Problem with swelling...

CR1954
CR1954 Member Posts: 1,390 Member
edited March 2014 in Breast Cancer #1
Hi All,

I am 2 1/2 weeks post-op for mastectomy and lymph node removal.

Drains came out last week and the doctor said that when the drain holes healed over, I would probably get some swelling in the area of the incision on the chest. I do not have swelling in the arm.

Well, the holes have closed and I am getting swelling just as she said. Pretty uncomfortable.

Inasmuch as the weekend is now here, and it will be a couple of days before I can have anything done if it gets extremely uncomfortable, I am looking for suggestions.

I tried icing, but frankly, that made things even more painful. I tried heat and that does relieve much of the discomfort. However, nothing seems to help reduce the swelling.

Anything I can try?

Any help would be appreciated...

Thanks,
CR

Comments

  • Joycelouise
    Joycelouise Member Posts: 482
    #2
    CR - I had a mas. and do not
    CR - I had a mas. and do not remember having much swelling. If the swelling is from build up of fluids that should have been draining, maybe doc. needs to take a look. And heat can be a sign of infection. Other women may tell you different - this is just my experience. Also, in my experience, healing went pretty fast. And do not think that the scar you see now is the one you will get. Mine continued to fade for months and is pretty unnoticable now by comparison. But please read on for other opinions. love, Joyce
  • marciam
    marciam Member Posts: 1
    #3
    post mas swelling.
    Hi all,

    I also had swelling when my drains were removed. My Dr. had to aspirate fluid at least 4 times. I don't think icing will help. Try keeping a thin pillow between affected side and arm. I received one from American. Cancer society. Also a sports bra helps especially at night. I could not wear any other kind of bra. My Physical therapist made me an insert to put pressure on the swollen area. It helped in between drainings. My chest was swollen all through chemo amnd radiation. It is getting more flat now which is almost a year since my surgery. good luck. I hope this helps you.

    Blessings,
    Marciam
  • mmontero38
    mmontero38 Member Posts: 1,510
    #4
    swelling
    Hi CR: I also had swelling in the mastectomy area after the drains were removed. The dr had to aspirate quite a few times before it stopped filling up with fluid. Don't put hot compresses as that will make you swell up more and be a bigger risk for lymphedema. Try putting a pillow under your arm on the affected side to keep it elevated. That helped me some. Luck to you and hugs, Lili
  • CR1954
    CR1954 Member Posts: 1,390 Member
    #5
    Thank you all...
    Thank you so much for your input. Once again, you lovely folks have come through for me.

    The swelling is no worse today, but is no better either. And it is quite uncomfortable. So I think I shall make a phone call on Monday and have it aspirated. After all, any comfort that I can get these days means a lot! LOL!

    Thank you again!

    Hugs,
    CR

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