Pleural effusion after mastectomy-scared

Whovian, 

The lat flap may have other advantages.  I went with the implant because it was the easier operation, but I may need more surgery if physical therapy doesn't take care of the contracture, which is more common with implants, especially after radiation.

Carpe - that is good info and that from someone who has had pleural effusions.

Who- just wanted to say this.  Good news on the biopsy being negative for cancer. I know you are concerned that it might actually be cancer and all I can say is to keep on top of this. You are your best advocate. That being said, I had severe pleural (and pericaridal effusions) in Sept 2012. After draining several liters and spending 10 days in the hospital, I worried about never feeling right again. (BTW- I already knew I had mets). Since that time I've been to Ireland for a week, taken my daughter sledding and ice skating, hosted a Christmas dinner for 10 and lots of other things. It took me a good 2 months to feel like myself again. So don't think you'll never feel better.

Two other notes -1.After draining there were small amounts of fluid in my lungs. It took a few months but they did disappear. They did not cause symptoms while I had them. (No pain, shortness of breath, or coughing.) 2. I had cellulitis after a benign biopsy in 2006.  It was the worst pain I have ever experienced as a result of my cancer and I've had lumpectomy/axillary dissection, re-excision, the aforementional biopsy, a double mastectomy, thorancentesis. I had to fight my breast surgeon to take me seriously. Thankfully her partner did. Guess who changed surgeons? Draining it helped a lot. So if it is cellutis or an infection, you'll feel better when it is gone, but you have my sympathies while dealing with it. 

Hang in there. I hope my experience gives you some hope that you will feel physically better in the future, no matter what. 

Hi, my radiation was on the right in 2011 for dcis, after partial masectomy.  After 5 surgeries including 2nd diagnosis followed by dbl masectomy with diep reconstruction (16 hrs) August 2012. I developed plueral effusions on December 15th 2013 which had so many side effects i thought I was dying, trouble breathing,  pain and swelling of joints, kept changing so I wrote them all down.  Went to Pulmonolagist and Thorasic Surgeon, thoracentis was done and was pain free for 10 days.  Then Chest pain landed me in hospital with pericardial effusion with additional  bilateral plueral effusion.  All blood work negative for autoimmune disease and cardio fluid resolved with antiinflamatory meds. Dr. refused to do another thoracentesis..said not enough fluid ..but I had pain again.  Finally I had a ct done ordered by pulmonologist at my request.  Results were devasting Plueral thickening with loculations due to chronic plueral effusions.  Meaning permanent damage, thorasic surgeon did shedule Vat surgery (2nd opinionby me), unfortunately damage and scar tissue to bad to even reach the lungs. Plueral scaring  turned out negative for cancer. No explanation of cause,it has almost been a year and I still have trouble with deep breaths.  Any advice.