How long does swelling last following mastectomy with reconstruction?

Swelling after a mastectomy with reconstruction can last from a few weeks to several months, depending on individual factors such as the extent of surgery, type of reconstruction, and the body’s healing response. Initial swelling is most pronounced in the first few weeks post-surgery but typically begins to subside within 4 to 6 weeks. However, it can take up to a year for swelling to completely resolve in some cases. It's important for patients to follow their surgeon's post-operative care instructions to manage swelling effectively.