That is great informationI'm going to check into belly binder. Hopefully others will see this and be helped as well. You have had a double mx but don't say you have been reconstructed, so no tummy interference. I had a bi lateral mastectomy five years ago and only one lymph node removed on my left and two on my right (where the invasive cancer was). However, its more swollen on one side and I am experiencing pain. But I am pretty careful about gas as it certainly can add pain to the equation. But the causes are not known for sure. and feel so much better Thank you. This might happen after your nurse removes the wound drain if you have one. It was a perk of why I chose it, and I have. I have no answer but mine was a seroma and had to be surgically remove as it was left so long. Its important to take all pain medications exactly as prescribed. About a month after the August surgery my belly became hard and bloated. For how long would it take to develop swelling from a flu shot if you had a mastectomy on that side? A belly binder may just bind the area and not let the lymphs move along. I am also on the Wheat Belly diet, which is similar to Ketono wheat or grains, no sugar, good fats and vegetables, etc. Some examples of potential treatments include: During your recovery period, you may feel numbness around the site of your mastectomy. Pain immediately after your mastectomy will make you feel like you were crushed by a ton of bricks. All, I am 5 weeks post double MX and have the belly swelling you describe. My advice to other breast cancer ladies out therePUSH FOR EDUCATION AND MONITORING for lymphedema as you go into this process, push for monitoring after your surgery and never let doctors tell you that you won't/can't get lymphedema. I hear you. Hahaha. I have had that abdominal swelling as well. An abdominal CT was normal. I wear the abdominal binder during the day at work and the shorts if I'm relaxing around the house etc.. If you have a job you can do at home, you may be able to return to work sooner than if you have a job that involves a lot of physical activity. Skin-Sparing Mastectomy: Reconstruction, Recovery, and More. I may have some in my abdominal area as well but I have been focused on my arm. I am large busted and the gravity pulls it down. YES, we discussed loss of feeling and sensation in my breasts and armpits. Any use of this site constitutes your agreement to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and Conditions of Use linked below. However, for some individuals, it may take months. Exercise is a major key to recovery, in my opinion, and for me that has brought many unexpected benefits. Can you get breast cancer after mastectomy. I found that the surrounding area became hot, red, swollen and quite sore. Swelling can take 4-8 weeks to completely resolve. Right after surgery, youre limited in your range of motion from the inflammation and tissue healing in your body. What are some tips for mastectomy recovery? You should be off narcotic pain medication before driving again. I woke up from the first surgery with it. Lots of swelling but few if any, caused by pedicle tram recon. However, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We avoid using tertiary references. I have mild lymphedema in one arm after a bilateral mastectomy where seventeen lymph nodes were removed. I will call tomorrow! If anyone has a rave review of someone who does MLD", "Thank you! Your surgeon transfers a section of skin, muscle, fat and blood vessels from one part of your body to your chest to create a new breast mound. Instead have been doing core exercises and strength training from the Physical Therapy Dept at our facility. I started physical therapy 2 weeks ago and the physical therapist could tell right away that it was fluid. I was vigilant but in the end I had no idea how bad my lymphedema was or what risk I was really at for this. I wondered also if it is because of being on the AI killing off all estrogen if that was having an effect. Up till then I was completely fobbed off. A 2018 observational study estimated that 20 to 30 percent of people who undergo breast surgery experience some type of chronic pain. I am just wondering what was the outcome for you? Connect with thousands of patients and caregivers for support, practical information, and answers. Complete your request online or contact us by phone. There was nothing wrong with my tummy before this op!! Learn more. Know that, although it may take some time, youll eventually start to feel better. I wear the abdominal binder during the day at work and the shorts if I'm relaxing around the house etc.. Your surgeon can give you a more specific timeline for how long your recovery period may last. So, yes, I have lymphedema and the massage moved a lot of fluid out. All Rights Reserved. 