I had bilateral lumpectomy , and sentinel nodes and then radiotherapy inDec 2022. All clear for cancer but
both breasts are bigger and heavier . Is that normal ? will they go back to before ?
Thanks
I had bilateral lumpectomy , and sentinel nodes and then radiotherapy inDec 2022. All clear for cancer but
both breasts are bigger and heavier . Is that normal ? will they go back to before ?
Thanks
Hi Evolve
Welcome to the Online Community here at Macmillan. I hope you find it a helpful place to access support and ask questions. My name is Vanessa, and I am one of the cancer information nurses here at the Macmillan Cancer Support Line.
I’m sorry to hear of your cancer diagnosis but pleased to see that your treatment went well.
Its difficult for me to say why your breasts are bigger and heavier. It is normal for there to be some swelling after surgery and radiotherapy but this would usually reduce with time.
Other potential reasons for an increase is size and weight could be a build up of fluid in the breast.
This could be a seroma. Seroma’s are a build-up of fluid which can occur after surgery although they are normally reabsorbed back into the body in the weeks after surgery.
Another possible reason for build-up of fluid in the breast could be lymphoedema. Lymphoedema can occur as a result of surgery to the lymph nodes under the arms.
If you have an allocated nurse specialist, we would advise that you make contact and discuss your concerns. They will make an assessment as to if they need to review you earlier than planned. They may also give additional advice.
Your nurse specialist may be called a breast nurse or a CNS. Normally you will have been given a contact number for them and advised to phone should you have any concerns.
The nurse specialists are often in clinic so if they don’t answer their phone, please leave a message and they will normally get back to you.
If you do not have an allocated nurse specialist, we would suggest that you contact your consultants secretary and explain your concerns.
A final potential reason for swelling in the breasts would be the presence of infection. This would be unlikely as your surgery was some time ago. This link will take you to information which includes symptoms of wound infection.
If you suspect a wound infection we would advise that you contact your GP or 111 and seek further advice.
I hope you find this information helpful. You can also always call one of our nurses directly if you want to talk over your concerns or require any further support.
Take care
Vanessa G, 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 send us an email.
Ref VG/FS
