Quilting

Hello, Judith. I had a left mastectomy and node biospy on 7th August and my surgeon used the quilting technique. I wasn't expecting it, but he explained the technique to me afterwards. It's literally what is sounds like, a number of stitches are put in to hold the skin over the underlying tissue, like a quilt. It does look a bit lumpy but is supposed to help with fluid build up and in my case meant I didn't need a drain, which was awesome. I've not had my steristrips off yet, so not completely sure, but I don't think it would make the scar lumpy, as the stitches are placed quite far from the incision. I have one right at the top point of the tear drop breast shape, which is actually annoying as it pulls when trying to do the exercises, and then a few more across the breast area towards the armpit. I'm pretty happy with it to be honest, as it does seem to have avoided the need for a drain and I don't have hardly any fluid building up so far. They said if I did, I could pop in and get it drained off, but there's hardly anything.

Hi Judith, I was 'quilted'! I did however have a drain after the mx but there really wasn't very much fluid collected so got it removed ASAP as it was just annoying.  My scar is really neat and is not at all lumpy or puckered and wasn't from the get-go.

Hope your scar is equally well behaved.

Sam

Thanks HIJ75.  This is so helpful to have detailed description as I haven’t been able to find much to read about it.  Not having a drain will be a great bonus, and you have explained it so well I feel very encouraged.  Keep making good progress!

hello Sam,

Thanks for such a positive reply.  Yes I’m opting for a well behaved scar!

Judith

I'm glad I was able to reassure. There isn't much about quilting online, but you can find scientific papers to read if that's your thing ;-) Most suggest it's very effective for fluid retention. All the very best for your surgery x

Hello everyone,

I'm due to have my right mastectomy and lymph nodes done shortly. Just waiting for the date to come through. Didn't know about this technique so very interesting. One to ask about I think.

Thank you for sharing,

xx

Hope you don’t have to wait too long for a date to come through.  Don’t be afraid to chase and get your GP to chase as well if you are waiting more than a few weeks.  I found the waiting quite stressful.  I still have two and a half weeks to wait now but at least have a date.