Hi, I am 5 weeks post wide excision of a lump in the upper/inner quadrant of my breast. It has been very hard and swollen and bruised. The pain has settled but now my nipple is retracting and changing shape as the swelling is reducing slightly. Is this the normal healing process or should I get it checked out. Thanks for your advice.
Hi weeroge
Thanks for posting.
It is common for your breast to feel hard, bruised and swollen in the weeks after surgery. You say that now the swelling is settling you have noticed that your nipple has changed shape and is retracting. Some people do experience change in the shape of their breast after surgery due to how much tissue has been removed during the operation. Your breast care nurse or surgeon will be best placed to let you know if this is something that will settle over time or is part of normal healing. In addition, we would always suggest getting any changes checked.
Our booklet your operation and recovery has further information which you may find helpful.
We offer a range of free supportive services for anyone who has had a diagnosis of breast cancer which you may be interested in.
Do call our helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. The helpline team have time to listen, talk things through and signpost you to more support and information if necessary. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks. The number is 0808 800 6000, (Relay UK -prefix 18001).
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Best wishes
Louise
Breast Care Nurse
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