Sentinel node biopsy

Hi Pud987, your case sounds similar to mine as I also had lumpectomy and SNB for a grade 2 lump. In my case the surgeon accessed the lump and sentinel nodes via the same incision, because of the position of the lump (upper breast on side of armpit). As a result the incision was a lot longer than I’d expected but it healed well and I think that was why I have no scar actually under my arm. I don’t know if that’s good or bad! I think the main effect for me of the SNB was a weird numb sensation to the side of my armpit, as well as a carpet burn type pain for a while if I touched it. But really nothing awful, and I didn’t need pain killers after the first day or so. So I can only speak for my experience, but I’d say don’t dread it! 
Great news that it’s clearly been caught very early. That’s not to downplay the shock of a cancer diagnosis, it’s a horrible experience but good that there are definitely positive aspects of your particular beast! Sending love and a big virtual hug, keep posting and let us know how it goes. HFxx

Thank you so much for the reply just want it all over & done with now.  Big virtual hug to everyone going through this x

Hi I had WLE and SNB on 6 April. I’ve got 2 incisions. The SNB is at the lower end of the armpit. It’s a bit longer than I expected but the surgeon has located it in a natural fold so I think it will be invisible in the end. It wasn’t too painful. The carpet burn pain described perfectly by HappyFeet1 has been the most irritating thing. It runs up my upper inner arm, and down my armpit to about boob level on my left side. I think it’ feels like a nerve pain. I was warned their could be temporary disruption to sensation post-op. It’s more uncomfortable than painful but I will be very happy when it goes! I’ve got a large seroma from the WLE and that’s been the more difficult thing for me is so far. I was nervous about the surgery but it’s been manageable. Good luck with it and a big hug from me xx

I had WLE and SNB in February and been absolutely fine. My scar under my arm felt very tight at first but it has settled well and looks fantastic now, fading fast. It was also hard underneath but has softened very well. I don't think I'll notice it eventually. I had quite a bit taken out for the lump so have hardness around that scar - apparently breast tissue doesn't like getting disturbed very much so the fat can harden. This should settle over time. 

My oncologist said I was at very low risk of lymphedema with only 3 nodes taken. I was scared at first of cuts on that arm/hand - I'm very outdoorsy, so it comes with the territory, but I have calmed down now. If I have a cut then I put germalene/savlon on it and a plaster and forget about it.

I have found out today I have grade 2 IC, 6th may they doing a lumpectomy and  node biopsy, then another 2-3 week wait for whether I need radiotherapy or chemotherapy..... seems maybe because I'm er/pr negative I may need chemo? I Dont really understand.  

Mine was picked up on routine mammogram too xx 

Sorry about your news it's a big shock when you get told & you dont remember anything they tell you! I'm er/pr positive so will need tablets for 5 years may or may not need radiotherapy depends on the size but told it's very small thank god. Give yourself time to take it all in then write down any questions you have & speak to your breast care nurse. Good luck with it all we are not alone!  x

Hello there,

I am 4 weeks into recovery after a lumpectomy and SNB and am delighted to say I've had no problems. The biopsy was done at the same time as the lumpectomy and the same incision so only one scar. I had no real discomfort post surgery and took no painkillers at all. I had no loss of feeling in my arm and no swelling. The scar had healed nicely after 2 weeks and now is almost invisible. I started the arm exercises the day after surgery and had full mobility after 2 weeks with just a pulling sensation when doing them.

The worst part is definitely the wait in-between appointments. I find it hard to cope with emotionally. I am going for my mapping appointment this week, in preparation for Radiotherapy. 

Try not to worry about the SNB. I wouldn't even have known they had done it! Easy to say, I know. It is a very worrying time.

You will be in very good hands and I hope you have as positive an experience as I have had so far.

Thank you for your positivity I just want the surgery over & done with & the lump out of me! Still anxious & as you say its the wait from appointment to appointment it seems a life time. We are not alone in any of this & its good to have sites like this. x