Scars

I recently had a lumpectomy and sentinel lymph node biopsy. They used tissue from my back to fill the gap so I have a very long scar from just below my breast to my back. All this was explained to me prior to surgery however it was most probably because I asked for full details of what would happen on the day right down to the technique they would use for the stitches.

Though I’m no expert, I am of the view that every surgery will be different depending on what you had done right down to the position of the lump being removed. 

It might be worth calling your breast care nurse who can perhaps provide information/ reassurance and support as needed. Plus there will be lots of people sharing their experiences on here as well.

Best wishes 

Just to add I also have a scar in my armpit where they removed the lymph node, maybe 5cm.

Hi Tash150 , I was really shocked at the length of my scar too. I’d previously had a lumpectomy to remove what turned out to be a benign fibroadenoma, and my scar was just about 2cm. This time, my lump was in a different section of my breast, and the surgeon used the same incision to access my sentinel nodes. So I had one long incision down the side, about 4-5 inches long. I couldn’t believe it! But it healed well and caused no problems. Definitely a shock though. I think as Ruva  has said, each operation is different, depending on the size, depth and location of the beast. 
Have you got more treatment to follow? Love and hugs, HFxx

Hi I had sentinel lymph node removal in August which left a scar about 2-3 inches long between my armpit and breast.  It will probably fade in time but if you are still concerned, check with your breast care nurse.  They will probably say that it is normal though.

I had a mastectomy which is still healing so my scar will be different.

I think I'm having radiotherapy just to be sure but I'll find out more on the 21st when I'm back at the hospital 

Glad  that your op went ok.  I had two lumpectomies August/September.  Have to admit the scars were bigger than I thought they would be.  One under my arm is about 2” and the lumpectomy scar about 3”.  They used the same wound for both.  Healing well and in time will fade, so not too bad.  Wish you well if you do need to have radiotherapy.  It is ok and the staff look after you very well.  Xx 

I had my surgery in October and it sounds to me like our scars are about the same size … the one in my armpit was lower than I expected it to be and larger x

Hi

i had my lumpectomy and node removal at the end of August. I have a small scar at the base of my armpit but my main scar is 6cm across the top of my breast . It’s a constant reminder of what I have been through and I do struggle looking at it  each day .Im hoping in time the scar will fade more and be less noticeable . 

I think what I find harder to handle is that I now have one boob obviously smaller than the other, I hate looking in the mirror and shower super fast… I’m hoping these feelings get better in time x

same scar about same size as you say just in front of my armpit so you can see in the mirror, also a scar along nipple as it was close and on top. one side a bit of a dent and nipple points diff direction, in so e ways nicer than other but lost some sensation