I am 3.5 weeks after axillary node dissection and tumour removal. I am told to expect swelling but how much. I have a swollen area about 4-5 inches diameter that feels firm . Is this right or should I get in touch with the hospital that did the surgery. They are 90 minutes car journey away. I am on antibiotics for an infection at lower end of wound.
Hi Ajane71201
Thank you for getting in touch with us and welcome to our online community. My name is Lynsay, and I am one of the cancer information nurses with Macmillan Cancer Support.
I hope you are doing ok following your surgery. I appreciate it can be difficult to know how much swelling to expect, and when to get this checked, especially after being advised that there will be some swelling.
We would encourage you to contact the hospital that did the surgery today. They are best placed to assess this and to arrange for you to be seen if needed. We would expect worsening swelling to be reviewed but equally swelling that is not improving may also need checked.
I hope this is helpful,
All the best
Lynsay
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.
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