tram flap post-operatively

On October 5,2001, I had a tram flap. I am 34 years old. In 1992 I had surgery for a Cystosarcoma phylloides of my left breast. I had no chemo but I did have 20 radiation treatments. I am left handed and keep my left arm quite limber, but due to having my pecs removed, I suffer a lot of pain, swelling and discomfort. I had the tram flap to cover my chest wall again as my left lung felt exposed in the winter and I wanted my muscles under my arm and on my shoulder to re-attach so I wouldn't suffer as much. In many ways I feel the surgery was successful, but my abdomen swells after certain activities. Looking after children, housework, hanging laundry on the line, and working once a week as a cashier in a second-hand store. My question is: am I working too soon after my surgery, or is my abdomen not strong enough to handle such activities? I believe the top two muscles of my abdomen were relocated for the surgery. I would appreciate an answer as soon as possible. Thank you for your time and effort and this question and answer page. God bless you richly. ps. I am not a nun but a God fearing young lady with the nickname of a nun.

[CCF-RN,MSN-JS]

Dear sister Helen, After abdominal surgery the usual timing to avoid such activities is given as 4- 6 weeks after surgery.  This timing usually coincides with a visit with the surgeon to make sure you are healing as expected and there are no complications.  Even after this time frame your abdominal muscles will be weakened.