Returning to work after a mastectomy

Hi 

I  had lumpectomy in July and lymph nodes removed in August due to a big soroma I had a wound that was taking a long time to heal, only finished having dressings changed in mid Oct. I actively looked for work and started a new job in Sept still tired and emotional so be good to yourself and rest when you can, I was lucky to have my husband to do most of the housework. 

Wow, 2 weeks is pretty quick. I was advised to take 6 weeks after lumpectomy, I took 5 in the end and maybe could have managed earlier, but I am so glad I had the time to rest and recover. Remember your body has been through major surgery, take time and be kind to yourself, best wishes 

Hi,  Two weeks seems very quick.  I had 7 weeks off work for two lumpectomies and SNB.  Was meant to be off for 3 weeks, then after results had to have another lumpectomy.  Must admit I too felt guilty taking the extra time.  Had never been off sick apart from an odd day now and again.  So I know how you feel at the moment.  But as the others have said, take time for you. Rest and get your head around it all before you go back.  I found it quite hard going back to be honest.  But it has got better week by week.  My colleagues have been great.  You have been through a lot.  I wish you well xx

thanks for the input, been such a blur, after routine mammogram, called back within 10 days, and then right boob mastectomy on the 12th, with the  3 flippin lymph nodes they removed coming back positive.  so advised chemo and radiotherapy is a given, got a bone dye/scan tomorrow then ct scan monday so all happening so quick, which is freaking us out, but glad they are on it, same, work have been great, but sure i wont be back in the next couple of weeks depending on results which i am worried about, not sure what the average time off should be, appreciate each case is different

thank you all for listening xx

Wow that sounds like such a whirlwind for you the last few weeks, wishing you all the best for recovery from surgery, and sending love and strength during the time of waiting for results - that's the hardest I  have found - the waiting - I think I just prefer to know - even if that's hard too! xx

Thanks Orchid23 Today I'm grateful rather guilty for this extra time - I've sat and had coffee with a podcast. I've walked and I'm focusing on good nutrition and taking time to breath - I'm feeling better physically and emotionally from doing this and today I'm also feeling I'm doing the right thing giving myself this time - everyday is different hey! x

Thanks Irishgirl16 - today it feels good to give myself this extra time

Thanks shazcarmon243 - I have a 12 and 9 year old in charge of my housework! Sending strength - starting a new job is hard at the best of times. x

is hair loss a given with chemo, can see different thoughts on the cold cap, mine will not be tablets, dreading all of this, the not knowing is awful, feel like in limbo, sending hugs to all xx

I am going in positive for a new hair style.... short, very short..... in fairness I used to have a grade one to the back and sides when I was working.  But have heard the caps can be a little painful.  I am just trying to go with the flow, if I have to change to suit then I will change.  In fairness my Daughter in law had a double mastectomy and lost her hair with chemo, originally she had long hair.....but she looked really cute with short hair