Things to remember now: Keep shoulder movement below eye level until your drains are removed (usually 10 to 14 days). It is okay to move your elbow, wrist and hand on the involved side as you normally would.

Make sure to lift no more than five pounds with the involved side until the drains are removed.

Exercise twice a day following the guidelines given, unless your doctor instructs you otherwise.

Use your involved arm for daily activities like washing your face and brushing your hair and teeth.

Have help with chores around the house.

Things to remember from now on:

Break down heavy loads into smaller, lighter one that you can manage easily, for eg. groceries and laundry.

Break down vacuuming, scrubbing, painting, stirring and similar activities into 10-minute intervals.

Remind healthcare providers to take blood and measure blood pressure on the uninvolved side.

Use sunscreen to protect from sunburn and use oven mitts to protect from burns. Wear gloves when using strong cleaners.

Keep skin clean and dry. Be sure not to pull hangnails.

Use an electric razor to shave your under arm area instead of a blade.

If you get a cut, scrape or other minor break in the skin on the involved arm, wash with soap and water, then apply an antibiotic ointment (like Neosporin or Bacitracin).

Take care to avoid scratches and bites from pets.

Avoid hot tubs and saunas and avoid staying in the sun for long periods.

Call your doctor if:

You have questions about your recovery.

You ran a fever over 100 degrees.

Your are unable to lift your involved arm overhead, as if to reach a top shelf, by six weeks after your surgery.

You have a bad smelling drainage from your incision, or if the incision feels hot or looks red.

Your arm or hand is swollen or red or if your arm or hand feels hot.