I had a mastectomy and auxiliary node dissection and reconstruction done on the 24th. Going for my first follow up with the PS today. My new breast, especially under arm are swollen, does not hurt but concern....how long will it take to go down?
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anonymous
Survivor since 2011
Did you have a drain? The purpose is to drain out the fluid (that my doctor called "weeping) so that it doesn't collect. I had mine out after 8 days, and my doc told me that even if fluid did collect it would be harmless. Eventually the body would reabsorb it. If it's a lot of fluid and it does start to cause discomfort then they can easily use a needle to drain some of it. Doesn't sound pleasant, but I am sure it provides relief! Good luck! -
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anonymous
Patient
I had the same in February 2012, and I didn't notice the swelling gone until late May actually. The numbness is still in several areas which my doctor told me may or may not go away. Good Luck and be patient on your recovery, it takes a while. You had Major surgery which by all standards takes time.-
anonymous
Patient
Thank you Monica.
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anonymous
Stage 1 Patient
I am so sorry you are having this problem. Don't let it get out of control. I had a lumpectomy and axillary dissection. My swelling in the armpit began and continued to swell until I couldn't put my arm down by my side. Then I got an infection that lasted about six weeks. I am left with an area of numbness in my armpit and down my arm that is the size of my hand. The pain has been unbearable at times. So. . .stay on top of this with your surgeon. -
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anonymous
Stage 2B Patient
Any time you invade the nerves, you can get inflammation. The time frame will depend greatly on your diet, rest, and can even be effected by the humidity and moon positioning, of all things. Patience is something I am struggling with in my recovery. I want to be done with all this and wake up one day to not thinking about the fact that I have had my breasts removed in the first waking moments. Hang in there. Hugs and encouragement and prayers being lifted for you.
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Related Topics
- Stages
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- Swelling
- Reconstruction
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- Implant
- Axillary Node
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anonymous
Patient
Thank you Erin, yes, I have drains, they will be removed this Friday.
anonymous
Survivor since 2011
Having them removed is SUCH a relief! You'll feel like a free woman again once you can shower and roll around! Haha! :)
anonymous
Survivor since 2009
Hi jc, I had my right breast removed in Feb/09 and like you I had drains in following my surgery. I had 26 lymph nodes removed as well and as a result had to keep my drains in for almost three weeks! The reason for this was so the fluid...
Hi jc, I had my right breast removed in Feb/09 and like you I had drains in following my surgery. I had 26 lymph nodes removed as well and as a result had to keep my drains in for almost three weeks! The reason for this was so the fluid collecting, that would normally be removed by my missing lymph nodes, could be removed. Once your drains are removed you will have a bit of swelling under your arm and perhaps in your arm and hand. I went to my physiotherapist once my drains were removed as exercise helps the muscles pump the fluid from the tissues into the veins so it can be removed. There are also compression "sleeves" that your doctor may recommend to stay on top of the swelling. This being said, three years after my surgery I have been fortunate to now have only a little swelling under my arm, and strangely enough in my right index finger! lol One thing for sure, it will take time and support to get back on track. Good luck with your recovery and wishing you all the very best!
anonymous
Patient
Thank you Diane and Erin, I am looking forward to be able to roll over at night...haha
anonymous
Stage 2A Patient
Hi Erin, I had a bi-lateral mastectomy 3 months ago. I didn't have too much swelling under the arm but you could be experiencing Lymphodema. This happens when lymph nodes are removed. The swelling should go down in time. If there is fluid (alot)...
Hi Erin, I had a bi-lateral mastectomy 3 months ago. I didn't have too much swelling under the arm but you could be experiencing Lymphodema. This happens when lymph nodes are removed. The swelling should go down in time. If there is fluid (alot) then they may recommend an ultra sound to confirm then they can drain it with a small needle. Keep your doctor informed.