Hello

Not wanting to sound flippant but I have just had a mastectomy with lymph node clearance and found it to be a lot less daunting than I expected.  Yes, there is some discomfort and, until I had my drain removed, I had some severe pain (drain was touching a nerve when I moved).  I have a bit of fluid build up (I am nearly 4 weeks post op) but will have that drained when I do to breast clinic next week. 

Hi  My surgeon said the same when wanting me to understand healing time , although more professional in choice of words .

He said mammogram is major surgery but my previous bowel surgery had been mega major . I do have to say he was right I was shocked at how well I felt on morning after surgery. 

Also I have been guilty of saying on here  to people who are worried about the op that I found it a doddle compared to chemo lol .If you wish have a read of my story just click on my name to see it .

We're all different but my experience of Masectomy was straight forward although done very quickly after diagnosis ( 8 days ) so didn't have much time to let my imagination take over .

The hospital staff and BCN kept me informed of all routines so I knew there was a nerve blocker used so I would be comfortable when I woke . My advice would be to take painkillers when offered and ask if you need something more . I had a heart pillow from the hospital brilliant for under arm . I also bought a V pillow for support once at home .

Have a browse around the threads you'll find lots of info and friendly support and chat