Mastectomy - Drain & Fluid

Hi, 

I've just had a mastectomy on one breast and lymph nodes to remove breast cancer and have been allowed home with a drain in. After 2 days the drain stopped draining fluid (nurses have checked and said the vacuum is still on so possibly that I just have nothing left to drain). My scar and underarm is quite swollen though and it's like my breast is growing back a little. Is this normal or should I be concerned that I'm getting fluid build up?? 
A nurse is due to come and remove the drain tomorrow (5 days after operation). Wondering what others experience is with drains and fluid build up? 
 

Thank you 

x 
 

Parents
  • Hello and thanks for your post,

     I am sorry to hear that you have been through surgery and I can understand the not knowing what to expect can be quite stressful.

    It is good to hear that other members of the forum have commented on their experiences though everyone's situation maybe slightly different.

    I am sure the nurse will reassure you when she sees you as she is the best person to assess your wound and drain as she will be able to physically see the area.

     Normally drains stay in for 2 to 5 days depending on how much they are draining. You will expect to have some swelling after the surgery which is normal after any surgery. Numbness can happen and is probably as a result of the nerves being damaged during surgery. All to be expected. 

    Some swelling is expected and is usually part of the healing process. You may find it helpful to read the information written by Breast Cancer Now about what to expect after surgery which you can see here

    and our information here

    I do hope that this has helped put your mind at rest.

    If at any stage you would like to ring to speak to one of the helpline nurses then you are more then welcome to do so. Our number  is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Take Care,

    Catherine

Reply
  • Hello and thanks for your post,

     I am sorry to hear that you have been through surgery and I can understand the not knowing what to expect can be quite stressful.

    It is good to hear that other members of the forum have commented on their experiences though everyone's situation maybe slightly different.

    I am sure the nurse will reassure you when she sees you as she is the best person to assess your wound and drain as she will be able to physically see the area.

     Normally drains stay in for 2 to 5 days depending on how much they are draining. You will expect to have some swelling after the surgery which is normal after any surgery. Numbness can happen and is probably as a result of the nerves being damaged during surgery. All to be expected. 

    Some swelling is expected and is usually part of the healing process. You may find it helpful to read the information written by Breast Cancer Now about what to expect after surgery which you can see here

    and our information here

    I do hope that this has helped put your mind at rest.

    If at any stage you would like to ring to speak to one of the helpline nurses then you are more then welcome to do so. Our number  is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Take Care,

    Catherine

Children
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