When is healing complete after a bi-lateral mx?

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ThereIsHope
ThereIsHope Member Posts: 62
edited June 2014 in Stage I Breast Cancer

I had a bi-lateral mx on January 5th of this year.  Sentinel node biopsy initially showed node involvement, but it was a false positive.  By that time, they had removed 13 lymph nodes.  I just made a visit to the ER over the weekend with redness in the surgical area and fever.  It most likely was cellulitis.  They removed fluid (lots of it).  I am on an antibiotic for the next two weeks after receiving an IV of antibiotic in the ER.  My chest is so sore.  I'm filling up with fluid again, which I did expect would happen.  The redness is gone. How long does this stuff go on? It was easier recuperating from two knee replacements and a hysterectomy compared to this!  I'm a bit discouraged and feeling guilty about even complaining because it isn't that big of a deal really.  Any comments from those of you who are recuperating or those who remember what their recuperation perios was like.  Thanks ever so much. 

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  • NatsFan
    NatsFan Member Posts: 3,745
    edited February 2010

    Hi Hope - sounds like you hit a rough patch with the cellulitis.  I had an easy go of it after my bmx with TC placement and 15 nodes removed - no issues, and went back to work after 2 weeks.  So everyone is different.  Have you checked in with your surgeon about all the swelling?  Did you have drains put in at the time of surgery - those help remove the post-surgical fluid buildup.

    Hopefully your recovery will go well from now on.

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  • ThereIsHope
    ThereIsHope Member Posts: 62
    edited February 2010

    Thank you.  Yes, I've been seeing him every week to two since surgery.  I guess all other surgeries I have had went so much easier.  I did have drains, but they were removed after two weeks because of the increase of the chance of infection.  I wasn't THAT big busted (a C cup) but,  everyone is different.  Just wanted to commiserate with someone who might have had the same problems.  LOL  Just curious:  Did you have chemo?  I'm going to see the oncologist on Thursday to get ready for mine.  My oncotype was mid-range, so it could have gone either way.  I tend to be aggressive in fighting this since so many in my family have had cancer.  Life is good!  I'm ready for spring.  Thanks for responding and have a good evening.  Karen

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  • Jaimieh
    Jaimieh Member Posts: 2,373
    edited February 2010

    I had to have compression to eliminate the fluid.  It took a while I would say at least 5 weeks and after if I thought I had fluid I put the compression back on the area.  Sometimes it just takes time for the pocket to close.  I hope it happens soon for you.  Honestly once that is done I felt so much better. 

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