Hi,
I found it really helpful to read others experiences here so now have my own to contribute. I had an amelanotic melanoma removed from my left calf a couple of months back. 0.8mm breslow - stage T1b. After expecting just a WLE follow up, I found out last month I’d be having SLNB also. This procedure was done yesterday and I was able to leave hospital late afternoon (operation was first thing in the morning). I’d had a scintigram the day prior which found 2 lymph nodes in my left groin. My surgery went fine although they were unable to access the top lymph node as it was too deep and the closer lymph node was the main first one in their opinion, which they got out no problem at all. I think my surgery took about 2hrs based on what I can recall. Very minimal pain - more just tightness in the calf. SLNB wounds (x2 since they were so distant) were painless. Today I feel a bit tired and tiny bits of pain if I move in a certain way, but otherwise fine. No issues with swelling of leg although a funny sort of numbness in the area around where the lymph node was removed, but I’ve read on here that is quite common. Booked in for a follow up with surgeon in a couple of weeks when hopefully the results are in.
Overall pretty smooth process. Of course I’m expecting some pain to appear over the next few days, and have been prescribed medication for that as needed. I understand that I need to take it easy for a while. I like to run and walk in the hills so will have to be extra patient with my leg to heal. Does anyone else here who had had a WLE on leg also have any memories on how long it was before they could go on bigger walks, jogs, runs etc.
Thanks
Hi NZTrailRunner and a very warm welcome to the online community which I hope you'll find is both an informative and supportive place to be.
That's great to read that you're making good progress after having a WLE and SLNB on your leg. Like you, I had an amelanotic melanoma but mine was on my arm so I can't help with how long it'll be before you can start running again.
There are lots of people in the group who've had surgery in the same places as you so hopefully they'll pop on soon to share their experiences with you.
While you're waiting for replies, it would be great if you could pop something about your diagnosis and treatment so far into your profile as it really helps others when replying to you and also when looking for someone on a similar pathway. It also means that you don't have to keep repeating yourself. To do this click on your username and then select 'Profile'. You can amend it at any time and if you're not sure what to write you can take a look at mine by clicking on my username.
"Never regret a day in your life, good days give you happiness, bad days give you experience"