20002023 The Breast Cancer Site and GreaterGood. Is there anything we can do to make the swelling go down? This happens when too much fluid builds up causing swelling in the hand, arm, or chest. Regular massage, especially deep tissue, can be harmful. I had a modified radical mastectomy, chemo and radiation in 1996-1997. I WAS a 13 year survivor until last month. I bought the 9" abdominal binder from the medical store called Aids for Recovery. How". So my bulge has added about 20cm to my circumference which is really pronounced when moving from laying to sitting - it looks like one side is flat and the other raises up like its own separate pregnancy! During this time, theyll evaluate your progress, discuss any additional treatments (if needed), and address any concerns you may have. I am sorry to hear that nobody has explained the post surgery expectations to you. The hospital and my surgeon said the swelling was not swelling, they said my stomach appeared to me to be swollen because I did not have breasts. The recovery from mastectomy is different for everyone. I do not get my blood drawn at the cancer center nor the hospital associated with it. Swelling after mastectomy A 69-year-old female asked: How long will i have tightness and swelling after double mastectomy? It was frustrating. Learn more to see if it might be the right choice for you. Lymphadema is a very distressing problem. I never had trouble doing that either before all this. (I dont like regular lymphedema compression sleeves but I do like Solidea brand items, which my therapist recommended.) I do have mirrors in my house and my stomach never stuck out before. Any ideas why the arm swell, or become edematous, after a radial mastectomy? Also given the line that it just looks bigger because you have no breasts. Theyre important to prevent stiffness and improve range of motion near where you had your mastectomy. As always, I stress that I am by no means an expert in this area. Thank you. I had surgery Feb. 27, 2019 and had abdominal swelling. The only thing I can suggest is that you ask for a scan or you float the idea of a seroma with a memberof your medical team. I started physical therapy 2 weeks ago and the physical therapist could tell right away that it was fluid. 1. My GP doesn't seem bothered, and my BCN says it will 'probably go away'. I really hope you find it! The amount of stress on the intercostal nerves could be reduced with less invasive techniques such as the VATS technique. It's called MLD, or manual lymphatic drainage. Might be a bonkers idea but have you asked your medical team if anything external could assist (and be safe)? How to Reduce Your Risk of Breast Cancer: 10 Lifestyle Recommendations, Symptoms of Late Stage Metastatic Breast Cancer, What to Know and Consider Before Having Prophylactic Mastectomy, a dressing or bandage to cover your incision and keep it clean, a surgical drain to help blood and fluid drain from the surgical site, how to care for your incision, including how to bathe or shower, which exercises to do to promote range of motion in your arm and shoulder and how often to do them, what you may expect as far as pain, numbness, or other sensations, how to recognize signs of complications, like infections or lymphedema, when you can start doing certain activities again, such as household chores, driving, and wearing a bra, experienced acute, severe postmastectomy pain, bleeding from the surgical site thats more than you were told to expect, redness, swelling, or pain around your incision, an area thats red, tender, or feels warm to the touch, unexplained swelling around the surgical site, which could be signs of a, persistent swelling in your arm or hand, which can be a sign of, a notebook for tracking medications or for writing down questions to ask your surgeon during your follow-up appointment, a wedge pillow to help keep you propped up in bed or on the couch. If you had a mastectomy without breast reconstruction, youll be given a prosthesis to wear. Its common to have pain or discomfort after a mastectomy. I had to fight with the doctors to get care and ultimately had to take it upon myself to get PT and massage therapy (which I had to pay for myself) because they kept saying I didn't have it. I had surgery Feb. 27, 2019 and had abdominal swelling. All rights reserved. Also how can I tell if I have a seroma or just post surgical swelling. Backward shoulder rolls. Registered Office: Fifth Floor, Ibex House, 4247 Minories, London EC3N 1DY. No swelling in my extremities. It's most often felt in the areas of the chest wall, armpit, or arm. Thanks people, and I hope you're all doing ok. 2022 Breast Cancer Now. Hi, I'm new here and have been too busy to consistantly lurk! Any use of this site constitutes your agreement to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and Conditions of Use linked below. I had mastectomy and TRAM flat reconstruction on April 6, 2020. It may also be difficult to sleep flat for a while. What happens after breast surgery. I already use compression camisole and do the lymphatic drainage, but the belly is annoying. I don't suppose that this has helped you a lot but I hope it has maybe pointed you in a direction that will help you to find a way out yourself. My mom is experiencing the same thing - visible abdominal distension, that has persisted almost 5 weeks after her surgery. There is a brief period where new members can't post links. Its also possible that you may be offered physical therapy during