I had mastectomy and Breast reconstruction with an implant 6 weeks ago , had a bit of fluid which the doctor treated with antibiotics (3 courses) stopped antibiotics 2 weeks ago and the swelling has come back , it gets worse at night , and my scar is started to be uncomfortable ? Is this normal should I go to see the doctor again? Appointments are always in the morning so swelling not so bad and I think he will just say it’s fine . Also bruise on breast still there .
Hi Notme,
Thanks for getting in touch and welcome to our Online Community, I hope you’re finding it helpful
I’m Rachel, one of the cancer information nurses on the support line.
I’m sorry to read about the problems you’ve been having since your mastectomy and reconstruction surgery.
A certain amount of bruising, swelling and discomfort can be a normal part of the healing process and should improve within the first 6 to 8 weeks after surgery, but as your swelling settled with antibiotics and has now come back and you have a new pain in your scar area, we’d certainly suggest you arrange to see your GP and/or breast cancer team again as, any new, ongoing or worsening symptoms should always be checked out.
If the breast or scar feels tender, swollen, warm to touch or looks red, there’s discharge from the wound or you feel generally unwell with a raised temperature, you may have another infection. If that’s the case we’d suggest you contact your GP, breast care nurse or specialist straight away as you may need further antibiotics. If you can’t get hold of them today and you have any of these signs call NHS 111, they’re available 24 hours a day. They can assess you and arrange treatment if necessary.
It may also help to contact your breast care nurse and discuss your symptoms with them. They can arrange for you to be reviewed in clinic, if necessary, to see if there’s any other cause of the swelling such as a seroma (collection of fluid) in the breast. These often resolve by themselves but if they’re not going away or are causing discomfort the fluid may need to be drawn off using a needle and syringe. The nurse can also check the area around your scar for you.
I hope this helps
Please don’t hesitate to get back in touch if you’d like further information or support.
Best wishes
Rachel
Cancer Information Nurse Specialist
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 email us.
Ref: RC/AR
