WLE and SLNB yesterday

FormerMember
FormerMember
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I had a 0.8mm melanoma removed from the top of my thigh - stage 1B. I had my mapping on Thursday morning and yesterday I had my WLE and SLNB. It seemed to go well and the SLNB (groin) was quite close to the WLE so it’s pretty contained. I feel ok today (just drained) and I’m having paracetamol and ibuprofen. Should I put my leg up on the sofa or just act normal. I’m pretty mobile so I feel better than I thought I would. They said I can drive after 48 hours and I have an automatic car so don’t use my left leg anyway. 

I have to go back in two weeks to have my dressings off and she will write with results in three weeks. She has signed me off work for three weeks too.

Any advice or experiences to share? I feel a bit lost about what I should be doing!!

  • Hi , I’m glad your procedure went well and that the worst that you feel is a bit drained. I can’t answer your leg up on the sofa question from personal experience, for my node removal my stitches were across my pant line in 3 places. I think I put my feet up when I was resting but was told to keep active, but reminded that although my scars were small that for me they had done deep into the groin and there would be healing inside to be aware of. I found two weeks after my op is when I had some tingling they explained that was the nerves trying to heal. That sensation occasionally comes back if I sit with my legs crossed after having a long walk. 

    Three weeks off work how lovely for you, I bought a video box set that I saw in a charity shop intending to watch them after my op in March they are still unopened. I hope you have something to occupy you during the time off. I think as far as exercise and resting goes be kind to your self but not totally inactive, look out for any signs of swelling. You don’t mention if you drain, I didn’t and as I had laparoscopic surgery I was encouraged to keep being active but told not to drive for month and no jogging or hoovering or bending for  few weeks. I think all our experiences might be a bit different due to age, depth and place. I know I didn’t miss the hoovering !!

    best wishes

    Take care KT

  • FormerMember
    FormerMember in reply to KTatHome

    Thanks . No I don’t have a drain. I will take it easy as I do feel a bit wobbly. I think I’m relieved I don’t feel worse but like I said, I was lucky (!) where the melanoma was situated. It’s easier to heal where the WLE and SLNB are. I was told not to drive for 48 hours, not to lift anything heavy or do exercise for 6 weeks. And I was signed off work for 3 weeks although I may not need that long. Thank you for replying