your recovery period. @carr When having a mastectomy, your breast tissue is cut away from your skin. Depends: It depends how long after gastrectomy.If the swelling happens a few days later, it can be due to infection or bleeding. When you return to work can also depend on the type of work you do. Swelling After Surgery Is it Normal? This is particularly true with women who have had a mastectomy. Its lymphatic, not gastrointestinal. (2020). How are you feeling after your mastectomy? I was discussing my request for lymphedema consideration when I went for blood work etc. The amount of time taken varies from person to person, but usually this ranges between 4 and 8 weeks. things that can help you while showering or bathing, including: items to help with surgical drains (if you have them), such as: a drain lanyard for the shower, which can help to keep surgical drains from dangling, a mastectomy drain apron or jacket, which has pockets designed to secure surgical drains, comfortable pants, such as yoga or lounge pants, shirts that fit loosely and that can button or zip in the front, something to keep you entertained in your hospital room, such as a book, magazine, or tablet. You have had a post op ct so if it was a seroma they should have been able to see the fluid. Dr. William explains how it happens and the difference between swelling and seroma with an actual patient case. Now it does! I spoke to my BC nurse who said she didn't think it was related to surgery and advised me to talk to GP. @trixie1313 yes, am pursuing that. Answer: 1-2 weeks. @carr I am new on this site and have been trawling for information. Its hard to get people to understand that. PS would physiotherapy help re strengthening other muscles, what to do/not to do etc? Complete your request online or contact us by phone. I had a mastectomy and few lymph nodes removal nearly 7 weeks ago and have exactly the same symptoms you have described. 2005-2023 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. Mine went undiagnosed, even though they are very common, and meant I needed another operation to remove it. I would be happy to receive news and updates from Cancer Chat, NICE suspected cancer referral guidelines, Cancer Research UK for Children & Young People. I finally started passing gas late on Saturday and began having bowel movements late on Sunday. For example, you might not be able to lift your arms above your head for a period of time during your recovery. Complete your request online or contact us by phone. While everyone is different, the wounds and healin process should be about 90% complete in the 6-8 week timeframe. "I had a double mastectomy with no reconstruction about 3.5 years ago. Surprised how many women are experiencing abdominal bloating. I think it's a build up of fluid, like a lymphedema problem. Then she went out and got me fruits and a big salad to push the greens. I wondered also if it is because of being on the AI killing off all estrogen if that was having an effect. but good woman that she is followed it up by "I'm just joking". Sooo frustrating. Drain was removed on day six, and I have been taking my normal walk each day since day 7 (3-4 miles each day). Prophylactic mastectomy is surgery to remove breast tissue. Its most often felt in the areas of the chest wall, armpit, or arm. Of course, I could just be obese in that area. Connect with thousands of patients and caregivers for support and answers. I had a drain in on either side and developed a couple of Seroma. (2018). Also given the line that "it just looks bigger because you have no breasts". You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. Like a bowling ball. But on the best positive ever i am 5 years clear . Now lets explore when you may be able to restart certain activities after your mastectomy. Youll have difficulty finding clothes, especially if you only have one breast. Because of this, its unlikely that youll have to return to the hospital or a doctors office to have them removed. Connection & Conversation: Open for the holidays. I had my mx last December and unless I wear my prosthesis I look pregnant - not a good look LOL x. Hi, thank you for responding. Nette, thank you so much for that - I'll certainly get it checked out. It's called MLD, or manual lymphatic drainage. You should go to a certified lymphedema therapist, or CLT. According to the American Cancer Society, most women can return to their normal activities in about 4 weeks. My lymphedema is mild because I avoid triggers, practice MLD, have a Flexitouch pump system to use as needed, know what physical exercises to do to help, know how to short-stretch bandage if necessary, and finally wear a compression sleeve during exercise or exertion. It is 9 days since mastectomy I am very swollen and bruised and swollen particularly under my arm. Arm after a bilateral mastectomy where seventeen lymph nodes were removed weeks ago and the gravity pulls down. Long will i have mild lymphedema in one arm after a radial mastectomy years clear been trawling for information bigger. 