2nd breast been investigated/ Liquid in other breast area

Hello Michelle. On the fluid: I had a left mastectomy last November too, and I had fluid drained four times before it settled. The first time it was done on the surgeon's initiative when she saw me two weeks after surgery for a check up. The other three times I had to request it, and the nurses were not always keen to do it. The last time was done under ultrasound guidance and the person doing it was surprised at the amount she got.

On the other hand, they say that the body re-absorbs the fluid in the end (but it does take a while,) and the draining procedure carries a certain risk of infection, so deciding whether or not to drain has to be made on individual merits each time newly, even for the same patient. If you are in a lot of discomfort or pain you can certainly request to have the fluid drained.

About the other breast, did they say why 4-6 weeks? I am used to hearing, "Pathology results should be back in 2 weeks," but I also know from recent experience that this is not always the case. Is it that they are giving a more realistic prediction of how the lab in that area works or does this have something to do with available appointments?

Hi 

Thanks for replying, The wait is due to Covid and apparently our hospital sends the biopsy's off to America to be analysed why I don't know. Hence the long wait. If the fluid gets larger then I will defiantly call the Breast care nurses, Like I said its under my arm this time. I have already had it drained once. I had to cut the support bone out of my mastectomy bra last week as it was digging in me. I asked hubby if the fluid was going into my back and he said yes it was. So for now we will keep an eye on it. Yes it is uncomfortable at times. Thanks x

Thanks for explaining. I find out more and more that different hospitals have different protocols for certain things, but one thing seems to be common -- we have to advocate for ourselves, sometimes against opinion from the medical team. I am always open to what they tell me, but when it is down to an opinion rather to an established medical fact, I don't hesitate to stand my ground on those occasions when I feel it is right to do so. 

I hope things get better soon.

Yes I’ve got it more on my back, underarm and ribs, side of breast. It feels bruised and very sensitive to the touch. I was told to keep massaging it, which I am and if it’s not gone in a month to contact plastics again, hope yours goes down soon too xx