foods! Over the next day (or two if needed), activity is gradually increased to help improve stamina, and patients are discharged once they feel well enough to head home.
“Reducing the hospital stay for our patients is something we are really proud of,” says Dr. Steven Pisano. “Providing the opportunity for patients to rest and recover further from homes is priceless.”
Returning home sooner after surgery benefits patients. Let’s face it, no one likes to be in the hospital. Patients are likely to be more comfortable and get better rest at home.
It is important to note having a helping hand at home is still necessary after returning home. Patients will have post-operative restrictions including no heavy lifting or driving. For this reason, we always recommend patients plan to have family and friends help out around the house following their discharge from the hospital.
“I had a great hospital and surgery experience. I had minimal pain post surgery and I was off narcotics within the first week. I was up and walking within 24 hours of surgery and I was home by day 3, a day or two early! Absolutely loved doctors Ochoa and Abbate! They were so professional and kind. The nurses at the hospital were excellent, they never missed a beat.
I am an oncology nurse practitioner and I have seen the ugliness of cancer in practice for several years and now first hand. PRMA is a beacon of light at the end of a very difficult journey, a true blessing. I am forever grateful. Many thanks. Misty”
Find more information on your recovery and how your family and friends can lend a helping hand here.
Author: Dr. Minas Chrysopoulo and Courtney Floyd
Reducing the hospital stay for our patients is something we are really proud of. The opportunity for patients to rest and recover further from homes is priceless.
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