A. Gradual functional exercise of the upper limb on the affected side. Functional exercise is essential to restore the function of the shoulder joint and eliminate edema, but the order of gradual progress must be strictly observed, and should not be advanced arbitrarily to avoid affecting the wound healing. The gradual method: 1, 1-2 d after surgery, practice fist clenching, finger extension and wrist flexion; 2, 3-4 d after surgery, forearm extension and flexion; 3, 5-7 d after surgery, the affected hand touches the opposite shoulder and ipsilateral ear (the affected limb can be supported by the healthy limb); 4, 8-10 d after surgery, practice shoulder elevation, extension and flexion to 90°; 5, 10 d after surgery, shoulder joint climbing wall and apparatus exercise. The functional exercise requirement was that the upper arm on the affected side could be straightened and raised around the head to touch the opposite ear within 2 weeks. The functional exercise should be continued after the standard is achieved. Shoulder abduction is limited for 7 days after surgery. In cases of severe flap necrosis, avoid significant exercise for 2 weeks after surgery. If the subcutaneous fluid or drainage exceeds 50 mL 1 week after surgery, the number of exercises and the range of shoulder motion should be reduced (limit abduction). After breast reconstruction with a skin graft or latissimus dorsi flap, shoulder exercises should be delayed. Prevent or reduce upper extremity edema. The circumference of the affected upper limb is generally considered to be less than 3 cm longer than the circumference of the contralateral upper limb as mild edema, 3-5 cm as moderate edema, and greater than 5 cm as severe edema. (1) Prevent infection: keep the skin on the affected side clean; do not perform invasive operations on the affected arm, such as blood sampling and infusion; wear loose gloves when washing to avoid prolonged contact with irritating detergents; avoid mosquito bites; dress, wear jewelry or watches loosely. (2) Avoid hot environments: avoid burns; do not apply hot compresses to the affected arm; do not overheat the water when bathing; avoid bright light exposure and hot environments. (3) Avoid weight bearing: avoid lifting, pulling and pushing heavy objects; avoid heavy physical labor or more strenuous sports activities. (4) Other: restore arm function as soon as possible; wear an elastic cuff when traveling by air. (5) Self-care methods for lymphedema: Mild or moderate lymphedema: elevate the arm; bottom-up centripetal massage along the lymph node; do arm function restoration exercises; wear an elastic cuff. Severe lymphedema: wear an elastic cuff; physical therapy. If the arm becomes red or abnormally hard, or if the edema is severe, an infection should be considered and anti-infection and symptomatic treatment should be given.