Hello everyone, I’m Cat, I’m posting because I’m feeling very scared. I’m due to have surgery on 11th December – a 34 mm lumpectomy along with some calcification removal. I couldn’t tolerate the pain of the breast compression during the vacuum biopsy, which was the worst experience I’ve ever had.
The entire area is about 92 mm, and I don’t know yet whether the calcifications are benign – I understand that can only be confirmed once they’re examined under the microscope.
I’m very worried about the surgery as I’ve never had an operation or been in hospital before. I’m trying to stay calm, but I’m feeling extremely stressed.
The unknown can cause anxiety along with the fact you’re dealing with a cancer diagnosis, so quite understandable.
When you arrive at hospital, lots of staff will be coming and going organising everything. Depending on where you are on the list, you may have several hours wait, take something with you to fill the time. I was walked to theatre, so slippers and dressing gown were needed.
Take some clothing that you can slip on easy i.e. a button up top. A soft bra or crop top will make post op more comfortable and while you have limited movement. You can also wear this to bed to give support.
You will be surprised how quickly you can move your arm, but remember not to over do it, and to follow the recommended exercises. I invested in a V-pillow after a few uncomfortable nights and it made sleeping better.
It’s easy for me to say now, but the process was a lot better than I expected. I didn’t feel any discomfort until 24hrs after surgery, and I was given codine for that. I did get panicky when I got to the theatre, but the team were reassuring. I didn’t particularly like the oxygen mask, but again they were patient with me and within a minute or so, I was asleep.
Hello, so sorry you find yourself here and you are so worried about your lumpectomy. Sadly I cant give you any real advice as I’ve not had mine yet. Mine is also due the 11th Dec
I was told by a few ladies at a local charity to find a small pillow that can be put under your arm so that the journey home is a little more comfortable. I think it just prevents your arm from squishing against your boob too much.
Ive almost packed my hospital bag. I have a light weight dressing gown as I know they put you in their hospital gowns straight away and they arent very flattering with all the open flaps haha. Ive got a small hand sanitiser, some lip balm and a book to read whilst I’m waiting. I might change this for a sudoku book. Ive got front button pjs so I dont have to worry about putting a tshirt over my head and I have a front zip bra top thing to wear. Although I don’t know if I need this or not as I assume we come out bandaged up.
Its not exactly the over night bag I wanted to pack this Christmas but I feel better being prepared.
Hello, surgery is definitely easier and much less painful than a vacuum biopsy. I agree with you totally it is not an easy procedure at all.. You really should have minimal pain after surgery which can be managed by simple pain relief. I was discharged the same day and went home with no problems. You will be guided through everything by the hospital staff but it will be much more manageable than you expect. I hope it all goes smoothly for you.
Dear Cat, I had my lumpectomy last week. The hardest part was fasting for so long. The recovery has been easy and relatively pain free ( if you are a car passenger, you might want to protect your breast from the seat belt). Honestly I could enter the Worry Olympics and be a gold medallist btw, but oddly this surgery was far less worrisome than I expected, plus, it feels good to get the lump out! All the very best.xxx
I had a lumpectomy last year and, like others have already said, it wasn’t nearly as bad as I had feared. I was last on the list so lots of waiting about. This isn’t much fun when you’re anxious and hungry, so my tip would be to go outside and get some fresh air. I got a headache due to the lighting and only realised after hours and hours that I wasn’t a prisoner and so could go for a walk and some daylight! Felt much better after that.
I wore clothing I wouldn’t usually wear in public(!), joggers and a zip up hoody, front fastening bra. Never made it into my pyjamas as got into my gown immediately before walking to theatre and then got dressed again straight after. I found a cushion was more hassle than anything in the car so abandoned that and basically crossed my arms and kind of cupped myself for the bumpy road bits! I didn’t experience any pain as such, a bit uncomfortable for a couple of days but nothing ibuprofen and paracetamol couldn’t ease. A decent supportive bra for recovery is a must and helps to feel protected. Do the exercises!
I know it’s scary, but you’ll be well looked after. I hope everything goes well and wish you a good recovery. x
Agree with all the helpful responses that others have put on here about doing what you can to be comfortable while in hospital. Once you are there, the process takes over. You will have your final checks and the staff are very good. I even had someone waiting with me while I was waiting to go into theatre who kept me talking to try and distract me. Once you’re in it all happens very quickly and you don’t have time to panic. If you are worried about coming round after don’t be. They put a pain block in so you don’t feel any immediately after and staff are there all the time to look after you and help you to the loo etc. My first wee was bright blue - I thought it was Harpic in the toilet but it’s the dye they put in to help with the op. One other tip. Eat/drink everything they put in front of you. My blood pressure dropped but eating and drinking helped sort it. Everyone is scared but you are not alone! All will be well xxx
I just wanted to echo what everyone else has said so far. I had my lumpectomy surgery 3 weeks ago and it was completely fine, I was well looked after and it wasn’t stressful on the day at all. I had a long wait as my surgery got a bit delayed but my worst complaint was that I was hungry.
Once I woke up in the recovery area I couldn’t believe it had already happened and I’m sure it will feel the same for you. It’s feels like big deal for you since you’ve not had an operation before (I was the same) but the surgeon, anaesthetist and all the nurses do it everyday and know exactly what their doing so you’re in safe hands.
My advice is to get comfy button up PJs, a big comfy cushion/pillow and a good series or movies in mind to watch while you recover. I was a bit sore the day after but the pain meds had me sorted.
