Operation scars and chemotherapy

Hello, I have only just found this forum and really wish I’d known about it earlier, particularly in those weeks of waiting for full diagnosis and surgery when I was overwhelmed with fear and sadness.
I had a bilateral mastectomy with reconstruction in early January and made a quick recovery.
However I started Chemotherapy 2 weeks ago (FEC) and noticed to my horror a couple of days ago that a section of the scar on one side had opened and was oozing puss. I mentioned it to my oncologist yesterday who didn’t seem too concerned. I’m really worried about this. Has anyone had a similar experience and could it be connected to the chemotherapy?
Best wishes to everyone

Hi lella

Welcome to the forums. You’ve come to the right place for support as many of the users of this site have a wealth of information and experience between them.

While you are waiting for replies can I suggest that you give our free helpline a ring on 0808 800 6000 and have a confidential chat with one of the breast care nurses who are here to support you through this, lines are open to Monday to Friday 9.00 – 5.00 and Saturday 9.00 – 2.00.

best wishes
June, moderator

Hi Lella
Welcome - you’ll find lots of help here.

I’m not in the same position as you - I had bilat mx and recon in Dec, but my tumours were small and I’m not having chemo. However, I had an infection after initial surgery last summer and would encourage you to speak to your BCN or your GP - if it’s an infection, you need to get it cleared up, esp with the chemo.

All the best

River

Hi Lella

had slightly different experience in that I had chemo first and then bilat mx (no reconstruction). My wound reopened both sides - one very slightly and that was stitched on ward but one I needed a short trip to theatre. My oncologist was adamant it was nothing to do with chemo but my surgeon was sure it was. I think it was too as I’ve had for other things in the past and always heal exceptionally quickly, or so I’ve been told.

All I’d say is go straight back to your surgeon. If they catch it early it may not even need any resuturing but sounds like it may well need antibiotics. As River says you don’t want infection whilst you’re on chemo.

take care
Elinda x

Thanks River & Elinda for your advice. It is such a relief to hear from people with similar experiences. I too have always healed well and it seems strange that all was well until I started chemo - I feel sure it’s related. I’m terrified of infection as after all I’ve been through I can’t bear the thought of problems with the reconstruction.