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Male breast cancer

FormerMember
FormerMember
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I an a 56 year old male who has recently been diagnosed with breast cancer and i have had a mastectomy on my left breast.

I was operated on 17 days ago and had my stitches removed four days ago.

My question is regarding my scares.There were two incisions  one for my left nipple which was removed and the second was under my arm for investigation of my lymph nodes .

How tight should the scar feel .It is uncomfortable and feels like its constantly pulling.Also the wound under my arm is not healing s well as the main scar. Its slightly open and a little bit pussy.

Is this normal.I am cleaning the wound under my arm daily with Betadine and dressing with germaline and sterile dressing.

I am applying Cicalfate on the second scare twice daily.

  • Hi Rex57

    Thanks for contacting Macmillan Cancer Support and welcome to the online community.

    I’m sorry to read that you’re having some difficulty with your wound following your surgery.

    Some people can develop scar tissue in the armpit after lymph node removal. The connective tissues in the armpit get inflamed, which forms one or more tight bands.

    The scar tissue is called cording and it can feel something like a guitar string.

    Although, cording is harmless it can be painful and limit your arm movement. Massaging the area regularly can help. People are often referred to a physiotherapist. They can show you how to massage the area and teach you stretching exercises.

    It’s difficult for nurses on this platform to say exactly what is causing your symptoms. However, any new or worsening symptoms should always be reviewed to determine the cause.

    We would encourage you to contact your Consultant / Clinical Nurse Specialist for review of your individual situation today. It’s important to tell them about the puss. You may require antibiotics to prevent a wound infection.

    I wonder what other support you have at this difficult time.

    You may feel isolated if you do not know any other men in the same situation. Breast Cancer Now have a ‘someone like me’ service. You can talk on the phone or by email to another man who has had breast cancer.  

    We also have an online breast cancer group. Many people find the peer support of others in similar circumstances reassuring to have.

    Maggie’s also offer some emotional advice and online courses that can help anyone affected with cancer.

    We are offering free one-on-one counselling with a qualified Bupa therapist, who has been trained in supporting people living with cancer. Do you think this is something you would be interested in? If so, please get back in touch and we can arrange this for you.

    I hope that this information is helpful. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch if there is anything, we can do to support you.

    You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email. 

    Best wishes

    Annemarie

    Macmillan Information Nurse Specialist 

    Ref: EMc

     

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