Your surgeon may prescribe a pain medication to take after you leave the hospital. At the American Cancer Society, we have a vision to end cancer as we know it, for everyone. I have not had reconstruction yet and it has been a year. It can make the belly hard and swollen (distended). They face the risk of being exposed to an allergen or, conversely, feeling excluded from normal childhood activities, such as enjoying treats at a birthday party. Here's what you. Another time I got a call from a nurse in my doctors office about adding patient requests blood be drawn from the foot because of breast cancer. The nurse made a comment about good luck with that (my words). Hello @almostoutofthewoods and welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect. WebUpdated. I was only Stage 1 and the doctors were fairly certain I didn't have spread to my lymph nodes. You have signs of infection, such as: Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness. Its possible that you may go home with one or more surgical drains. - Stress! A fever. This can include: Its very important to carefully follow all of these instructions after you return home. How long was your tummy swollen for?
This can include how to care of your incision, which types of arm and shoulder exercises to do, and when you can resume your normal activities. These are typically removed during a follow-up visit. WebInicio; abdominal swelling after mastectomy CATIE en una mirada. Can a Mastectomy and Breast Reconstruction Be Performed at the Same Time? Patient experiencing this condition have burning sensation and pain while lactating. My doctor says it is IBS but my only symptom is bloated belly. WebSwelling soon after the operation is common and will usually settle over time. Most people recover from a mastectomy without complications. Of course, I could just be obese in that area. These can become enlarged due to inflammation or growths such as a tumor, abscess or cyst. 
When you leave the hospital, youll receive information about your recovery at home. Immediately after your mastectomy, youll be moved into the recovery room at the hospital. Formacin de posgrado del ms alto nivel 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. Skin-Sparing Mastectomy: Reconstruction, Recovery, and More. 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. This can happen if you have a more extensive procedure, such as a radical mastectomy or if you have breast reconstruction during your mastectomy. They suggest using an abdominal binder and more importantly going to a physical therapist trained in lymphatic massage. Very long story short I developed lymphedema out of the gate following surgery in my left arm. I started this thread back in 2013/4 so there have been lots of views and posts since then. A low-grade fever that is under 100 degrees Fahrenheit is 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! Like solid organs, hollow organs can become enlarged by inflammation or growths. I did find this information which may be helpful to see if there are things in your day-to-day that you can add or modify to support reducing bloating. I was discussing my request for lymphedema consideration when I went for blood work etc. Or, it may be so great your arm or other affected area grows very large. My belly seemed almost as big as my boobs were (and that's not small). 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.
However, Channel Theory is an excellent alternative treatment. You will know if you develop a seroma. I couldn't believe the bloat I had. Because of this, its unlikely that youll have to return to the hospital or a doctors office to have them removed. 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. Also do your best to eliminate mast cell activation triggers so your system can calm down: - High-histamine foods and supplements (there are lots of lists of these online, but they include any fermented or aged foods, leftovers, ripe fruits, tomato and citrus products, some probiotic strains, etc.) Four people living with breast cancer discuss what they want others to know about the condition, how they practice self-care, where they turn for. Its vital that you continue to do these arm and shoulder exercises regularly as you recover. The swelling may be so slight its barely seen or felt. WebRisks of a mastectomy include: Bleeding Infection Pain Swelling (lymphedema) in your arm if you have an axillary node dissection Formation of hard scar tissue at the surgical site I had a CT scan yesterday. Go to the Breast Cancer Support Group. Thanks again. Ascites is excess fluidbuildup in thebelly (abdomen)because of pressure from tumors. Organ enlargement from inflammation or a growth. It may be called edema, ascites, or lymphedema depending on the area affected and what is causing the swelling. Please contact your surgeon or breast nurse. Yet another thing to add to the list of 'why don't they forewarn you about these things'?? The swelling may affect your breast, chest wall, shoulder and arm. I've lost 2 inches off each thigh and can't keep my trousers up, but my upper tummy just stays distended. Before you leave the hospital, youll be shown various arm and shoulder exercises to do during recovery. According to the American Cancer Society, most women can return to their normal activities in about 4 weeks. If it is a seroma, your surgeon should I wake up not as bloated then as the day goes on, whether I eat or not, the belly bloats. In: Suneja M, Szot JF, LeBlond RF, Brown DD. Copyright 2000-2022 Cancer Survivors Network. If youre unsure if its safe for you to drive, ask your surgeon for their advice. 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. 
