Mastectomy recovery and lump after surgery

I have had a single sided mastectomy just over a week ago with lymph clearance. There is still swelling but I have a hard lump with a kind of u shaped fold of skin to the side of the armpit. Is this typical swelling post surgery or do I now have an uncomfortable and unsightly lump that will be permanent? It gets in the way of my physio too as I can't properly straiten my arm or rest straight down to my side. 

  • Hello and thanks for your enquiry,

    It is still quite early in your recovery, so there may well be some swelling and lumpiness remaining from the surgery. Surgical wounds can take take several months to fully settle.

    Do ask your hospital breast care nurse about this, and for some skin care tips. Usually once the suture (stitches) have closed and healed, then you can apply vitamin E oil, or scar tissue oil to massage into the area to help the skin become more supple again and reduce scarring.

    I hope that this helps, and your ongoing recovery goes well for you,

    Best wishes,

    Vanda

  • Many thanks for the response. I didn't expect the deep u shaped dent in the chest area. I hope it will lessen or go entirely. It was unanticipated and is upsetting that the change is more than just breast loss.