Post Lumpectomy

I think it takes a few weeks Sue.  Like you I felt anxious that I was still sore but also my boob felt so lumpy and swollen. I started using moisturiser as soon as wound had healed and did gentle massage. Once I started this the discomfort definitely faded and the lumpiness went down.  I think emotionally we are terrified that everything is not healing after surgery. As long as the wound isn’t red and angry I think you are probably just recovering normally. I was told that when they do lumpectomy, they cut through nerves and also move things around to keep the shape of your breast as much as possible. This can take months and months to heal. Rest assured things will get better. Are you doing your exercises as these will help too.

Evajean x

I feel your pain.  I think, by trying to downplay the whole breast cancer thing, I underestimated the effects of the op itself.  I had my opp on the 13th October.  I’ve just started getting pain when extending my arm.  I’m still numb.  I still have swelling and occasionally I have very down days.  I’m still waiting my results which probably isn’t helping.  Good luck and hugs x 

Hi SueS

Your definitely not being impatient.  As Evajean says, it can take months before you 'forget' that you had an operation. The exercises are vital.  I had an 80mm lumpectomy 5 years ago and although it wasn't months of being really sore and tender  (it eased as time passed and I'd roll over in bed and not wake myself up by lying on my operated boob), it was definitely several weeks that it was sore if I accidentally laid on that side.  

I was so surprised that it wasn't just like a broken limb, where 8 weeks later - back to normal, It was a year later, when I lifted a heavy bag of shopping and suddenly realised that it hadn't hurt! 

Hope it eases up soon for you.

Kindest wishes, Lesley

Mine was 28/10, x

Hi Sue,  mine was around  the 6 week mark before my discomfort disappeared.  I had a hematoma which contributed to the discomfort.   I was really sore for about 4 weeks especially after being in a car.   Use a pillow under your arm to help.  The BC nurse gave me one that had been donated.   I am still sleeping on my back and I’ve noticed I am fatigued as I guess I am still healing.