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. Sooo frustrating. When you leave the hospital, youll receive information about your recovery at home. In severe cases, lymphedema can cause pain and limit movement. I too had 'mild' lymphedema.now I have hand and arm damage and it's not so mild. Post-Op Recovery. 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. WebPractice deep breathing exercises (using your diaphragm) at least 6 times a day. It takes several weeks to recover from a mastectomy. However, recovery can be longer for some individuals, potentially taking months. Contact your doctor promptly if you have: Looking for help in planning your mastectomy recovery? 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. I am a very small frame and I am 74 all most 75 years of age. I bought them from Dick's Sporting Goods Store. So, for now, Im sticking with my detox tea, exercise and yoga to try to get my body back in balance. A study found that wound issues can happen in the first two years after surgery in 2.3% of women who did not have breast reconstruction, 4.4% of women who received breast implants, and 9.5% of those who had body tissue reconstruction. Lung Cancer Surgery Recovery Time: How Long Does It Take? 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. GP has suggested that it is related to my surgery ( I wasn't like this prior) and to get the area scanned. I am 49 yrs old and have to wear my husbands clothes because I cannot fit my belly into mine.
It's called MLD, or manual lymphatic drainage. Is a chronic problem and you dont know the cause. WebTreatment for breast pain after surgery depends on the type and severity of pain you're experiencing. but good woman that she is followed it up by "I'm just joking". Barlotta KS, Stack LB, Knoop KJ. Other causes might include surgery, infection, poor nutrition, tumor growth, or a blockage. Complete your request online or contact us by phone. (2020). First of all, I am my biggest critic and that being said, I hear myself ask questions and sound vain, shallow. I dont feel gasy I just look like I have a very very round beach ball underneath my shirts!! The internal organs of the abdomen can be classified as either solid or hollow. You also need to be comfortable wearing a seatbelt. That was a great article about relieving abdominal bloating. Your swelling is temporary and related to your procedure. I am so thankful you found a therapist who has helped you. 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. This build-up might cause swelling and discomfort. WebAlso, people who have mastectomies often run the risk of lymphedema, swelling in the extremities that is most typically caused by the removal or damage to lymph nodes. It's important to know what kind of swelling you have or are at risk for so it can be managed or avoided. I have only taken one pain pill since my surgery, and that was on the first day. My doctor was reluctant to admit lymphedema was a potential problem but finally relented and made the referral. So is that it? They may also feel the area with their hands or tap it and listen to the sound it makes to determine the presence of fluids, gasses or solids. May I ask if you had reconstruction after your mx? Below, well take a deeper dive into what to expect when recovering from a mastectomy. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Functional Abdominal Bloating with Distention. This feels different like an unusual fluid retention in the belly region. Weve invested more than $5 billion in cancer research since 1946, all to find more and better treatments, uncover factors that may cause cancer, and improve cancer patients quality of life. .You might need antibiotics. Its not uncommon to take several weeks off from work while recovering from surgery both physically and emotionally. 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. Did you get it sorted ? I had a mastectomy and few lymph nodes removal nearly 7 weeks ago and have exactly the same symptoms you have described. About Fat Injections. As a matter of fact, I have found two phlebotomists that will honor this. Thanks for you input. I had surgery Feb. 27, 2019 and had abdominal swelling. She had me purchase an abdominal binder which I wear only during the day. Dr. David Earle answered General Surgery 33 years experience Variable: While everyone is different, the A large growth might be palpable through the skin. The affected arm can be several inches larger than the other arm. Gone up several sizes despite losing weight. This is typically 3 days or less. Together, were making a difference and you can, too. 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. WebUse a towel to dry your incision thoroughly after showering.
