Hiya I had a double mastectomy on Wednesday 3rd December so only just over a week.
I had nodes from right side taken but none taken from left, my main concern is how swollen under both arms around the back so kinda the fatty area that annoyingly sits above what would be your bra. My arm pain/nerve pain in my arms is really painful but massage is helping but these swollen areas are really sore.
Just wanting to see if this is normal??
Hi claspe,
Thanks for posting
It sounds as though you are having a difficult time with pain and swelling so it’s natural to wonder if this is to be expected.
Following surgery for breast cancer, recovery and side effects can vary from person to person. Immediately after the surgery and in the weeks that follow, it’s common to feel some pain and discomfort. Many people find it necessary to take regular pain medication until the pain starts to settle, especially in the early weeks after surgery. You may also experience different sensations such as a burning feeling and numbness in the scar areas and under the arms. Swelling is common after surgery and will usually settle after some weeks bur this can vary. Some people can develop a collection of fluid called a seroma, often in the armpit or chest area, and this is usually reabsorbed by the body over time.
If you have not already done so, we would suggest that you talk to your treatment team about the pain and swelling as they may want to see you to check this or they may suggest how it can be managed.
You may also find it helpful to speak to someone else who has had a mastectomy and lymph node surgery. You can do this through our Someone Like Me service. They can match you with a trained volunteer who’s had a similar experience to you. You can be in touch with your volunteer by phone or email and they can share their personal experiences to help answer your questions, offer support and listen to how you are feeling.
You can ring the Someone Like Me team on 0800 138 6551 or email them at someone.likeme@breastcancernow.org, so they can match you to your volunteer.
You are welcome to 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 additional support and information if necessary. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks.
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Best wishes,
Eve
Breast Care Nurse
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