Recovery from lumpectomy?

HapB
HapB Member Posts: 527
in Breast Cancer #1

Hi. I am wondering what the recovery is like for a lumpectomy ? How many days before I should make plans? 

 

Thanks.

Comments

  • meschellejensen
    meschellejensen Member Posts: 117
    #2
    Lumpectomy

    Hi HapB,

    I recently had a sentinal node biopsy and a lumpectomy (March 15th).  I was able to return to work after three weeks.  I was still sore, and couldn't really lift anything, but I was able to do most of what my job requires.  Probably the most helpful thing during recovery was the constant use of two ice packs.  I kept one on my breast, and one under the arm where the lymph nodes were taken. I even slept with ice packs.   I was able to get through with only Tylenol and ice.  Another thing that I found really helpful was a sports bra.  I had never worn one before, but it really helped!  I wish you the best!  Please let me know if I can answer any questions for you!

  • HapB
    HapB Member Posts: 527
    edited May 2017 #3
    Thanks!

    Wow, I am surprised. Yes, I am having the same surgery. They told me a couple of days. So, I was thinking if I had the surgery on Wednesday, I could travel on the weekend. I guess no?  Should I buy a sports bra in a bigger size. All I have is compression type Sports bra.  I hope you are doing well now? 

  • meschellejensen
    meschellejensen Member Posts: 117
    #4
    I use the compression type of

    I use the compression type of sports bra. It helps hold the breast  in place when you walk, or ride in a car.  If you can avoid traveling two days after the surgery, I would advise that.  I was still pretty sore riding in the car two weeks after surgery.

    I am doing well now!  Please let me know if there is anything else that I can answer!

  • aisling8
    aisling8 Member Posts: 1,627 Member
    edited May 2017 #5
    We're all different

    so my story may not be yours. 

    I had surgery on Thursday morning and went on my usual three-mile walk the next day with no problem. As a precaution, I'd taken the following week off from work but I could have worked the day after surgery. Don't tell them that:)

    Hopefully your recovery will be as uneventful as mine!!

    xoxo

    Victoria

     

  • HapB
    HapB Member Posts: 527
    #6
    aisling8 said:

    We're all different

    so my story may not be yours. 

    I had surgery on Thursday morning and went on my usual three-mile walk the next day with no problem. As a precaution, I'd taken the following week off from work but I could have worked the day after surgery. Don't tell them that:)

    Hopefully your recovery will be as uneventful as mine!!

    xoxo

    Victoria

     

    Thanks

    From your lips to God's ears! That would be great.

  • HapB
    HapB Member Posts: 527
    #7
    meschellejensen said:

    I use the compression type of

    I use the compression type of sports bra. It helps hold the breast  in place when you walk, or ride in a car.  If you can avoid traveling two days after the surgery, I would advise that.  I was still pretty sore riding in the car two weeks after surgery.

    I am doing well now!  Please let me know if there is anything else that I can answer!

    Well, I better stock up on food then. I will change my plans. I live alone and will have to drive. 

  • meschellejensen
    meschellejensen Member Posts: 117
    #8
    Fingers Crossed!

    HapB,

    I will be crossing my fingers that your surgery is as easy as aisling8's! 

  • peony
    peony Member Posts: 306 Member
    edited May 2017 #9
     

     

    The lumpectumy was a breeze. I had no bandage, no scar to speak of.  I couldn't lift anything and had to take it easy, but I had no pain or swelling.  I was off work for a week, but I felt fine. Hope it goes as easily for you.  

  • HapB
    HapB Member Posts: 527
    #10
    peony said:

     

     

    The lumpectumy was a breeze. I had no bandage, no scar to speak of.  I couldn't lift anything and had to take it easy, but I had no pain or swelling.  I was off work for a week, but I felt fine. Hope it goes as easily for you.  

    Thanks, do I need a week to recover? Were you sick for the week.

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