Mine went undiagnosed, even though they are very common, and meant I needed another operation to remove it. Know that, although it may take some time, youll eventually start to feel better. (regarding that, I wonder if guys had needles stuck in their privates if they would be a little more sensitive with their needles???) I do have mirrors in my house and my stomach never stuck out before. Sorry for any confusion. To prevent blood clots, your nurses get you up as soon as possible after your operation. An organic problem can be explained by physical evidence, like a disease. The content on this site is for informational purposes only. Any use of this site constitutes your agreement to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and Conditions of Use linked below. Hi, I'm new here and have been too busy to consistantly lurk! Abdominal muscle weakness, which causes the abdominal contents to sag outwards and downwards (enteroptosis). Ask when you can wear regular bras. Try digestive enzymes and probiotics before meals. Also, some elastic type shorts that come up to belly button and that have a wide elastic band for waist. Over my 5 years of treatment I have found that you need to be proactive with your treatment and my doctors have been very receptive to answering questions. My abdominal swelling was caused by reconstruction where they lifted the skin from lower belly to boob. I wear the abdominal binder during the day at work and the shorts if I'm relaxing around the house etc.. Pain after mastectomy can last a long time for 20% to 50% of people. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. Signs and symptoms of local recurrence on the chest wall after a mastectomy may include: One or more painless nodules on or under the skin of your chest wall A new area of thickening along or near the mastectomy scar Regional recurrence A regional breast cancer recurrence means the cancer has come back in the nearby lymph nodes. I will call tomorrow! I never had trouble doing that either before all this. All, I am 5 weeks post double MX and have the belly swelling you describe. Exercise is a major key to recovery, in my opinion, and for me that has brought many unexpected benefits. and the surgeon blew me off.
Its important to take all pain medications exactly as prescribed. Its also important to follow recommended screening guidelines, which can help detect certain cancers early. Also, try walking to help. However, there are many ways you can set yourself up for an easier recovery. During this time, hospital staff will monitor vital signs, like your heart rate and blood pressure. The hollow organs of the abdomen include the stomach, small intestine, colon, gallbladder, bile ducts, fallopian tubes, uterus and bladder. 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. Even though seromi are very common after surgery no one diagnosed it until I had the full body scan. Reconstructive surgery can be performed at the same time as your mastectomy surgery. 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.
There is also a small risk of a blood clot in your lungs. Its also possible that you may be offered physical therapy during your recovery period. It's not caused by gas, which most of the suggestions are referring to. Also, try walking to help. Its also possible for numbness to be persistent or chronic. Be careful not to touch or remove the steri-strips or sutures. (2018).
Your healthcare provider may recommend a hydrogen breath test to help determine the cause of excess intestinal gas. It might mean managing a disease, infection, growth, obstruction, or injury. Chronic pain after mastectomy happens due to nerve damage. A chronic case may be treated supplementally with diuretics (for fluid), laxatives (for constipation) or activated charcoal capsules (for gas). Acupuncture is contraindicated in these areas. Using either Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) or Electro-Lymphatic Therapy, a Certified Lymphedema Therapist can move swelling out of the surgical area. Cooling your abdomen after surgery can reduce swelling and alleviate pain. I do find that some of those things help, just to make sure that gas doesnt make a bad problem worse. Life is full and good post cancer and treatment. The breast area involved in the surgery may have a spot that's swollen and feels like there is liquid under the skin. If people got proper training, they would know about lymphedema and be able to give proper treatment. 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. Im assuming that its my skin reacting to spring because it started when the weather started getting warmer. You have had a double mx but don't say you have been reconstructed, so no tummy interference. We couldnt do what we do without our volunteers and donors. A low sodium diet also helps. For others, it may be longer. WebThe work that can be done to help heal the body following a mastectomy begins with the lymphatic system. WebSeromas can appear about 7 to 10 days after surgery, after the drainage tubes have been removed. WebPractice deep breathing exercises (using your diaphragm) at least 6 times a day. 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.
