Lumpectomy after-effects

AlohaGirl

Marianna, I don't remember exactly when I started running.  I know I had a false starts before I really could run (at tried walking and that generally worked OK but even that caused too much bouncing the first few days).  I would guess about three weeks, but I'm not really sure.  And at first it hurt too much and I couldn't run more than a couple of blocks (mostly scared me because I felt a pulling sensation inside my breast and I was worried I'd do damage, probably not realistic but that is what it felt like).  But once I tried the two bra solution (so I wore two very supportive sports bras, one on top of the other) it worked much better.  Also, I didn't try it but running on a treadmill might be doable sooner.  I say that because when I first started running again I noticed that going even slightly downhill was more uncomfortable than flat or uphill.  (Of course, maybe that is just the way I run, who knows?)  I'd definitely try walking first and see how that goes.  Also, I tried using a recumbent bike at the gym during that time and it was a good way to get some exercise with no bouncing.  Good luck!  I hope you have a speedy recovery!

northerngirl2012

Its been 5 weeks since my surgery...im having sensitivty issues and short sharp pains in my nipple that just started today. My treatments start next week on the 26th....pretty scared

BLinthedesert

Northern, I am so sorry to hear about the sensitivity issues.  I never had that problem, but I did (and actually still do, though not nearly as often) have the sharp pains.  Actually, I had issues after my ultrasound guided vacumn biopsy too!  If they are "normal" healing pains, they will go away with time, if you ever have constant pain, or your breast feels hot to the touch (except during radiation when this will be normal) then you will need to call your BS - so they can evaluate you for infection.  

Good luck, often the anticipation of treatment is worse than the treatment, I hope this is what will happen for you. 

ro-berta

notherngirl, hi, what treatments are you starting hon? I just finished rads about 3.5 weks ago. I also had sharp shooting pains shortly after my surgeries. It is very common and feel free to ask your med. team any question or concerns you have they are there for you. Take a deep breath, you are not alone. there is lots of info on these threads and the ladies are very supportive . Besides we have all been there or going through it ourselves. I know for myself I have learned so much and have received so much support.I myself just happened to stumble onto this site after my surgeries and i am glad i did. We are here for you , feel free to P.M anytime and take a look on the dcis threads it will help.

              roberta

CTMOM1234

northerngirl - Ah, I'd nearly forgotten about those alarming "comes out of nowhere" jolts until I saw this post. I definitely had them and recall someone at the time posting that it is quite normal and it's simply the body healing and nerves adjusting. I am coming up on nearly 3 years since my lumpectomy, and I can attest to the fact that those pains will subside (and you may even forget about them like I'd done).

Wishing you the best. 

northerngirl2012

Thank you ladies...i was pretty sure that the pains were a healing of the nerves. After reading a couple of post of nobody having sensitivity I got a bit nervous but feel better that some of you have felt the same thing. I start Chemotherapy next week....1 session every 3 weeks for 6 sessions followed by 5 or 6 weeks of Radiation. I dont know what im scared of the most Cheo or Radiation.  But Im pretty young and healthy and have a pretty positive attitude, and fantasic support from family and friends (well most of my friends) My grandmother is a survivor, she had a masectomy about 20 years ago and is now 74 and doing great I have faith that thing will be work out.

Catherine

I had a lumpectomy on a Friday and was back at work the following Monday.  It went much better than I had anticipated and there was little pain.

edithesther

Just found this forum, glad I did.

Lumpectomy and lymph node removal nine days ago. Felt great straight away. Tiny jabs of pain last few days but nothing that bad.

 Bought really supportive bras a few days ago and feel more secure now as I am a  DD cup. Results of lumpectomy next Thursday. 

NSJ2

Wishing you great lumpectomy results next Thursday, Edith!

edithesther

NSJ2, thank you so much, will report back Thursday.

NSJ2

After lumpectomy (1+ week) anyone have the feelings like beginning of a cold, throat feels funny like maybe swollen glands (not necessarily sore throat), achy but no fever?

edithesther

NSJ2, I had funny throat week after, was told that might happen due to tube used in operation for breathing. Went after a few days.Achy could be because of position they put you in during operation. I found a nice soak in a warm bath really helped. Hope you feel better soon.

ro-berta

Hi NSJ2 I also had a funny sore neck throat. Like edithesther stated it was do to the tube inserted for the operation. Mine lasted quite awhile especially after my re-excision. I also felt real punky I gave myself a time line as to how long I was going to feel this way and if it went on longer I would go to DR. and have it checked out ( or if i started feeling worse) So take care girl hope you feel better also.

Beesie

Add me to the list.  The tube they insert so that you can breathe during surgery really did a number on my throat!  

NSJ2

How far down the throat do they put that thing? Dang.

And you know something else that has been happening to me ever since my diagnosis (post biopsy). I have these tingles throughout my entire body, like when the hair on the back of your neck stands-up after hearing or seeing something remarkable. It happens at least once a day for no reason whatsoever - fullbody-tingles.

Anyone else?

NSJ2

I checked with one of the attending nurses in surgery. She told me that I didn't have an "oxygen tube" in my mouth at surgery, but they used an "airway" that goes down your throat. She said that can cause soreness.

Anyone know what an "airway" is?

edithesther

nsj, it is a tube to keep your throat open and clear as far as I know, nothing to do with oxygen.

NSJ2

Oh, I see. Thanks so much for the info, Edith. I had no idea that was going to happen in surgery.

Do you know, is this "airway" thing metal?

NSJ2

Sending you good thoughts for tomorrow's results, Edith!

edithesther

Hi nsj2, thanks for that. Feeling some relief. All the tumour removed, not spread to lymph glands. Knew I would have radiotherapy but also need chemo as well, that was a bit of a shock ! but consultant says this is just insurance against anything like this happening again. Have been out to celebrate with a lovely meal. Onwards and upwards as they say.

Not sure what airway thing is made of, but sure if you google them it will tell you. My throat fine now but had been told it may cause it to be a bit sore. Hope you are feeling better ?

NSJ2

Hi Edith

Congrats on tumor removal and clean lymph nodes!  Awesome news!  

I can imagine adding chemo to your treatment was a bit of a shock for you. And as you said, it just helps with ensuring they're doing everything necessary to eradicate it. Did they do an Onco on you I wonder?  Did they say how many chemo treatments you may need hon?

Regarding the "airway", the first week+ (8 days) I had no signs of any discomfort from the "airway" thing. But, after I stopped taking meds, my entire throat felt raw and on my left side felt like something was missing in my throat. Too bizaare. And I still have occassional but minimal jaw muscle pain and rawness. Today is 15d post surgery. Sheesh.

edithesther

NSJ2, Thanks, I have to see Oncologist soon. Six months chemo was mentioned and not sure how much Radiotherapy.

sorry to hear about your poor throat, probably someone been a bit heavy handed putting in the tube and it maybe grazed your throat ? If it doesn't get better soon I would defo see a Doctor.

Regards.

Anonymous

I had 3 lumpectomies ( with the 3rd considered at partial mastectomy ) and I had very little pain.

 Although because I have large breasts I even wore a bra in the shower for a week or so. 

 Because I am large breasted I found the Enell bra Light to be a life saver for feeling support.

The doctor could not get clear margings so I have a bilateral mastectomy sheduled for October 17th in Seattle.

fontanalucy296239

ruthbru, I loved your comment as I just had a lumpectomy a few days ago and my surgeon took a lot of tissue around my already large lump so I ended up with a quarter of my boob (the cleavage area) looking "deflated". I hope fat redistributes and I don't require reconstruction. I will wait a year to decide but you gave me hope 😍