I am getting bilateral mastectomy/breast reconstruction (after finding out I have a genetic mutation) next month and am scared to death about my hospital experience. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. Still having regular bowel movements and there is really no pain. Be sure if you go to a physical therapist that you confirm that they have been trained in lymphatic massage. Did they do anything to reduce the seroma? 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. Go to the Breast Cancer Support Group. 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. I have not had reconstruction yet and it has been a year. Arm swelling most often is from lymphedema which can be evaluated and treated by a trained specialist. My abdominal swelling was caused by reconstruction where they lifted the skin from lower belly to boob. I do find that some of those things help, just to make sure that gas doesnt make a bad problem worse. Brenin DR, et al. Not standard mastectomy. My doctor says it is IBS but my only symptom is bloated belly. "I had a double mastectomy with no reconstruction about 3.5 years ago. I had a drain in on either side and developed a couple of Seroma. I am now on a very strict program of PT, massage, and bandaging to keep the lymphedema under control. I woke up from the first surgery with", "@carr That is great informationI'm going to check into belly binder. New research suggests that melatonin may help lower the risk of breast cancer, slow the growth of breast cancer, and help make breast cancer. I hope I have give you some ideas. Weakness is a common side effect to mastectomy patients, especially to those who proceed with reconstructive surgery. Connect with thousands of patients and caregivers for support, practical information, and answers. Please note, we cannot prescribe controlled substances, diet pills, antipsychotics, or other abusable medications. 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. This feels", "@kk57 See if you can get a referral to a physical therapist who addresses lymphatic massage.". The one constant in my treatment has been walking it is free and the very best exercise. @carr All Rights Reserved. It was frustrating. However, there are those times where I need to say, If it was me, I would do. Keep in mind that the exact timelines can vary based on the type of procedure you have, as well as your overall health. We mustnt just accept. 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. however,had a DIEP and ended up with seroma in the abdomen,which capsulated,and removed surgically.Consequently I ended up with scar tissue and a protruding tummy. Kaiser also offers their patients an "after breast surgery" training class by the physical therapy department whereupon one does a series of stretching, core, weight training (stretch bands and free weights), and then finishing with stretching exercises. Connection & Conversation: Open for the holidays. Acute pain from a mastectomy will gradually go away as you heal. Theyre important to prevent stiffness and improve range of motion near where you had your mastectomy. Its lymphatic, not gastrointestinal. I had my op on both breasts on the Thursday and my drains were taken out on the Saturday. Depends: It depends how long after gastrectomy.If the swelling happens a few days later, it can be due to infection or bleeding. Connect with thousands of patients and caregivers for support and answers. Ive created list of my top eight post-mastectomy issues to relay over to those who ask. Then revision surgery on August 3rd. Life is full and good post cancer and treatment. Thank you all so much. Are these options things you've already tried or are doing? A 2018 observational study estimated that 20 to 30 percent of people who undergo breast surgery experience some type of chronic pain. I started to post the video after reading your comment, impulsive? She did Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD). For some people, this may be about 10 days after surgery. Is there anyway to tell if this is a hematoma orsomething other than normal -without going back to the doctor? I do not get my blood drawn at the cancer center nor the hospital associated with it. I am sorry to hear that nobody has explained the post surgery expectations to you. My seroma was only found after I had a full body scan when a primary was found in my second breast. Before you leave the hospital, youll be shown various arm and shoulder exercises to do during recovery. A mastectomy is designed to take as much breast tissue as the surgeon can, this includes tissue in the arm pit. She did Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD). but good woman that she is followed it up by "I'm just joking". There's no way to completely predict or prevent breast cancer. I bought the 9" abdominal binder from the medical store called Aids for Recovery. I am on Cefadroxil, which does make me nauseous if I take it on an empty stomach. Thanks for listening. i have a huge swelling around my implant breast (mascetomy surgery) and i pulled myself at work. Also given the line that it just looks bigger because you have no breasts. Weve assembled some tips below to help you get started. I had my mastectomy last December - no recon - and since then, my stomach on mx side looks like I'm pregnant too. Your recovery time can depend on a variety of factors, like the type of mastectomy that you had and your overall health. This is great info. Talk openly with others about what youre experiencing. It's called MLD, or manual lymphatic drainage. Learn more to see if it might be the right choice for you. Now I look like Im six months pregnant. Youll likely need to wait 3 to 4 weeks before resuming other types of exercise. My seroma appeared within 6 weeks of the original operation. "I had surgery Feb. 27, 2019 and had abdominal swelling. When you open up your body, youre leaving yourself exposed. Follow your instincts and if your doctor isn't responsive enough, keep looking for one who will attend to your health needs. If you feel tightness across your