Hi, I’m new to this forum and not sure if I’m even posting in the right place! My sister has just had a lumpectomy and breast conserving surgery (April 5th). I’m sorry to say aftercare seems lacking. She was sent home same day with very little info about how to take care of her wounds, and is very tearful and anxious as can be expected. It seems she can remove the dressing in the shower 48 hrs after surgery? Is this normal procedure? She won’t see anyone until next week.
Hi Irishred and a very warm welcome to the online community which I hope you'll find is both an informative and supportive place to be.
I'm sorry to read that your sister's aftercare is lacking and that she's not sure what she can or can't do with the dressing. Was your sister not given any written instructions when she left hospital?
It will depend on what type of dressing has been applied. When I had my lumpectomy I had a PICO dressing which had to remain in place without getting wet for a fortnight, so I couldn't shower and just had to have a strip wash.
It's unfortunate that we're in the middle of a long bank holiday as normally I'd suggest that she phones her breast cancer nurse (BCN) to find out how she should look after the dressing and whether she can remove it after 48 hours. Because of the bank holiday, I think it would be a good idea if she phoned the Macmillan Support Line and spoke to one of the specialist cancer nurses. They are available between 8am and 8pm every day and can be reached on 0808 808 0000.
It would be great if you could pop something about your sister's diagnosis and treatment so far into your profile as it really helps others when replying to you and also when looking for someone on a similar pathway. It also means that you don't have to keep repeating yourself. To do this click on your username and then select 'Profile'. You can amend it at any time and if you're not sure what to write you can take a look at mine by clicking on my username.
x
"Never regret a day in your life, good days give you happiness, bad days give you experience"
Hi, sorry to hear about your sister’s experience of aftercare. My BCN told me what to expect and also I was given written instructions from the treatment centre. I would agree with what has already been posted. I was advised not to get my dressing wet for 2 weeks so I showered only one side of my body for 2 weeks!!! I probably would say that until she speaks to her BCN (if you haven’t already done so) to keep it dry. Your sister is blessed to have your support as it is an emotional time. I wish her the best of luck on her journey 
️
