I have a wide local excision booked for 29 June with sentinel node biopsy in my left breast. I am also left handed. Any advice please on what not to do with left hand for first few days then weeks after surgery. Advice is to limit weight etc but not sure how much and when that means. Especially as I live alone with minimal assistance.
Had my op, pain after much worse then I expected, I am struggling to do my exercises as much as chart shows. I thought my pain threshold was higher but this has knocked me for 6 I know that my tumour was deep and non palpable but I was not expecting it to be so painful. I live alone and have to do everything for myself, I'm also left handed and it was left boob and armpit operated on. My under armpit. Is very numb I am managing to wear soft crop bra top at night and during day has anyone else experienced this, so many of you ladies seem to be reporting much less pain need some advice and tips as currently feeling very low and sorry for myself.
Hello JOOls I had a lumpectomy and SNB in May and when discharged I was given paracetamol and codeine - what pain relief have you been given? As already mentioned I'd suggest contacting your nurse about the level of pain you are experiencing and also let them know that it is preventing you from fully exercising. I developed a build up of fluid (seroma) which caused a lot of pain and discomfort and it was a huge relief when the liquid was drained. I found that the nurse was happy to take a look anytime that I had concerns so please don't suffer in silence or hold back from contacting them x
Hi J00Is
I had Same operation in may. After did not have any problems with using my arm, maybe a little bit stiffness for the first week but nothing major. I also live alone and no one to help around.
my pain after op was not bad at all but I think pain after op depends on the person and your pain tolerance. I was given codeine to take at home when needed, and didn’t take a single one. Also I found it easier to have really tight spots bra on. With the looser one it felt worse and when showering it felt like my boob is about to be ripped off but I am 38H size so there’s a weight to it ;) so for me tighter was better.
Good luck and hope you’ll recover fast
Whatever cancer throws your way, we’re right there with you.
We’re here to provide physical, financial and emotional support.
© Macmillan Cancer Support 2025 © Macmillan Cancer Support, registered charity in England and Wales (261017), Scotland (SC039907) and the Isle of Man (604). Also operating in Northern Ireland. A company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales company number 2400969. Isle of Man company number 4694F. Registered office: 3rd Floor, Bronze Building, The Forge, 105 Sumner Street, London, SE1 9HZ. VAT no: 668265007