Hi everyone, I had a single mastectomy two weeks ago today. The scar is healing well but my non-breast is full of fluid and is now hard. It’s almost as big as it was before. Has anybody experienced similar? I have Seen my practice nurse and spoken to my BCN and both say the same, that it’s pretty common, any advice would be welcome as it is starting to get me down. thanks in advance
Hayley xx
Hello Hayley. I had what they called a seroma. Basically the body fills the space with fluid. I had a single mastectomy & within 10 days blew up. I was advised its common & should disappear in time. It can be drained if it becomes too uncomfortable. Your BC Nurse will be able to advise on this. Wishing you a speedy recovery & hope this helps xx
Mine did exactly the same three times and my surgeon drained it. Twice just in clinic and then a third time while I was having my port installed under general anaesthetic.
I started chemo the day after the last one and the seroma never came back. I suspect it was actually the steroids given for chemo that helped it stay away that time rather than it being drained again.
Mine really hurt at times, hence the draining. Mention it to your surgeon. They should see you and discuss what’s best. X
Thank you for your reply, I was worried that it would delay further treatment so your messages have put my mind at ease.
x
Hello Hayley
Thanks for posting.
Its understandable the swelling you have on your mastectomy site is getting you down.
As you will have seen from @suzie19 and @swk1981 replies it sounds as if you might have a seroma. These are quite common, and its good this has been checked by your practice nurse and breast care nurse.
They do usually disperse in time, but some people may need to have them drained as @swk1981 did. If the area swells more or restricts your ability to do your post op exercises do contact your team again.
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Jane
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