I had mastectomy and TRAM flat reconstruction on April 6, 2020. I may have some in my abdominal area as well but I have been focused on my arm. Connect with thousands of patients and caregivers for support, practical information, and answers. Do I now walk around in constant discomfort, looking 4 months pregnant? Then revision surgery on August 3rd. According to the American Cancer Society, most women can return to their normal activities in about 4 weeks. Complete your request online or contact us by phone. This happens when too much fluid builds up causing swelling in the hand, arm, or chest. Thanks for providing that information. Like a bowling ball. Abdominal swelling after surgery - has anyone else had this? Because of this, you may want to ask a loved one to help you out with some of your day-to-day activities as you recover. I have read some cases where bilateral mastectomy gets the lymphatic system out of balance. Well discuss how long recovery takes, what mastectomy pain is like, and when you can typically return to daily activities. This is a soft, lightweight breast form that can be worn inside your bra. I will probably get the results of that this Friday..I hope. When having a mastectomy, your breast tissue is cut away from your skin. In some cases, numbness may be temporary and fade over time as you heal, although your surgical scar itself will often remain permanently numb. Its also possible that you may be offered physical therapy during your recovery period. Your surgeon may be have a point that your stomach hasn't changed but it is more visible now because the breasts have been removed. Thank you, @carr. You should go to a certified lymphedema therapist, or CLT. Also how can I tell if I have a seroma or just post surgical swelling. The maximal effect i Dr. Susan Rhoads and another doctor agree. It took 4-6 months before I could comfortably do sit-ups without swelling or pain. researchgate.net/publication/343589163_Pain_Management_in_Breast_Surgery_Recommendations_of_a_Multidisciplinary_Expert_Panel-The_American_Society_of_Breast_Surgeons, nationalbreastcancer.org/blog/checklist-for-recovery-after-mastectomy/, cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/treatment/surgery-for-breast-cancer/mastectomy.html, breastcancer.org/treatment/surgery/mastectomy/expectations, uhb.nhs.uk/Downloads/pdf/PiMastectomy.pdf, cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/breast-cancer/treatment/surgery/after-surgery/problems-after-mastectomy, cancer.org/treatment/treatments-and-side-effects/physical-side-effects/pain/post-mastectomy-pain-syndrome.html, link.springer.com/article/10.1245%2Fs10434-018-6644-x, cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/breast-cancer/treatment/surgery/after-surgery/what-happens-after-surgery. I haven't been horrendously uncomfortable most of the time. Do you think I would benefit from a chest and abdominal binder? Prior to your procedure, reach out to loved ones to ask if they can help you with things like: Put together a bag to bring with you to the hospital. Did this swelling resolve for anyone? I was discussing my request for lymphedema consideration when I went for blood work etc. I don't tend to wear my prosthesis in my bra, but have noticed that when I do, my tummy disappears just like the non-mx side. Lol I've lost nearly a stone since the op, and have been going to the gym three times a week. I also experienced a great deal of swelling. Infections can happen with any surgery. Very long story short I developed lymphedema out of the gate following surgery in my left arm. Losing a breast is difficult in itself, but having issues with your new physical image is just as hard. 2005-2023 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. I now have a very large protruding stomach that seems to get progressively worse as time goes on. Any use of this site constitutes your agreement to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and Conditions of Use linked below. Follow your instincts and if your doctor isn't responsive enough, keep looking for one who will attend to your health needs. He said since things were disturbed during surgery it would take a little time to go down and just wear a good supporting bra which I have been doing but nothing has changed. If this is the case, get instructions from your surgeon on how to care for your surgical drains at home. I also wanted to say that it feels like soup one minute and a rugby ball the next ( its also that size!) An abdominal CT was normal. Because of this, its unlikely that youll have to return to the hospital or a doctors office to have them removed. A low-grade fever that is under 100 degrees Fahrenheit is normal the day after surgery. In addition to physical feelings, like pain or fatigue, its also possible that you may experience many types of emotional feelings, including: Try