Radical vulvectomy recovery

I’m new to the group even though I am 12 weeks post op.  I too still have discomfort in the groin area.  I had problems with my left lymph node.  

I'm so sorry about your lymph nodes complication! I know that can be pretty debilitating. 

How long after surgery before you could actually sit in a chair? I find that, even with a donut, if I'm in a chair, I have to be so slouched that my weight is on my back, not my butt. And getting up and down from any position is absolute agony. I have a follow up appointment tomorrow with the surgeon, so I guess I will know more.

I fully sympathise with you.  I am 13 weeks post op after a radical vulvectomy and removal of sentinel nodes, one from either side.  My left groin is still swollen and does ache.  I was told it would be 6/8 weeks recovery but I am still having tenderness when sitting and my walking distances are not back to normal.  It did feel like I was sitting on a pin cushion, with the pins sticking upwards!  I still sit on a cushion when having meals at the dining table.

Progress does seem slow but, when looking back, I realise that there has been progress.  The main thing is to listen to your body, rest when you need to rest.  We will get there.  Good luck.

I still have problems sitting on hard chairs. Have to get up and move about regularly . Much better on the sofa. I know how you feel getting up and down out of the chair.  I am mostly ok with that now it took a good 6 weeks though. Hope you get on ok with your follow-up appointment.

You are absolutely right about listening to your body. When you think what you’ve been through both physically and mentally.  I dithered about accessing this support group but I am so glad I have as reading posts that relate to how I’ve been feeling and not feel so alone.  Thank you for replying xxx

Hi there,

it takes a fair while to recover so patience and listening to your body is key,just go at your own pace and not to frighten you too much but I carried a cushion around with me for months afterwards,after all comfort is paramount. I may have been an extreme case but I couldn’t drive for three months after and still sit on cushions after 10 years….I’m a skinny thing though and don’t have any cushioning of my own lol.Wishing you well x

Thank you! The pin cushion analogy is a perfect description..ouch.

Thank you for sharing your experience with me. It's good to know I'm not alone

Thank you. Yes, the couch has become my " go to" place to be! 

My appointment today went well. All sutures are healing nicely with no Infection, and the doc is not surprised about the pain or drainage. She said this is the most painful surgery a woman can recover from. Now it's a matter of getting the inflammation under control. Tylenol, motrin and ice it is!

I'm so glad to know I'm not alone, and grateful for this group.

You are welcome, just ask if you want any further info