Hi all it’s 3 weeks since my surgery on my right lung 20/8/24 I was discharged from hospital 4 days later with a drain bag . On 30/8/24 I had the drain removed I am still seeing the District nurse once a week for dressing change . On pain meds and it’s making me very constipated even though I’m taking senna twice a day .I still have pain and discomfort starting behind my right breast under into my armpit going around my back . I am finding it difficult to sleep which has always been a problem. I am trying to take a walk every day I do get breathless and I have to rest . I really want to know how long is recovery likely to be if anyone has had similar.
the following is what i have had done
Right uniportal VATS lower lobectomy + wedge of upper lobe, nodal dissection and cryotherapy, Right - chest
Hi! I’m Ann. I had a left lower lobectomy, 9 months ago. I still have numbness and discomfort @ the VATS sites, which extends around the front of my mid area. I’ve heard some patients mention it could take up to a year for some of these after effects to normalize.
You’re still in the early phase of recovery. It’s great that you’re taking walks- but lessen them a little before you get breathless. Your lungs are adjusting to take over the lung tissue that was lost. I remember sleeping being uncomfortable on the operation side. I mostly slept on my back and opposite side. My body felt hard to move the first 3 months. I bought a side rail to put on my affected side so I could reach across my body and pull myself up. It made my life in bed so much more successful, getting out on my own.
My answer to your question is that I remember feeling almost normal 6 months after Surgery. I had my first 6 month CT scan and it was ‘clear’. So good news. That helped my Mental Health.
I wish you continued recovery, less pain and good luck. 