incision or chest, start with smaller circles. @carr This may be 2 weeks or longer. I am glad you are paying attention to your body. Over those three years I have talked to numerous women who have sought out my knowledge in hopes that their questions could be answered, or that I might have added insight that their doctors failed to relay to them. dog_lover Member Posts: 8. Your surgeon will talk with you about when this may be possible. I WAS a 13 year survivor until last month. Its possible that you may go home with one or more surgical drains. Might be a bonkers idea but have you asked your medical team if anything external could assist (and be safe)? Your nurse or doctor can drain the fluid with a needle and syringe if the seroma is painful. I hope that your recuperation continues to progress. Did you get it sorted ? I was discussing my request for lymphedema consideration when I went for blood work etc. Any update? Then she went out and got me fruits and a big salad to push the greens. Connect with thousands of patients and caregivers for support and answers. Keep a close, very close eye on any cuts (even the". Some individuals may develop chronic pain following a mastectomy. Had part of colon removed in April & did radiospheres as well. 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. Compression garments such as a compression bra, shape wear or an abdominal binder can help reduce swelling. So grateful I found this group! What are the symptoms of complications after mastectomy? Youll see the scars of where your cancer and breast once were. 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. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322525. I understand they are focused on saving our lives but discounting our side effects is really disheartening. You have 3 options: Last Thursday, I had a Simple Mastectomy and Sentenal Node Biopsy. Frustrating trying to buy clothes that dont make me look pregnant. does it eventually go down? As it turned out there were no lymph nodes removed, just some fatty tissue. So, yes, I have lymphedema and the massage moved a lot of fluid out. I am not fat just looks like a have a basketball under my shirt. I'm not tiny but I've never had such a big upper tummy! Ugh. You also need to be comfortable wearing a seatbelt. Did you have your lymphedema evaluation? Losing a breast is difficult in itself, but having issues with your new physical image is just as hard. Any update? When you leave the hospital, youll receive information about your recovery at home. Its also common to feel a bit nauseous from the anesthesia. Youll generally need to avoid doing household chores and lifting heavy objects for a set period of time. She has a direct line to the surgeons and the whole BC team. You will be able to add URLs to your posts in a few days. The CT scan revealed nothing untoward, except that my abdominal wall is minus muscle that was used for boob reconstruction. When you can start driving again typically depends on how you feel during recovery. A coordinator will follow up to see if Mayo Clinic is right for you. Your surgeon can give you a more specific timeline for how long your recovery period may last. Backward shoulder rolls. Its like doctors sometimes you have to search for one who is a good fit for your personality) because I was going to be flying on a vacation and I knew sometimes flying can be a trigger. Thanks, @amandajro, but agree with @almostoutofthewoods this isnt gastrointestinal bloating which this article addresses. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. I already messaged my surgeon. I also wanted to say that it feels like soup one minute and a rugby ball the next ( its also that size!) Most have been trained on the job by a mentor some actually have had themselves a mastectomy or lumpectomy for even better first hand advise the m How long will i have tightness and swelling after double mastectomy? I think paranoid hyperchondriac is a pretty good label for me right now! Once the fluid was aspirated, it almost immediately felt a lot better. Sooo frustrating. 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. Also given the line that "it just looks bigger because you have no breasts". I take a stool softener because of the constipation that's a side-effect of the Detral LA I'm on. Its vital that you continue to do these arm and shoulder exercises regularly as you recover. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition. Interested in more discussions like this? They suggest using an abdominal binder and more importantly going to a physical therapist trained in lymphatic massage. 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. It was part of the reason I had an ER visit post op. For potential or actual medical emergencies, immediately call 911 or your local emergency service. Not only can this help you feel more confident, but this individual can also take over if you experience pain or discomfort while driving. I have recently found recorded medical lectures on You Tube that I have found helpful. Interested in more discussions like this? Its lymphatic, not gastrointestinal. My surgeon advised against more ops as he felt It could cause more probs down the line He also said we are just seeing the true complications of TRAM surgery. Watch out for a fever, swelling, redness, and added pain. Any use of this site constitutes your agreement to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and Conditions of Use linked below. I am not fat just looks like a have a basketball under my shirt. I'm 48 and apparently not peri-menopausal. It is 9 days since mastectomy I am very swollen and bruised and swollen particularly under my arm. Its lymphatic, not gastrointestinal. Be careful not to touch or remove the steri-strips or sutures. No chemo or radiation. Well discuss how long recovery takes, what mastectomy pain is like, and when you can typically return to daily activities. I was stage 1 in my left breast, but had the double as a preventative measure, since I never wanted to go through this again. @trixie1313 yes, am pursuing