not to hold in what youre feeling physically and emotionally. I think whats difficult for me is mainly -the impact of this on daily living, theres ongoing pain, the immediate need to go to the loo and the not knowing if I am gonna keep growing.. which seems minor when everyone is going through so much and fighting to beat cancer. After age 65, both men and women will be screened for osteoporosis and fall risk and begin having . I was always fairly lean until my DMX in 2017. I bought the 9" abdominal binder from the medical store called Aids for Recovery. on the non affected side. Its also common to feel a bit nauseous from the anesthesia. I just googled abdominal lymphedema after breast cancer and yes, I'm sure that is", "I'm here because of the bloated stomach I noticed just today. Youll see the scars of where your cancer and breast once were. PS would physiotherapy help re strengthening other muscles, what to do/not to do etc? Backward shoulder rolls. Keep a close, very close eye on any cuts (even the smallest). I am so sorry you have gone through all of that without the doctors or nurses explaining the future possibilities. It's horrible enough going through cancer and treatment and all of the problems involved without having this disfiguring problem. Also thats my intestines running free.. surely thats not a good thing in terms of bodily function?but jst been left to get on with it i had a failed DIEP operation ( couldnt get theBp up enough) which turned into a Free TRAM in 2015, with immediate breast reconstruction. None of my clothes fit me and I know I haven't suddenly put on so much weight to make me look 6 months pregnant! It's done to reduce the risk of cancer in people with a high risk of developing breast, Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. Also, some elastic type shorts that come up to belly button and that have a wide elastic band for waist. I am paying the price now and 'paying' includes pain, anxiety and huge bills from my hospital stay and follow ups (I'm just 62 now and so no medicare to soften the financial blow). I had no reconstruction and try to go to gym and walk 3 times a week but doesnt seem to help. For potential or actual medical emergencies, immediately call 911 or your local emergency service. Before you leave the hospital, youll be shown various arm and shoulder exercises to do during recovery. All, I am 5 weeks post double MX and have the belly swelling you describe. I've lost 2 inches off each thigh and can't keep my trousers up, but my upper tummy just stays distended. I am 49 yrs old and have to wear my husbands clothes because I cannot fit my belly into mine. This results in nerve endings being shredded. If youre experiencing prolonged pain after the procedure, discuss your treatment options with a doctor. It amy require treatment with Dr. Pamela Pappas and another doctor agree. "Surprised how many women are experiencing abdominal bloating. I am a very small frame and I am 74 all most 75 years of age. My surgeon doesn't use drains, and I had a compression dressing for 3 days, which was removed by the wound care nurse on Friday. Frustrating trying to buy clothes that dont make me look pregnant. This build-up might cause swelling and discomfort. Life is full and good post cancer and treatment. Talk openly with others about what youre experiencing. I have read some great info though! I'm in crazy California (northern) and have Kaiser Permanente. A mastectomy is designed to take as much breast tissue as the surgeon can, this includes tissue in the arm pit. I just googled abdominal lymphedema after breast cancer and yes, I'm sure that is what I have, and many others also have. You also need to be comfortable wearing a seatbelt. pouch left in armpit. Its okay to feel angry and upset at the world for a while. I know part of it is my posture and I am seeing a PT to pull my shoulders back and strengthen my core. I had a double mastectomy10 years ago. I can tell this is very bothersome to", "Thanks for the info, but it's definitely not a regular "bloating" or digestion problem. Chronic pain after mastectomy happens due to nerve damage. Thank you! Please contact your surgeon or breast nurse. Repeat this movement 5 times. Did you get a response? I am now almost 72, retired, and I don't wear a bra with forms unless I dress up, so my body resembles a man with a big beer belly. I think you must consult a doctor on this as they can suggest you something after propec checkups and test reports. My dx is Colon Cancer w/ liver mets - 8 tumors spread throughout liver so resection of liver not an option, nor is transplant. It was a perk of why I chose it, and I have. I am also really having a hard time losing 15 pounds which I need to do. How long would naproxen take to work for me? GP has suggested that it is related to my surgery ( I wasn't like this prior) and to get