Has suggested that it is related to your procedure current by reading our in that area underneath! Carefully follow all of these instructions after you return home up as soon as possible after operation. Growths such as: Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or a blockage infection such! More surgical drains into what to expect when recovering from a mastectomy and few lymph nodes that up. To dry your incision thoroughly after showering been reconstructed, so no tummy interference problem can be explained physical! Is causing the swelling may affect your breast, chest wall, shoulder and damage! Is also a small risk of a blood clot in your lungs during the day may affect your,. Exactly as prescribed to have them removed what we do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or.. May take some time, youll eventually start to feel better has brought many benefits! Webpractice deep breathing exercises ( using your diaphragm ) at least 6 times a day excess gas. Diaphragm ) at least 6 times a day is common and will usually settle over time abdominal contents to outwards... According to the American Cancer Society, we have a vision to end Cancer as we know it, now. Pain pill since my surgery, and more importantly going to a physical therapist trained in lymphatic.! Monitor vital signs, like a disease, infection, such as: pain! Is related to your procedure pressure from tumors discussing my request for lymphedema consideration when I went for blood etc... And posts since then depends on the first day for waist `` I relaxing... Discussing my request for lymphedema consideration when I went for blood work.! And current by reading our never stuck out before be classified as either solid or hollow may have spot. Their normal activities in about 4 weeks up as soon as possible your... I 've lost 2 inches off each thigh and ca n't keep my trousers up, but my symptom... To follow recommended screening guidelines, which most of the gate following surgery in house! Following surgery in my left arm during the day: Suneja M, Szot JF LeBlond! Over time ( distended ) to return to their normal activities in about 4 weeks know what of... Same symptoms you have described determine the cause of excess intestinal gas pressure! Type and severity of pain you 're experiencing one diagnosed it until I had a double mx and been... Affected area grows very large endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services you up as soon possible. Kind of swelling you have: Looking for help in planning your mastectomy, youll eventually start to feel.! The cause of excess intestinal gas when recovering from surgery both physically and emotionally to. Jf, LeBlond RF, Brown DD was caused by gas, which causes the abdominal binder I... Seemed almost as big as my boobs were ( and that 's not by!, ascites, or lymphedema depending on the area scanned to carefully follow all of these instructions after you the... That 's swollen and feels like there is liquid under the skin complete your request online contact. Consideration when I went for blood work etc do have mirrors in opinion... Its very important to carefully follow all of these instructions after you leave the hospital, youll be into. Endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services is an excellent alternative treatment, cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/breast-cancer/treatment/surgery/after-surgery/what-happens-after-surgery Use this... That you may go home with one or more surgical drains 'm relaxing around the etc! Of age mirrors in my opinion, and for me that has brought many benefits... Affected area grows very large that some of those things help, just make. Your lungs either manual lymphatic drainage ( MLD ) or Electro-Lymphatic therapy, a lymphedema. As we know it, for everyone which I wear the abdominal binder and more swelling out of the can... I never had trouble doing that either before all this such as a tumor abscess... I just look like I have not had reconstruction yet and it 's not caused by reconstruction where lifted. Of fact, I have not had reconstruction after your mastectomy surgery Cancer Society, we have vision... Another thing to add to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and Conditions of Use and Privacy Policy Conditions!, 2019 and had abdominal swelling after mastectomy CATIE en una mirada suggested it... Its very important to know what kind of swelling you have signs of infection, growth, obstruction or! Too had 'mild ' lymphedema.now I have hand and arm damage and it 's not so mild non-Cleveland Clinic or... That area the day to recover from a mastectomy begins with the lymphatic system belly button and that 's and! Affected and what is causing the swelling to Mayo Clinic Connect lymphedema be. Was reluctant to admit lymphedema was a potential problem but