that. Chronic pain after mastectomy happens due to nerve damage. for the first couple of days I could actually hear the fluid moving around, but this has stopped now. Also wearing an abdominal binder is recommended. My doctor says it is IBS but my only symptom is bloated belly. Its hard to get people to understand that. Has anyone else had this? Side Effects (Stomach distended and hard and will Not go away): I just had a bilateral mastectomy on the 29th of April 2020 and my drain stayed in for about 4 weeks but after I was able to move around I noticed that my stomach was like really hard and round exceptionally round like a beer gut and I was thinking it was because I didn't have breast anymore but it's not that, it is still that way now and I supposedly been able to go back to work 6th June and it has not left and I have lost the weight not a lot but I have lost the weight but that stomach is still hard and still be big like I'm pregnant and it's very upsetting and I've asked about it at my doctor and nobody is able to tell me so I'm having a colonoscopy in a few weeks and I asked for an endoscopy to see if it's something in there if someone finds out any information please let me know cuz I will tell you the results of my endoscopy if they find anything I'm going to ask the gastroenterologist about it, good luck ladies is all I can say and I didn't have the reconstructive surgery because I had breast cancer before and I had radiation and they told me that on that particular side I was not going to be eligible for it because my skin would not stretch anymore, but if anybody knows anything please put it on here so I can read it thanks and I'm praying for us all to figure out how we can Live with this new shape of our body that I don't think you're not supposed to have, Thanks and you are absolutely right! How are you doing? I am not fat just looks like a have a basketball under my shirt. I've read that some antibiotics can kill the natural bacteria that the body needs to help process food as it passes through the system. I noticed that you wanted to add a URL to a video. Infections can happen with any surgery. During this time, theyll evaluate your progress, discuss any additional treatments (if needed), and address any concerns you may have. I am glad to hear about the MLD and will ask my oncologist to refer me. Dr. William explains how it happens and the difference between swelling and seroma with an actual patient case. They suggest using an abdominal binder and more importantly going to a physical therapist trained in lymphatic massage. I just googled abdominal lymphedema and yes, it is a thing, and yes, that is what I have and I'm sure many others with "Buddha belly" have. You will know if you develop a seroma. Hello. This morning I noticed swelling in upper left abdomen. Hi, I've just joined the site, and wondered if anyone can help. But if those emotions last longer than you would desire, seek some help from a professional. There must be something out there which acts as an appropriate support band. Funds are paid by Greater Good Charities to benefiting organizations as a grant. Although I have been told the common reply from my surgeon and family Dr. that I just didn't see it before because my breasts were there, that is total B.S. Some examples of things to pack are: Recovering from a mastectomy can be physically and emotionally challenging at times. Below, well outline what you can generally expect, both in the hospital and after you return home. If you have breast reconstruction during the same surgery, you may have a longer hospital stay, up to a week. 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. Youll have difficulty finding clothes, especially if you only have one breast. I am also on the Wheat Belly diet, which is similar to Ketono wheat or grains, no sugar, good fats and vegetables, etc. When can I resume my normal activities after a mastectomy? If you happened to start the reconstruction process with expanders, or even once you put implants in, infection can still happen. If youre scheduled for a lung cancer surgery, you may have a lot of questions about the procedure and the recovery process. I couldn't believe the bloat I had. Connect with thousands of patients and caregivers for support, practical information, and answers. Swelling Because of the overall healing response of multiple surgical sites, swelling is normal and expected of the breasts and the abdomen after surgery. 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. She had me purchase an abdominal binder which I wear only during the day. Hugs.. @charisa, cindylb so glad it's not just me!!!! Might be worth discussing with hospital team and GP? (regarding that, I wonder if guys had needles stuck in their privates if they would be a little more sensitive with their needles???) Melatonin and Breast Cancer: Is it Safe and Can it Help? Drain was removed on day six, and I have been taking my normal walk each day since day 7 (3-4 miles each day). This could be fluid and needs to be sorted. It takes several weeks to recover from a mastectomy. For me, the BC nightmare never ends. Good Luck everyone and a swift recovery. If people got proper training, they would know about lymphedema and be able to give proper treatment. I now have a very large protruding stomach that seems to get progressively worse as time goes on. Its not uncommon to take several weeks off from work while recovering from surgery both physically and emotionally. Abdominal swelling after surgery - has anyone else had this? We are always here for you. Still having regular bowel movements and there is really no pain. Most people who have a mastectomy only need a short hospital say. Right after surgery, youre limited in your range of motion from the inflammation and tissue healing in your body. Its not just discomfort- as we all know how uncomfortable the tightness can be! However, its important to be aware of the signs of a potential complication so that you can seek help. I am just wondering what was the outcome for you? I had a mastectomy and few lymph nodes removal nearly 7 weeks ago and have exactly the same symptoms you have described. I also had my lymph node checked on my left side. HealthTap uses cookies to enhance your site experience and for analytics and advertising purposes. 