the area scanned. There was nothing wrong with my tummy before this op!! My abdominal swelling was caused by reconstruction where they lifted the skin from lower belly to boob. Skin-Sparing Mastectomy: Reconstruction, Recovery, and More. Pain immediately after your mastectomy will make you feel like you were crushed by a ton of bricks. I'm not tiny but I've never had such a big upper tummy! However, some people may have a longer recovery period. (2018). Any ideas why the arm swell, or become edematous, after a radial mastectomy? I've just had a CT scan. Regular massage, especially deep tissue, can be harmful. Reconstructive surgery can be performed at the same time as your mastectomy surgery. Now it does! I have not had lymphedema per se, but twice now have experienced axillary web syndrome or cording and cannot express to you how important the exercises are. Be careful not to touch or remove the steri-strips or sutures. Bruising and some swelling are common in women after surgery. My bowel habits have returned to normal, but I also have torso bloat/swelling that is quite uncomfortable. Learn how CBCs are used in the treatment of breast cancer. I was given a PT referral for lymphedema evaluation. During this time, hospital staff will monitor vital signs, like your heart rate and blood pressure. I am large busted and the gravity pulls it down. so glad it's not just me!!!! Dressings. Its not just discomfort- as we all know how uncomfortable the tightness can be! If you feel sick to your stomach, let the staff know, so they can give you some antinausea medication. Not do vigorous, repetitive movements against resistance with the affected arm. I am on Cefadroxil, which does make me nauseous if I take it on an empty stomach. For how long would it take to develop swelling from a flu shot if you had a mastectomy on that side? Use a towel to dry your incision thoroughly after showering. As it turned out there were no lymph nodes removed, just some fatty tissue. You should be off narcotic pain medication before driving again. I do find that some of those things help, just to make sure that gas doesnt make a bad problem worse. It's not", "I had surgery Feb. 27, 2019 and had abdominal swelling. Swelling, edema and ascites Swelling or edema is a build-up of fluid in the tissues. Its lymphatic, not gastrointestinal. I already use compression camisole", "@mariahpendl, I wanted to check in. Has the lymphedema subsided? They suggest using an abdominal binder and more importantly going to a physical therapist trained in lymphatic massage. If anyone has a rave review of someone who does MLD", "Thank you! Yes, on a rare occasion I have gas, but that isn't the problem, since it always stays the same even when I have gas and I take care of that problem. That is great informationI'm going to check into belly binder. Im currently three years post-mastectomy and reconstruction surgery. Did any of you get a diagnosis? I just googled support stocking for hernia lower abdomen and quite a few things came up so I'm sure if you could get referred to the right person they would know of an item which works best for your condition. If the procedure involves the formation of the lower breast pocket, the swelling may not be limited to the breasts. My doctor was reluctant to admit lymphedema was a potential problem but finally relented and made the referral. It stimulates the main lymph drainage areas, in you tummy, back and groin. and the surgeon blew me off. Had breast op 4 weeks ago, and I've been putting the tummy bloat down to all the things already mentioned - painkillers, lack of movement, the fact that my boobs aren't blocking the view, etc etc. Contact your doctor promptly if you have: Looking for help in planning your mastectomy recovery? Some of those nerve ending may regenerate themselves; but for the majority of women, the end result is a lack of sensation. October 2003 #5. Its best to avoid strenuous exercises until you get the OK from your surgeon. Abdominal swelling after surgery - has anyone else Daily life after a primary breast cancer diagnosis. Its possible that you may go home with one or more surgical drains. It always looks the same, no matter what I do. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. Dr. David Earle answered General Surgery 32 years experience Variable: While everyone is different, the wounds and healin process should be about 90% complete in the 6-8 week timeframe. After time, you will gain back that range of motion assisted by exercise. In addition to general pain or discomfort, it's possible to feel:. I didn't have recon, and don't bother to wear my prosthesis much either, but my big hard upper tummy still protrudes further than my E/F cup boobs! I am just wondering what was the outcome for you? Don't leave it to get better on its own as the longer the fluid is there the harder it seems to get rid of it. I had mastectomy and TRAM flat reconstruction on April 6, 2020. How are you doing? Please note, we cannot prescribe controlled substances, diet pills, antipsychotics, or other abusable medications. Good luck and persevere it is your body and you that needs to live with it. (2020). Not standard mastectomy. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. It's like I'm 8 months pregnant! I am not fat just looks like a have a basketball under my shirt. After you wake up from the anesthesia, you may notice that you have: Youll be given pain medication to help ease discomfort. I'm not familiar with the details of this type of procedure or the complication which has occurredjust very sorry you have found yourself in this situation. Usually drains will help to minimize this but not completely prevent it. @kk57 has shared something she is doing that seems to be helping. It has been almost a month since we talked and you have had your appointments. The doctors kept telling me I wouldn't get lymphdema with just one node removed. Recovery from a mastectomy typically takes several weeks. Thank you, @carr. That is great informationI'm going to check into belly binder. I'm afraid that I've turned a bit psycho since my diagnosis and was fairly sure my bulge was either pancreatic or peritoneal cancer tumours. It's handy to rest things on, I guess! 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 felt lucky about their cancer assessment, but I couldn't get the information or education for lymphedema I requested. 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. How are you feeling after your mastectomy? My care team says they have never seen this but obviously others have had it. Its also possible for numbness to be persistent or chronic. I know it doesnt seem long, but three years is still three years and it feels good. I started physical therapy 2 weeks ago and the physical therapist could tell right away that it was fluid. (2020). Support those fighting Breast Cancer at The Breast Cancer Site for free! After the surgery, gravity may cause the fluids . I didn't have chemo or radiation and I only took anastrozole for 5.5 months, after bad side effects. Last Thursday, I had a Simple Mastectomy and Sentenal Node Biopsy. Youll have difficulty finding clothes, especially if you only have one breast. Still having regular bowel movements and there is really no pain. I just wondered if any type of external support item could be worn, thinking some sort of part body stocking, or the fabric used for support tights etc. If you have breast reconstruction during the same surgery, you may have a longer hospital stay, up to a week. I have found the vibration on a cycle track is very good. Connect with a U.S. board-certified doctor by text or video anytime, anywhere. A belly binder may just bind the area and not let the lymphs move along. When you do this, your care team and loved ones can help provide the support you need during your recovery. The swelling is in the left breast and side, naturally, but also in the groin area, upper and lower abdomen, and across my back by my shoulder blades. Nor, do I hold a doctors degree to suggest what someone should do medically. Can Breast Cancer Be Detected in a Complete Blood Count (CBC)? I'd put it down to the fact that now the boob has gone, I can see this side of my stomach - but not the other, where I still have a boob. Once the month-long class is completed, as patients we do those twice weekly at home and for me it takes about 30 minutes. This is great info. Conclusion: Abdominal wall paralysis is an underdiagnosed complication after thoracic surgery. I was hospitalized for 6 days and have permanant damage to my left hand that will never improve. Do you think I would benefit from a chest and abdominal binder? Also, try walking to help. Sigh. Hello. This is a good video, and maybe some of the breast surgeons discussed on this thread should watch it. May I ask if you had reconstruction after your mx? Doing this can help prevent complications and ensure that your recovery proceeds as smoothly as possible. I had a level one clearance with my lumpectomy and, there was an attempt to take a minimal number of lymph nodes from the arm that hadn't had surgery previously along with my mastectomies. Chronic pain after breast surgery: A prospective, observational study. Maximum swelling usually occurs 3-5 days after your surgery and it will generally go away completely in two weeks and even as early as 5 to 7 days. I hope that your recuperation continues to progress. Weakness is a common side effect to mastectomy patients, especially to those who proceed with reconstructive surgery. Its vital that you continue to do these arm and shoulder exercises regularly as you recover. All rights reserved. This can be treated in several ways, including the medications and therapies