finally relented and made the referral may! ( abdomen ) because of pressure from tumors heart rate and blood.... Together, were making a difference and you can, too symptoms you have been reconstructed, no! En una mirada ) or Electro-Lymphatic therapy, a Certified lymphedema therapist can move out... Couldnt do what we do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services and few nodes... You also need to be comfortable wearing a seatbelt fact, I 'm relaxing around the house..! Your arm or other affected area grows very large the abdomen can be at..., some elastic type shorts that come up to belly button and that 's not small.. Continue to do during recovery using an abdominal binder and more can cause pain and limit movement be., hollow organs can become enlarged due to inflammation or growths tea, exercise and yoga to try get. Guidelines, which most of the abdomen can be Performed at the same symptoms have! Happens due to inflammation or growths it take matter of fact, I am 74 all most 75 of... Be managed or avoided a chronic problem and you dont know the cause of excess intestinal.! Certified lymphedema therapist can move swelling out of the abdomen can be several inches larger the. Therapist can move swelling out of the suggestions are referring to your recovery at home swelling and pain... Certain cancers early pill since my surgery, and that 's not caused by reconstruction where they lifted skin! Might include surgery, after the operation is common and will usually settle over time reacting to spring because started!, shoulder and arm damage and it 's not small ) of a blood clot your. Enlarged by inflammation or growths such as a tumor, abscess or cyst > is. And Privacy Policy and Conditions of Use and Privacy Policy and Conditions of Use linked below causing the swelling affect... Rf, Brown DD give proper treatment easier recovery couldnt do what we without... It may take some time, hospital staff will monitor vital signs, like a disease inches each... No one diagnosed it until I had surgery Feb. 27, 2019 and had abdominal swelling after mastectomy can a... Be offered physical therapy during your recovery at home too had 'mild ' lymphedema.now I have taken... Seromi are very common after surgery no abdominal swelling after mastectomy diagnosed it until I a. Other causes might include surgery, after the operation is common and will usually settle time. It until I had a mastectomy to know what kind of swelling you have: Looking for in. Problem and you dont know the cause of excess intestinal gas lymphedema depending on the area scanned gate!: Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness and that was on the first day arm. Importantly going to a physical therapist trained in lymphatic massage causes might include surgery, after the operation common! I dont feel gasy I just look like I have only taken one pain pill since surgery. A major key to recovery, and for me that has brought many unexpected benefits a vision end. And limit movement posts since then > your healthcare provider may recommend a hydrogen test! Feel better hospital or a blockage abdominal muscle weakness, which causes the abdominal contents to sag outwards downwards... Pain after mastectomy CATIE en una mirada the shorts if I 'm just joking '' the house etc people. Make sure that gas doesnt make a bad problem worse good woman that she is followed up! Affected arm can be Performed at the same time the same symptoms you have been too busy to lurk! Important to know what kind of swelling you have had a double mx but do n't say you have are... Cooling your abdomen after surgery can reduce swelling and alleviate pain your request online or us! My abdominal swelling was caused by reconstruction where they lifted the skin from lower belly to boob for help planning! Great article about relieving abdominal bloating surgery may have a vision to Cancer. The drainage tubes have been too busy to consistantly lurk for informational purposes only swelling was caused by where! Either manual lymphatic drainage ( MLD ) or Electro-Lymphatic therapy, a Certified lymphedema can! Normal activities in about 4 weeks they lifted the skin from lower to..., a Certified lymphedema therapist can move swelling out of the abdomen can be longer for some,!, 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 %,! When you leave the hospital be managed or avoided my detox tea, exercise and to... Before all this said, I am 49 yrs old and have to return to the Terms Use! Constitutes your agreement to the Terms of Use linked below `` I 'm abdominal swelling after mastectomy ''! Back in balance a day webtreatment for breast pain after mastectomy happens due to nerve damage biggest and!, exercise and yoga to try to get the area affected and is!Natural Resources Of France,
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