Post-op expectations

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Hi, I had a lumpectomy and slnb on Thursday and came home the same day. Over the weekend the pain was manageable with paracetamol and ibuprofen and I started the exercises as instructed. However, today (day 4) the pain has increased, there is more swelling and bruising and both numbness and pain in my armpit. The nurse is due to visit tomorrow and in the meantime advised taking stronger pain relief.  I’m pretty sure I’m getting myself in a state of anxiety over nothing but would be grateful to hear of anyone else’s experience. 

  • I would phone your bcn for advice, good the nurse is coming and will check. Take the stronger pain relief, you could also phone the MacMillan support line and speak with one of the nurses. Take care xx

  • Hi. I noticed that rye pain got worse as the days went on. I think it’s the nerves starting to come back to life. It was hard to explain. When I put my arm down on anything it felt like a burning sensation. I also had swelling between the boob and armpit. I could cup the lump in the hand. This made it feel more uncomfortable. What did help me lots was a hot water bottle. I’d lay flat for an hour each morning and afternoon with my bra undone and the heat on it. It helps the blood supply and also seemed to help the lump go down. I’m sure what you’re feeling is probably normal. Day 4 is definitely when I started to feel more. Hope you start to feel better soon 

  • Thank you so much for your reply Mary4004. I think I was overthinking things but it’s so good to hear from someone who felt the same. I have sat with the bra undone at times which helps - I will try the hot water bottle too. Thank you - I hope you are well on the way to recovery now.

  • Hi. 


    I think we all overthink  it’s hard not to worry etc  

    I wasn’t so lucky. I went back in on Sunday as the margin want clear and the lymph node that was taken came back positive. I had more taken and a full auxiliary clearance. It’s not as bad as I thought, but have a drain and will be hoping I don’t get any complications. Now the wait again to see it it’s all been taken. 

    good luck. I hope the warmth helps 

  • Sending you a big hug and positive thoughts. Waiting is the hardest thing isn’t it x