Worried about pain and swelling 8 months post op

Hi -Ana-

I can't answer your question as I didn't have a mastectomy, but it might be an idea to give the Macmillan line a call just to get their general advice re what type of bra to be wearing.  They obviously won't be able to give you any advice re what is clinically right or wrong, but will I am sure be able to offer advice as to how to support yourself whilst you wait for the appointment on 4th July.

Kindest Wishes, Lesley

Hi. I had mastectomy and lymph removal. 23 nodes. That was a year ago. I’m still suffering with pain /stinging in armpit and a tender torso. I have red blotches on my back and an aching shoulder blade. I’m sure I have fluid that’s upsetting my body. I have an appointment next week to ask re lymphoedema in the torso and pain. I was told that yes it can suddenly come on but I wouldn’t expect it to go down that quick. Did you carry something heavy that could of caused it? I pulled my chest and was concerned that this could have caused lymphoedema. 

Yes it hasn’t happened again so I’m wondering if I pulled something? Maybe it was a minor injury - after all, that side of my body’s been through a lot. 

If it’s gone down it can’t be lymphoedema. However I’m no expert xx

Hi I had lumpectomy last august post chemo then radiotherapy. Also had MICAP reconstruction ( tissue used from below breast). Had the usual pains and aches but just few weeks ago I had been lifting heavy plant pots and gardening. Couple days later I had ache and stingy breast, pains in shoulder and down same side. It eased after a week as took regular painkillers. Then I felt a lump just under the scar area where tumour was. Well… that was me convinced it was back etc. i seen the surgeon 10 days later. Examined, mammogram on both sides as due to have in august anyway, then ultrasound. It was just scar tissue from surgery and they showed me on screen. Surgeon said quite normal to feel aches and pains months after surgery etc and doing too much can exacerbate things. I went back to wearing my post surgery bra and wore it in bed also when I had the aches from gardening I must add. Try not to worry is easier said than done. Wishing you well and hope you are reassured very soon xx

Hello Ana,

It does sound hard what you are going through after all this time.  I am 10 weeks post Mastectomy (no Reconstruction) and usually get swelling under Armpit and pain across the Chest after being out or doing a bit more. I still can't wear the Bra and Prosthesis for longer than an Hour. 

I guess it's always worth getting checked out if it's something that has suddenly just started, but it's hard to wait when you are worried.  Have you spoken to Breast Cancer Now?  Or the Nurses from this Site?  They are usually very helpful.

I know at the moment there seems to be a long wait for Breast Care Nurses to even call back which is a bit of a worry.  I wish you well.  .xx