Hi i had a DIEP 8 days ago and today have noticed it feels more swollen than a few days ago. Pain in my armpit and a couple of tiny blisters have appeared . The flap looks ok. I’m just worried about the swelling and the tiny blisters.
Anyone experienced this?
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Sounds like you may have a reaction to the dressings . Swelling is normal and takes a good while to settle down . Give the ward a call where you had it done and they can check it for you . There is a Facebook group called DIEP reconstruction Uk that you may want to join …. Loads of info on there x
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I had blisters from my dressings. Do keep an eye on them as mine turned necrotic. It was all fine in the end, but i have extra scarring because of it. You’re only 8 days post op, so very early days. They will be having you in to check you weekly so ask any questions. I’m sure everything will be fine in a few weeks for you. X
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Im going in this week…hopefully nothing to worry about. How do you know if its necrosis and how did they treat it for you? X
Hi @sarahjenny. The area where the blisters were looked yellowy and moist. They gave me special dressings which were infused with silver. Healed in a few weeks. It was on the scar line up from under breast to the diep flap, but only about 1 to 2 inches in size. Its when its very large or goes black that it can cause issues. Hope all goes well. X
Hello sarajenny
Thanks for your post. It’s understandable that you’re concerned about the swelling and blisters which have appeared since your recent surgery.
Immediately after surgery for breast cancer and in the weeks that follow, it’s common to feel some swelling, pain and discomfort .You may experience different sensations such as a burning feeling and numbness in the scar area and under the arm. Having pain may make it more difficult to do arm exercises and maintain a good range of movement. As healing takes place, these effects usually subside. For most people this happens within a few months. Although you have a follow up appointment soon, do call your breast care nurse or reconstruction nurse to let them know about the swelling you have.
The blisters may be a result of sensitivity to the dressings, as @bluesatsuma and @edna experienced, It’s, therefore, important to also report this to your breast care nurse or treatment team, as they are best placed to assess your wound.
We offer a range of free supportive services for anyone who has had a diagnosis of breast cancer which you may be interested in. They include face to face and online courses and events.
You may also find the organisation Keeping Abreast helpful.
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