Ok so, im 3 and a half weeks post op for a mastectomy, reconstruction and ANC on my left side. This morning, when getting dressed i noticed that i have swelling between my neck and shoulder on the left side. Its not huge but its noticeable once you see it. It feels soft, and i cant feel a lump or anything.
Ive emailed my breast consultant and hes said he’ll see me on the 29th of may (this Wednesday) but i am FREAKING out.
Im so worried that after everything its travelled to my lymph nodes in my neck.
Does this sound worrying or am I looking too much into it?
Oh bless you - I can understand your anxiety , I E been there . A few months after radiotherapy I developed a lump and I had pain and a pulling sensation right across from the lump down my arm to my elbow . I also was freaking out. It turned out to be fat necrosis that had formed into an oil cyst which eventually absorbed into my body . The point I’m trying to make is that it’s probably a consequence of surgery or treatment and sounds like it could be a collection of fluid . Wednesday may seem like a long time from now but it’s not and I’ll have my fingers crossed for you. Xx
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Thank you! Yeah its been pretty stressful. Funny thing is, ive been relatively calm during this whole process and then noticing that lump today just brought it all screaming back to me. Never a dull moment in this journey for sure!! 
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I have the same thing. My surgeon saud it was nothing and either a fatty area or a swollen area due to all the surgery anf exercises etc… it’s hard not to worry but at least you’re being checked. X
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Omg really?? Thank you so much for replying!! Thats really put my mind at ease!! Its been playing on my mind all weekend, just niggling away in the background.
Ive become a professional at masking the anxiety now for the sake of my son and my hubby but its exhausting.
Thank you for letting me know you had the same thing, I really appreciate it xx
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Hi Zaran
Thanks for your post. It is understandable to be worried about the swelling you have noticed between your neck and shoulder.
You mention having had a mastectomy, reconstruction, and axillary node clearance over three weeks ago on the same side you now have the swelling. As @joanneN and @bluesatsuma say it could be because of the breast surgery and part of the normal healing process.
Having noticed this swelling, you have since contacted your treatment team, something we would always suggest doing. They can assess you, check the swelling and recommend treatment if you require it.
We offer a range of free supportive services for anyone who has had a diagnosis of breast cancer which you may be interested in. They include face to face and online courses and events.
Do call our helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. The helpline team have time to listen, talk things through and signpost you to more support and information if necessary. 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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