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Swelling following full lymph node clearance for breast cancer

Kaz62
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Hi, just a little concern due to the swelling I have following full LN clearance on 23 Jan last Thursday.  

although not painful, I have swelling around surgery site between left breast and armpit. It feels like a hot water bottle that is not quite full of water (it’s not hot to touch) just squigy, is this normal or should I contact the breast clinic.  I have my results appt on 5 Feb with consultant. 

many thanks x

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    Hi Kaz,

    A very warm welcome to our forum.

    Some of us do get a build up of fluid after surgery. In most cases the fluid resolves with the passage of time. If it doesn't and it gets particularly sore, the fluid can be aspirated. This gives immediate relief. Doctors are not keen to do this, unless the area is especially sore, as removing the fluid, encourages further build up. Try to wait until your appointment on 5th February, but contact your breast care nurse if the pain worsens in the meantime.

    Please keep in touch and let us know how you get on. We are always here for you.

    Kind regards,

    Jolamine xx

  • Offline in reply to Jolamine

    Dear Jolamine,  thank you so much for coming back to me so promptly x you have certainly put my mind at ease x  take care and yes I will keep in touch! Thank you x kaz 

  • Hello and thanks for posting,

    It is normal to have some soft tissue swelling and bruising after recent surgery, and this can last for up to 6 to 8 weeks.

    Try to follow the after care advice, and not over use your arms for now, but do daily gentle movements to help with the soreness and stiffness. It is only a week till you see your hospital doctor, which is a reasonable timeframe. If your symptoms worsen, or you are worried, then do ring your hospital breast care nurse, or else your GP or NHS 111.

    Breast Cancer Now have useful information after breast cancer surgery

    I hope this helps,

    Vanda

  • Offline in reply to CRUK Nurse Vanda

    Hi Vanda,

    Thank you for your email.

    I feel more at ease now with the swelling and I am certainly doing the first stage exercises which does help a lot.   The swelling does fluctuate daily so it is draining!  

    take care and thank you x

    kaz 

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