Hi TDG
Thanks for posting.
The after effects following breast surgery varies from person to person and can include the formation ofscar tissue and sensation change in that area. It’s understandable that you want to find out if there is anything you can do to ease tightness and numb sensations.
Scar tissue forms around a wound as part of the body’s natural healing process and the symptoms you describe often improve within a few months of surgery, so as your operation was recent, these changes are not unusual. However, it is possible for scars to feel hard and lumpy for many years after surgery which is why regular gentle massage can be of help particularly if a scar feels tight and uncomfortable. There is no specific technique other than gentle circular movements with the pads of your fingers along the scar. When to start massage depends on the initial wound healing and any pain and swelling. Your treatment team should be able to tell you when you can start moisturising your scars to help them heal.
People often ask what type of cream they should use to moisturise the scar area.
The type you use will not have a direct effect on your scar but massaging moisturiser into the scar will keep it from becoming dry and helps to make it supple. Many people use simple moisturizing creams or oils such as the bio-oil that you mentioned. Scars, especially new ones, are sun sensitive so remember to use sunscreen with a high SPF, for protection when out in the sun.
As you are having further surgery to your axilla in 10 days time, you may want to check if its ok to start now or to wait until your wound has healed after your next surgery.
Talking to someone who has had a similar experience can be helpful and our Someone Like Me service can match you with a trained volunteer who’s had a similar experience to you. They’ll be a phone call or email away to answer your questions, offer support or simply listen.
You can ring the Someone Like Me team on 0114 263 6490 or email them at someone.likeme@breastcancernow.org, so they can then match you to your volunteer.
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Do call our helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. The helpline team have time to listen to your concerns, talk things through and signpost you to more support and information. 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
Eve
Breast Care Nurse
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