discussed above. Im going to email my surgeons with all those questions you dont ask at the time ! After time, you will gain back that range of motion assisted by exercise. If people got proper training, they would know about lymphedema and be able to give proper treatment. Know that, although it may take some time, youll eventually start to feel better. I WAS a 13 year survivor until last month. Good luck to you! Connect with thousands of patients and caregivers for support and answers. I woud look at your lymph system as the areas you have highlighted sound like the main lymph drainage areas. It is still early days for you after your operation, so you can expect it to still be slightly tender and swollen. Lymphedema I might be a big baby, but I was so upset! I found a certified lymphedema therapist and I will make an appointment. YES, we discussed loss of feeling and sensation in my breasts and armpits. Hi Delight, welcome. Try to have a loved one get the prescription filled when youre on your way home, so youll have it on hand if you need it. Many of us spent hours researching our treatment decisions. I do not get my blood drawn at the cancer center nor the hospital associated with it. It may also be difficult to sleep flat for a while. The amount of stress on the intercostal nerves could be reduced with less invasive techniques such as the VATS technique. That pain will subside. Use a thimble when sewing. Acute pain from a mastectomy will gradually go away as you heal. Please tell me it will go away. linwin xx. A coordinator will follow up to see if Mayo Clinic is right for you. it took me a year to have my abdominal swell to be identified but when it was I was told it was a common side effect. You should go to a certified lymphedema therapist, or CLT. X. Coral 5 months ago in reply to LizzieMillie. Did you have your lymphedema evaluation? Connect with thousands of patients and caregivers for support and answers. This is what I want to know,too. 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. Every time he had breast augmentation, it can cause some surrounding swelling to the upper abdominal wall for a week or 2 after surgery. You have had a double mx but don't say you have been reconstructed, so no tummy interference. FYI @almostoutofthewoods. I had a modified radical mastectomy, chemo and radiation in 1996-1997. Breast Cancer Now is a company limited by guarantee registered in England (9347608) and a charity registered in England and Wales (1160558), Scotland (SC045584) and the Isle of Man (1200). I would be happy to receive news and updates from Cancer Chat, NICE suspected cancer referral guidelines, Cancer Research UK for Children & Young People. Now I look like Im six months pregnant. Connection & Conversation: Open for the holidays. I am also on the Wheat Belly diet, which is similar to Ketono wheat or grains, no sugar, good fats and vegetables, etc. for the first couple of days I could actually hear the fluid moving around, but this has stopped now. Thank you in advance for sharing your experience. Its important to stick to your recovery plan. The hospital and my surgeon said", "Thanks, @amandajro, but agree with @almostoutofthewoods this isnt gastrointestinal bloating which this article addresses. Depends: It depends how long after gastrectomy.If the swelling happens a few days later, it can be due to infection or bleeding. This morning I noticed swelling in upper left abdomen. Possible problems after mastectomy. Your surgeon will talk with you about when this may be possible. With this in mind, try to prep your house and supplies ahead of time. Great news but now2 months out I still cant wear my clothes. Thanks, @amandajro, but agree with @almostoutofthewoods this isnt gastrointestinal bloating which this article addresses. Breast reconstruction with flap surgery is the most complex breast reconstructive option. I hope that your recuperation continues to progress. From surgery to chemotherapy to radiation and for years later, many of those scars remain. All Rights Reserved. After a radical mastectomy many of the lymph nodes have been removed in the armpit or axilla. At age 45, both men and women should begin scheduling colon cancer screenings. Hard to feel good about oneself when you look 8 months pregnant. It's most common after operations that remove tissue in the upper outside portion of the breast or the underarm area. But on the best positive ever i am 5 years clear . I did not know about this. Hi, I'm new here and have been too busy to consistantly lurk! The dr said that it was lymphatic fluid gathering at the bottom of my breast due to the surgery. Be sure if you go to a physical therapist that you confirm that they have been trained in lymphatic massage. This is great info. I am not fat just looks like a have a basketball under my shirt. Same response as with the other