Day 16 post-opWow! When you are pre-op and hear everyone post-op talking about swelling and scar tissue it doesn't really sink in. Trust me on this one - it will when you start to experience it!
So the last week has been a bit of a rollercoaster where the look of my chest is concerned. Whether it is swelling or scar tissue i dont know
I think its the later though because its hard and lumpy and visible if i stretch my arms about my head. I've started massaging the area... too early? Anyway heres some pictures... i'd love some feedback because the look of the chest isnt ideal but i totally understand this is textbook healing and that it is going to take time ... lots of time! On the plus side... apart from a little scab like bit on the right the nipples are looking good...
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I took my plasters off at day 8 and showered normally (without plasters and letting water over the excision sites) from day 12. I am only wearing the compression vest(s) at night, from about 7 o'clock onwards and during the day i am wearing a nike compression vest, its not overly tight so i'm thinking of investing in something a bit tighter. I've started light cardio (2k jogging)and done a few light sets of arms twice from day 14 onwards. Swelling and what might be scar tissue have formed from about day 11-12. I can lift my arms over my head without any pain in my chest, there is a light stretching feeling that seems to be the bodies way of telling you not to overdo it! I'm still taking Arnica and Bromlain (?) daily. My nipples still lack sensation and my left one seems to have trouble getting stimulated (hard) when rubbed or cold. I have started massaging from day 15. Pain in the chest is limited to the areas that seem to have hard tissue under the skin.
Bare in mind everyone heals differently so these times may be different for you but i hope that helps some guys who are planning to go through with the op get an idea of timescales.
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@ thetodd! Seriously
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@ buddhaman, headheldhigh01 and everyone for reading - cheers!
pics up soon