recovering from mastectomy surgery

bill_b_1950
bill_b_1950 Member Posts: 2
in Breast Cancer #1

I had a mastectomy two months ago.  They removed the whole breast and some lymph nodes in the armpit area, but did not remove any muscle.  I have a long incision from under the armpit extending almost to my breast bone.  It still feels sore and tight under the armpit and along the incision.  I'm doing exercises every day.  Under the armpit it also feels swollen.  Wondering how long until all of this will "go away"?

Comments

  • Apaugh
    Apaugh Member Posts: 850 Member
    #2
    takes a long time...
    I had a full mastectomy March of 2016 and I have lymphedema so I get the tightness and lumps a lot. Physical Therapy with a specialist who deals with lymphedema has helped me to loosen up and care for what is going to be lifelong, everyday care for me now. I suggest you ask your oncologist to recommend you to one, they will help you to loosen up the right way, the safe way.

    Hugs,
    Annie
  • ChandraW
    ChandraW Member Posts: 3
    #3
    New too

    I was diagnosed Oct. 12 and had mastectomy and removal of 8 lymph nodes on Oct. 26. I still have the drainage bulbs. UGH. I felt sore constantly, but once the staples were removed it was alot better. Not so much as the brick on chest feeling. Tightness continues but does get better. 

     

  • bill_b_1950
    bill_b_1950 Member Posts: 2
    #4
    Apaugh said:

    takes a long time...
    I had a full mastectomy March of 2016 and I have lymphedema so I get the tightness and lumps a lot. Physical Therapy with a specialist who deals with lymphedema has helped me to loosen up and care for what is going to be lifelong, everyday care for me now. I suggest you ask your oncologist to recommend you to one, they will help you to loosen up the right way, the safe way.

    Hugs,
    Annie

    Thanks for the response,

    Thanks for the response, Annie.  I'm will look into the PT.

     

    Bill

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