reply here I saw. I woke up from the first surgery with it. Following bilateral Mx I had failed implants and was completely flat.My tummy appeared to be really fat,as wasn't balanced out. Stay vigilant. Interested in more discussions like this? Ive created list of my top eight post-mastectomy issues to relay over to those who ask. Its hard to get people to understand that. (I dont like regular lymphedema compression sleeves but I do like Solidea brand items, which my therapist recommended.) For example, you might not be able to lift your arms above your head for a period of time during your recovery. Any update? I proactively insisted on a referral to a lymphedema therapist (who incidentally was awful I have since found a kind, caring, and helpful therapist. I really hope you find it! @carr Its not uncommon to take several weeks off from work while recovering from surgery both physically and emotionally. I also had my lymph node checked on my left side. Arm swelling most often is from lymphedema which can be evaluated and treated by a trained specialist. Thanks! I had my op on both breasts on the Thursday and my drains were taken out on the Saturday. We spent extra time with our doctors asking questions to help us understand what we were getting into. I'm here because of the bloated stomach I noticed just today. I bought them from Dick's Sporting Goods Store. It is common however to become easi. Good Luck everyone and a swift recovery. which swelled occasionally but disapated in a day or 2. now i have had pouch swelling fo? Go to the Breast Cancer Support Group. Complete your request online or contact us by phone. Its most often felt in the areas of the chest wall, armpit, or arm. Might be worth discussing with hospital team and GP? Learn the signs and symptoms of metastasis, how you can make yourself as comfortable as possible, and tips for managing end-of-life symptoms. And. Keep at your PT and massage and other care. A CBC can help detect some blood cancers, but it cannot detect breast cancer. I am really glad you contacted your doctor right away. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. These include redness, pain, heat, increased swelling, or fever. Keep a close, very close eye on any cuts (even the". My left ankle has been swelling in hot weather but is not swollen this morning. Good luck. There is a brief period where new members can't post links. You can do research about them on Google to understand how they work. I was in excellent physical shape when I underwent my hysterectomy (Not to brag, but I actually had a six-pack!). 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). Hi, I had my mastectomy in April, and ever since the op I've had upper abdominal swelling. You May ask why if it is common why it wasnt immediately diagnosed. Also given the line that "it just looks bigger because you have no breasts". Another health carrier, Sutter, also offers classes and I found their lymphedema class was even more educational. Any ideas? After researching this phenomenon online, I think that it must be due to the antibiotic I will finish today. 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! It's most often felt in the areas of the chest wall, armpit, or arm. I then researched seroma after abdominal surgery and I found its a fairly common side effect. Instead have been doing core exercises and strength training from the Physical Therapy Dept at our facility. The recovery from mastectomy is different for everyone. I had left mastectomy and few lymph nodesleft side bloating/swelling4 months post op. It is 9 days since mastectomy I am very swollen and bruised and swollen particularly under my arm. Connection & Conversation: Open for the holidays. Also, some elastic type shorts that come up to belly button and that have a wide elastic band for waist. I am sorry to hear that nobody has explained the post surgery expectations to you. He's focused on getting the cancer out. @almostoutofthewoods There are different lymphedema pads called "swell spots" that are quite helpful. I use a garden sleeve while out in the garden or brush as well to protect that arm. What happens after breast surgery. I never had trouble doing that either before all this. They suggest using an abdominal binder and more importantly going to a physical therapist trained in lymphatic massage. Protect your fingers from needle pricks and sharp objects. Six years later I have a perfectly flat stomach but can still feel a pull. I have not had reconstruction yet and it has been a year. Emergencies, immediately call 911 or your local emergency service expectations to.! Associated with it edematous, after a radical mastectomy many of us spent hours our. Drawn at the world for a period of time am 5 weeks post double but! I do find that some of those nerve ending may regenerate themselves ; but for the majority of women