Prehab or Prehabilitation: The Smartest Way To Optimising Recovery After Breast Cancer Surgery

Recent research continues to highlight the crucial role of physical and occupational therapy in supporting recovery after surgery, particularly for individuals undergoing breast cancer procedures. The spotlight is increasingly on not just rehabilitation after surgery, but also on the benefits of prehabilitation – a proactive approach that prepares patients physically and functionally before their operation.

What Does the Latest Evidence Show?

A recent study examined the outcomes of patients who participated in outpatient prehabilitation (prehab) compared to those who received rehabilitation only after surgery. The findings are compelling: individuals who engaged in prehab physical or occupational therapy experienced reduced upper extremity disability and reported a better health-related quality of life (HRQOL) following breast cancer surgery. While both the prehab and rehab-only groups showed significant improvements post-surgery, those who underwent prehab enjoyed superior results, particularly in upper extremity function, overall physical functioning, and their ability to participate in social roles.

Prehab: More Than Just Physical Preparation

One often overlooked, yet vital, aspect of prehabilitation is the mental and practical readiness it provides. After surgery, patients are often dealing with pain, fatigue, and the emotional toll of the experience. The last thing anyone wants at that moment is to be overwhelmed by learning new exercises or trying to process a flood of instructions. Prehab gives therapists the opportunity to familiarise patients with their recovery plan ahead of time, ensuring that when the day after surgery arrives, patients are not only physically prepared, but also mentally ready to execute their recovery plan with clarity and confidence.

This preparation extends to caregivers as well. Involving caregivers in the prehab process means they know exactly what to expect, what to do, and what signs to look out for that might indicate something is amiss. This shared understanding helps make therapy more effective and provides reassurance to both patients and their support networks.

Rehabilitation Remains Essential

It is important to note that rehabilitation after surgery remains a cornerstone of recovery. The study found that both prehab and rehab-only groups made significant gains following their procedures. However, the added advantage of prehab suggests that integrating therapy before and after surgery provides a more comprehensive pathway to optimal recovery.

Implications for Patients and Care Teams

For those preparing for breast cancer surgery, these findings reinforce the value of early engagement with allied health professionals such as occupational therapists and physiotherapists. A tailored prehabilitation programme can address individual needs, set realistic goals, and empower patients to take an active role in their recovery. This is especially relevant in Singapore and the wider region, where access to multidisciplinary teams can make a significant difference in patient outcomes.

At Lifeweavers, the approach is to combine the expertise of senior clinicians across multiple disciplines, ensuring that each client receives coordinated, evidence-based care tailored to their unique circumstances. This model aligns closely with the growing body of research supporting the integration of prehab and rehab services to maximise recovery and quality of life.

A New Standard for Surgical Recovery

As the evidence base grows, so does the call for a shift in how we approach recovery from major surgeries like those for breast cancer. By embracing both prehabilitation and rehabilitation, patients and care teams can work together to achieve the best possible outcomes – not just in terms of physical recovery, but in restoring confidence, independence, and overall well-being. The mental clarity and preparedness that prehab provides can make all the difference, setting the stage for a smoother, more effective recovery journey for both patients and their caregivers.