266. The Prehab Plan Surgeons Wish You’d Start

In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, host Laura Carfang sits down with Dr. Rebecca Knackstedt, Assistant Professor of Plastic Surgery at Duke University and founder of the popular Instagram community @surgical_recovery. Together, they explore the groundbreaking concept of prehabilitation (“prehab”) before breast cancer surgery—a holistic approach that empowers patients to prepare their body, mind, and spirit for better surgical outcomes.

Dr. Knackstedt shares evidence-based strategies for optimizing nutrition, exercise, sleep, and emotional well-being before surgery, while also offering practical advice on supplements, inflammation, and lymphedema prevention. This candid conversation goes beyond the operating room, reminding us that healing starts before surgery day—and that small, intentional steps can make a big difference in recovery and quality of life.

🎧 What You Will Learn

• The definition of prehabilitation and why it’s a game-changer for breast cancer patients
• Simple, actionable steps to prepare your body for surgery—even if you only start with one change
• The critical importance of protein and muscle strength in recovery
• Which supplements are safe and helpful, and which should be avoided before surgery
• How sleep, stress management, and emotional support directly influence healing
• Practical exercise recommendations tailored to your surgery type
• How to confidently advocate for yourself and ask the right questions of your care team

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About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.