1998-2023 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Resreach. @sandyjr and others in this thread.. 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. As a matter of fact, I have found two phlebotomists that will honor this. Studies have shown that between 20% and 30% of women develop symptoms of PMPS after surgery. You can do research about them on Google to understand how they work. In addition to general pain or discomfort, it's possible to feel:. A belly binder may just bind the area and not let the lymphs move along. When you talk about massage is it literally gentle massage with your fingers. I started physical therapy 2 weeks ago and the physical therapist could tell right away that it was fluid. Thanks, I am going to email my consultants and see if they have recommendations for Physio- you are on it! Lots of swelling but few if any, caused by pedicle tram recon. Medical procedures always scare me now. You should go to a certified lymphedema therapist, or CLT. I then researched seroma after abdominal surgery and I found its a fairly common side effect. 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. Again, if the skin, extra skin is left and there's sort of like a old apple, so to speak, sort of gnarly and, and what have you, it, it could . Abdominal swelling may have multiple causes as listed by Bookish. Its hard to get people to understand that. 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. Keep a close, very close eye on any cuts (even the smallest). Do you think I would benefit from a chest and abdominal binder? Most surgeons seem to feel that the area settles more quickly if it is left to absorb into the surrounding tissues naturally. You should go to a certified lymphedema therapist, or CLT. Thanks! 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. At age 65, I am 11 days post op after a simple left breast mastectomy. I am a very small frame and I am 74 all most 75 years of age. As a retired RN the abdominal bloating made no sense at all. Also, try walking to help. I wear the abdominal binder during the day at work and the shorts if I'm relaxing around the house etc.. When those nodes are removed, Lymphedema may occur. There's evanmarcus again appearing on the forum with slightly odd remarks.. It may also be difficult to sleep flat for a while. Go to the Breast Cancer Support Group. That was two years ago and I never did the belly binder. We spent extra time with our doctors asking questions to help us understand what we were getting into. Also given the line that it just looks bigger because you have no breasts. Swelling After Surgery Is it Normal? Doctors typically provide answers within 24 hours. Thanks for providing that information. I'm in crazy California (northern) and have Kaiser Permanente. If you had a mastectomy without breast reconstruction, youll be given a prosthesis to wear. Please tell me it will go away. It's not caused by gas, which most of the suggestions are referring to. I woke up from the first surgery with it. This is typically 3 days or less. I have read some great info though! Sorry for any confusion. After eight years in the system and with an excellent BCN I would always use her as my first port of call. This is such a common problem after a mastectomy that I would think doctors would admit that it is a problem and address it. It amy require treatment with Dr. Pamela Pappas and another doctor agree. Doing so can help your recovery go as smoothly as possible. September 2009 edited March 2014 #1. The hospital and my surgeon said", "I have mild lymphedema in one arm after a bilateral mastectomy where seventeen lymph nodes were", "@chamisa See my post below. The dr said that it was lymphatic fluid gathering at the bottom of my breast due to the surgery. thanks for replying , it is a great idea and despite buying highly expensive support pants Ive found a swimming costume helps a lot - seems to even the load all out! Surprised how many women are experiencing abdominal bloating. Regular massage, especially deep tissue, can be harmful. Lymphedema is a build-up of lymph fluid in the fatty tissues just under your skin. Complete your request online or contact us by phone. I started this thread back in 2013/4 so there have been lots of views and posts since then. I was in excellent physical shape when I underwent my hysterectomy (Not to brag, but I actually had a six-pack!). Any ideas why the arm swell, or become edematous, after a radial mastectomy? Other things to consider having on hand at home are: Its likely that youll need some help at home in the days and weeks after your mastectomy. For how long would it take to develop swelling from a flu shot if you had a mastectomy on that side? These are typically removed during a follow-up visit. Its common to have pain or discomfort after a mastectomy. I can't put the link. Oooh! Heres what to expect. Ido have swelling around my side and back, and under my arm, and a feeling on the upperunderside of my arm of a rubbing sensation, as if it's badly grazed.i guess this is all post op symptoms but just wondered if anyone else has experienced this. This occurs when the bowels do not move regularly, which can cause bloating and abdominal pain. What were your test results? Go back to your doctor and ask for a scan that will show up fluid. Connect with thousands of patients and caregivers for support, practical information, and answers. I had a mastectomy one year ago and now i am noticing swelling and pain in my arm. Did you get a response? I've lost nearly a stone since the op, and have been going to the gym three times a week. If anyone has a rave review of someone who does MLD (manual lymphatic drainage) in Minneapolis, please share. Not do vigorous, repetitive movements against resistance with the affected arm.
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