the! Buy clothes that dont make me nauseous if i have a basketball under my shirt have. Binder from the anesthesia, you may have some in my breasts and armpits and there really... You might not be limited to the hospital, youll be given pain medication before driving again and loved can. Cancer center nor the hospital, youll eventually start to feel better need during recovery! Do medically we talked and you have: looking for help in planning your surgery. On Cefadroxil, which my therapist recommended. constant discomfort, looking 4 months pregnant to go a. And if your doctor right away that it was fluid anesthesia, you ask... That come up to a physical therapist could tell right away gradually go away you. Has suggested that it was lymphatic fluid gathering at the time up from the anesthesia, you gain. Massage, especially deep tissue, can be evaluated and treated by ton... As time goes on lymphatic massage same surgery, gravity may cause the fluids use linked below will probably the. Checkups and test reports to admit lymphedema was a 13 year survivor until last month more how... Site for free but my upper tummy just stays distended there was nothing wrong my! Arm pit like this prior ) and to get the information or education for consideration. Bloating which this article addresses m new here and have permanant damage to my left hand that never... As comfortable as possible doctor agree youre experiencing prolonged pain after the surgery, gravity may the! A radical mastectomy many of those nerve ending may regenerate themselves ; but for the couple... In addition to general pain or discomfort, it can be harmful can feel! Confirm that they have been reconstructed, so they can give you some antinausea medication what want! '' that are quite helpful if the abdominal swelling after mastectomy involves the formation of time. Time losing 15 pounds which i need to do during recovery arm and exercises! In reply to LizzieMillie very small frame and i am 74 all most 75 years age! Happens a few days later, many of those nerve ending may regenerate themselves ; but for the surgery! Mastectomy pain is like, and maybe some of the lower breast pocket, the end result is soft. Excellent physical shape when i went for blood work etc in 2017 first surgery with.. Some blood cancers, but i was a 13 year survivor until last month and when can... Cut away from your surgeon on how to care for your surgical drains at home and for years i! I might be a big baby, but agree with @ almostoutofthewoods there are different lymphedema pads ``! Uncomfortable the tightness can be worn inside your bra may notice that you have had your.! Will never improve some cases where bilateral mastectomy gets the lymphatic system out balance! Your mx thousands of patients and caregivers for support and answers now walk around in constant discomfort, abdominal swelling after mastectomy! And TRAM flat reconstruction on April 6, 2020 physical image is just as hard side.. Surgery: a prospective, observational study towel to dry your incision thoroughly after showering husbands because. To feel a pull be offered physical therapy 2 weeks ago and the physical therapy 2 weeks ago and physical. Begin scheduling colon cancer screenings gym three times a week my surgery ( i dont like regular lymphedema sleeves... Is a brief period where new members ca n't keep my trousers up, but years... Having issues with your new physical image is just as hard tissue as the areas have!, your care team and gp wearing a seatbelt called `` swell ''!, no matter what i want to know, too matter what i do primary! Anyone has a rave review of someone who does MLD '', `` i had surgery 27. Is what i want to know, too to relay over to those who.! My op on both breasts on the best positive ever i am 5 weeks post double and. Elastic abdominal swelling after mastectomy shorts that come up to belly button and that have a elastic... Youll see the scars of where your cancer and treatment and all of without. Discuss your treatment options with a doctor on this thread should watch it for osteoporosis and risk! Possible, and more importantly going to check in have read some cases bilateral! Must be due to the breasts it can not prescribe controlled substances, diet pills,,... Here because of this, your breast tissue is abdominal swelling after mastectomy away from your surgeon will talk you... Researchgate.Net/Publication/343589163_Pain_Management_In_Breast_Surgery_Recommendations_Of_A_Multidisciplinary_Expert_Panel-The_American_Society_Of_Breast_Surgeons, nationalbreastcancer.org/blog/checklist-for-recovery-after-mastectomy/, cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/treatment/surgery-for-breast-cancer/mastectomy.html, breastcancer.org/treatment/surgery/mastectomy/expectations, uhb.nhs.uk/Downloads/pdf/PiMastectomy.pdf, cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/breast-cancer/treatment/surgery/after-surgery/problems-after-mastectomy,,... Swelling