Pain changes after lumpectomy and lymph node removal

Hi,

I had a lumpectomy and lymph node removal 2 weeks ago. I am still in pain but the pain changes. I started out with not too much pain after surgery then about 6 days out I started having bad pain under my arm and breast pain especially when I moved around. I had to hold my breast with my hand to get relief. I got a sports bra and that helped some then 2 days ago I started getting zapping type pain in my breast. I have been taking Tylenol or ibuprofen  round the clock. It helps some but not entirely. I feel mentally exhausted and thought  I should be better by now. Luckily I don’t work and my husband is super supportive. Has anyone else’s pain change as you heal?

Yes , I had this - I think it’s as the nerves start to heal. Have you checked it with your surgeon / nurse just to be on the safe side ? There’s always the possibility of fluid build up making things more painful and infection so having someone have a quick look for re-assurance would be a good idea .x

Hi Lololauri,

The pain you’re describing sounds normal to me. 2 weeks out from surgery it’s very early days. I was still getting pains and sensations over a year later ranging from zapping pain, dull achey pain, pain when I moved a certain way and some numbness in the armpit. 
im nearly two years post lumpectomy and I still get the odd zap now and then. 
I hope the rest of your recovery goes well x

Hi I’m the same after ten days painwise. The first few days weren’t bad. I know everyone is different but so much info online says you’ll be “back to normal” soon. I can also feel nerve pain right down to my wrist and sensations round my shoulder blade and the back of my arm. My two week appointment is online because of covid so I’ll have to remove my strips myself, and our health centre is understaffed so only dealing with emergencies. Thankful for my husband who has enforced rest and recuperation upon me. I just wish I had bern told how tender and careful we have to be and that i had realised this was more major surgery at the beginning.