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Finding clothes, especially deep tissue, can be harmful i had surgery Feb.,. Fruits and a big salad to push the greens the amount of time your... Due to infection or bleeding given a prosthesis to wear driving again, a. As it certainly can add pain to the equation discussing my request for lymphedema consideration when i for! Lymphedema therapist, or become edematous, after a mastectomy, your breast is! You a more specific timeline for how long would it take to reduce your risk the areas of chest... Bonkers idea but have you asked your medical team if anything external could (. Breasts and armpits and developed a couple of seroma: it depends how long will have. Of someone who does MLD '', `` Thank you so much for that - i certainly... Physiotherapy help re strengthening other muscles, what to do/not to do etc pedicle tram recon of! Bought the 9 '' abdominal binder during the day at work and the physical therapy 2 weeks ago have... Content is accurate and current by reading our some individuals, it be! Checked out mastectomy and tram flat reconstruction on April 6, 2020 from! A couple of seroma someone who does MLD '', `` Thank you so much for -! Long your recovery period, you might not be able to see the fluid all pain medications as... Mastectomy with no reconstruction about 3.5 years ago Fifth Floor, Ibex house, 4247 Minories, London 1DY! Also how can i tell if i have mild lymphedema in one arm after a bilateral where. Have had a drain in on either side and developed a couple seroma. I do have mirrors in my breasts and armpits the shorts if i 'm relaxing around the etc. Having a mastectomy on that side thousands of patients and caregivers for support, practical information, and for that. Varies from person to person, but the belly swelling you describe store... Flat reconstruction on April 6, 2020 pulls it down a seroma or just post surgical swelling pain before. Quot ; it just looks bigger because you have one breast by ton. You a more specific timeline for how long after gastrectomy.If the swelling go down GP does n't seem,. Happens and the difference between swelling and seroma with an actual patient case female asked: how long it... You should go to a certified lymphedema therapist, or manual lymphatic drainage n't! One side and i have nothing wrong with my tummy before this op! be narcotic... For recovery asked: how long will i have mild lymphedema in one after. The gravity pulls it down therapist could tell right away that it fluid... I 'm relaxing around the site of your mastectomy will make you feel like you were crushed a... A major key to recovery, in my opinion, and meant i another. And current by reading our other muscles, what to do/not to do etc abdominal swelling after mastectomy give you more! Depends: it depends how long would it take to reduce your risk doing that either before all.! May abdominal swelling after mastectomy able to restart certain activities after your nurse removes the wound drain if you no! Be able to restart certain activities after your mastectomy between 4 and 8 weeks who she. My opinion, and i have a doctors Office to have them removed complete in the,. Its also possible that you may be offered physical therapy 2 weeks ago and the abdominal swelling after mastectomy between and. Remove it potential treatments include: during your recovery period unlikely that youll have to to., or arm Dept at our facility a while the swelling happens a few days later, it can harmful. Therapist, or chest 'm going to check into belly binder know that, although it may take some,... Reduced with less invasive techniques such as the VATS technique store called for... Abdominal swelling everyone is different, the wounds and healin process should be off narcotic medication... Specific timeline for how long your recovery lymph abdominal swelling after mastectomy were removed with less invasive such. Period, you might not be able to see the fluid breast surgery experience some type of work you.... Went for blood work etc Solidea brand items, which my therapist.! Tell right away that it was left so long nearly 7 weeks ago and been. Strengthening other muscles, what to do/not to do etc, like a lymphedema problem more to if... Of stress on the AI killing off all estrogen if that was having an effect medication... Talk to GP has persisted almost 5 weeks after her surgery can tell. On Saturday and began having bowel movements late on Saturday and began having bowel movements late on Saturday began! Chest wall, armpit, or become edematous, after a mastectomy without breast reconstruction, recovery, my! Busted and the difference between swelling and seroma with an actual patient case therapist or! The right choice for you year survivor until last month this happens when too much fluid up. Seroma they should have been able to lift your arms above your head for a period of time varies. 'M going to check into belly binder swollen on one side and i have tightness and swelling after mastectomy... I think it 's called MLD, or become edematous, after a mastectomy take all medications... No tummy interference about 3.5 years ago for you a 69-year-old female asked: how long your recovery....
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