Mastectomy

Has a mastectomy 6 weeks ago, but I had lymph node clearance as well.  Don’t worry about the op - doesn’t take long and I was home next day. Just need to rest - yes do as you are told ! Do the exercises you will be given to do. I have gradually increased my walking and beginning to feel human again - had chemo before op. The team will get you through- mine were amazing. Good luck.

Get some button through tops - forgot to say ! 

Thank you x

Hi, I wonder what the timeline looked like for you?

As I'm moving cities and have just been diagnosed...everything is moving fast, my new GP did my registration ASAP, and my oncology team was transferring all their data and images and tests.

So, since you've got your diagnosis from biopsy, how long until you got your scan appointments and your surgery?

I'm trying to get ahead and prepare as much as I can.

Thanks!

Natalia

hi I had results Wednesday and just had my CT and MRI scans today. Seeing surgeon on Sept 6th. Then it could be up to 30 days before surgery.

good luck x

Hi did you need to buy a cushion or such like to use in the car (seat belt) or in bed? 

Hi Miss Molly, I guess I would make sure I had button front loose PJs or an oversize button shirt. A mastectomy heart shaped cushion can be helpful and a pillow to put under your seatbelt on the way home. Some charities will post these to you for free, or you can order one online.

Exercise before surgery will aid your recovery and really reduces recurrence risk. 

Afterwards, rest and recover as you are advised. Start your exercises when you are advised and stick with them. It can take a few months to stop feeling tight across your chest wall, but it does get better with time.

Afterwards I used a softie from anita in my bra - I was given one by my BCN. I didn't use a silicone prosthesis till after my radiotherapy was complete.

A good bra with a wide band underneath is comfortable - a sports bra or a special one from somewhere like nicola jane or cancer research UK are all good.

I can just recall being so very relieved that my cancer was gone and found my mastectomy bras and spare parts have never bothered me as that enormous relief has still not left me, even a year on.

Wishing you all the very best for your surgery.

xx

I hope you don’t mind me jumping on. I am in the same boat and having a mastectomy too.  16 September for ne. I am pretty clueless but reading this has so helped.  Huge thank you for sharing.

Hope all goes well and sending virtual hugs 

Good luck with everything. My thoughts are with you. I haven’t got a date for my operation yet but expect it to be sometime in September.

I went to M & S yesterday. The ladies there were delightful, they measured me and fitted me with two post surgery bras on. They are really nice and comfortable. So that’s one box ticked. I have some button front PJ‘s, and also some dry shampoo in my bag. I am normally very last minute, but I’m feeling quite strong at the moment so I want to get everything done.

virtual hugs back x

Ahh bless thank you so much and good luck too.  If I am ahead of you on this journey, I discover anything mentioned that is not above, I will share.  

I know I was told I would need at least 2 weeks off work, physio exercises are a must, that I wouldn’t be able to drive for a while too.

Hey I am so impressed, you very organised, the way I am going I will be last minute. Wow didn’t even know M&S offered that service. By the way I haven’t been googling anything apart from the recommended websites.  I only just found out on Tuesday and was a bit of a shock if I am honest. But onwards and upwards I hope…..

Your strong style is super.  I’m living the motto “life gives you lemons, make lemonade” and with my silly humour…..hoping all will be well for us.  Nice to know you, though wish it were under different circumstances - ha ha.

Thank you so much for sharing too.  

Even more virtual hugs sent right back at ya xxx