Physical Therapy After Mastectomy: What You Need to Know

Written By Shabnum Brar

A mastectomy is a life-changing surgery that often marks a major step in the journey through breast cancer or preventive care. While the focus is usually on removing cancer and healing the incision, many patients don’t realize that rehabilitation after mastectomy is just as important for long-term recovery and quality of life.

At Ilaaj Physical Therapy and Oncology Rehab, we specialize in helping individuals recover mobility, reduce pain, and regain function after breast surgery. In this article, we’ll explain how physical therapy after mastectomy can support your healing and help you get back to the activities you love.

✅ Why Physical Therapy After Mastectomy Matters

After a mastectomy (or lumpectomy), it’s common to experience:

  • Stiffness or limited shoulder range of motion

  • Scar tissue or tightness across the chest

  • Lymphedema (arm or chest swelling)

  • Pain or numbness

  • Postural changes and weakness

  • Fatigue from cancer treatment

These symptoms can make everyday activities like dressing, reaching overhead, driving, or carrying groceries difficult. That’s where a skilled physical therapist trained in oncology rehab makes all the difference.

🧠 What to Expect in a Post-Mastectomy Rehab Program

At Ilaaj, your physical therapy is tailored to your unique surgical history, treatment plan, and recovery goals. A typical program may include:

  • Gentle manual therapy to reduce scar tissue adhesions and fascial restrictions

  • Targeted stretching and mobility exercises to improve shoulder and chest movement

  • Postural retraining to reduce strain and promote alignment

  • Strengthening of core, back, and upper body muscles

  • Education on lymphedema prevention and early detection

  • Breathing and relaxation techniques to reduce tension and support healing

📅 When Should You Start Physical Therapy?

Every patient’s timeline is different, but many benefit from starting PT within 2–4 weeks after surgery, once cleared by their surgeon. In some cases, pre-surgical physical therapy (known as “prehab”) is also recommended to improve post-op outcomes.

If you’re already weeks or months out from surgery, it’s never too late to start rehab—chronic tightness, pain, or swelling can still be addressed effectively.

👩‍⚕️ Why Choose a Specialist in Oncology Rehab?

Not all physical therapists are trained to treat post-mastectomy or oncology-related conditions. At Ilaaj, our clinicians are highly experienced in:

  • Post-surgical breast cancer recovery

  • Lymphedema management and risk reduction

  • Radiation fibrosis, cording, and fatigue

  • Compassionate, trauma-informed care

We understand how sensitive and personal the recovery process is, and we’re here to help you feel safe, supported, and strong—every step of the way.

📍 Serving Patients in the San Fernando Valley

Ilaaj Physical Therapy and Oncology Rehab is proud to serve individuals recovering from breast surgery in Tarzana, Encino, Woodland Hills, Calabasas, Agoura Hills, Sherman Oaks, Westlake Village and surrounding areas. We offer one-on-one, private sessions in a calm, welcoming space.

💬 Ready to Start Healing?

If you’ve recently had a mastectomy or lumpectomy—or are preparing for surgery—early physical therapy intervention can significantly improve outcomes and help you return to the life you love.

📞 Contact us today to schedule a consultation or learn more about our post-mastectomy rehab services. (818) 47-ILAAJ (45225) or info@ilaajpt.com.

Shabnum Brar