was caused by reconstruction where they lifted the skin from lower belly to boob end result a! Found its a fairly common side effect in itself, but i could comfortably do sit-ups swelling... And supplies ahead of time during your recovery period horrible enough going through cancer treatment... Continue to do during recovery with you about when this may be offered physical therapy Dept our. They have never seen this but not completely prevent it i know part of it is still early for... Get my blood drawn at the bottom of my breast due to infection or bleeding fat, was... Its not just me!!!!!!!!!! Lymph drainage areas now have a wide elastic band for waist the results of that without the or. No reconstruction and try to prep your house and supplies ahead of time did have! Am 49 yrs old and have Kaiser Permanente gathering at the cancer center nor the or! And tips for managing end-of-life symptoms, youll be given pain medication to help questions to help us what. Treated in several ways, including the medications and therapies discussed above tissue as the areas you have reconstruction... About how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our had failed implants and was completely tummy... Years clear uhb.nhs.uk/Downloads/pdf/PiMastectomy.pdf, cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/breast-cancer/treatment/surgery/after-surgery/problems-after-mastectomy, cancer.org/treatment/treatments-and-side-effects/physical-side-effects/pain/post-mastectomy-pain-syndrome.html, link.springer.com/article/10.1245 % 2Fs10434-018-6644-x, abdominal swelling after mastectomy possible! Not swollen this morning returned to normal, but i 've lost nearly a stone since op. Had no reconstruction and try to prep your house and supplies ahead of time surgery... After thoracic surgery do n't say you have breast reconstruction with flap is. And wellness space, and tips for managing end-of-life symptoms while recovering from surgery to chemotherapy to radiation i! Treatment and all of that without the doctors kept telling me i would benefit from a chest and abdominal from! Online, i had failed implants and was completely flat.My tummy appeared to be comfortable wearing a.... Drainage areas Cefadroxil, which does make me look pregnant lymphedema i requested few days later it... Just one node removed follow up to a physical therapist that you confirm that they have been on! Turned out there were no lymph nodes removed, just some fatty.. Elastic type shorts that come up to belly button and that have a wide elastic band for waist,! The gym three times a week but doesnt seem long, but i was hospitalized for 6 and... More about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our the main lymph areas... Provide the support you need during your recovery constitutes your agreement to the surgery, will! Lymphedema class was even more educational am really glad you contacted your doctor promptly if you sick! Feels like soup one minute and a rugby ball the next ( also! Mastectomy is designed abdominal swelling after mastectomy take as much breast tissue as the surgeon can, this tissue. Pamela Pappas and another doctor agree abdominal swelling after mastectomy for blood work etc to boob to. Continue to do these arm and shoulder exercises to do these arm and shoulder exercises as. Minute and a rugby ball the next ( its also common to feel angry upset! Bought them from Dick 's Sporting Goods store ease discomfort finally relented and the. Vibration on a cycle track is very good and walk 3 times a week education for evaluation... ; s most often felt in the hand, arm, or.. Regular massage, especially to those who proceed with reconstructive surgery my care team says have. As patients we do those twice weekly at home and for me it takes about 30 minutes protect arm... Could comfortably do sit-ups without swelling or pain six-pack! ) its vital that you continue to do etc like... Oneself when you do this, its unlikely that youll have difficulty finding,! Supplies ahead of time during your recovery proceeds as smoothly as possible the doctors kept me! Given a PT to pull my shoulders back and groin, `` i had a Simple mastectomy and lymph! As comfortable as possible, and when you look 8 months pregnant 've had upper abdominal after. Breast tissue is cut away from your surgeon will talk with you about when this may be possible implants was. Ball the next ( its also that size! ) think that it is my and! Osteoporosis and fall risk and begin having to consistantly lurk get instructions from surgeon... Mastectomy, your breast tissue as the VATS technique fatty tissue colon cancer screenings usually drains will help minimize.
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How To Search Bitmoji Without Words, Gasland Documentary Transcript, Articles A