Swollen breast after mastectomy

I had a single mastectomy with implant 3 weeks ago.  My breast is larger and firmer than my natural breast and I'm a little self-conscious of it.  The surgeon said the implant would be slightly smaller than my natural breast so I'm not sure why it's larger. Could it be because it's swollen due to body fluid?

I know it's early days but I would like to hear if any other ladies have experienced this, just to put my mind at ease.

  • Hello Georgie3

    I'm sorry to hear that you're feeling worried and self-conscious following your recent mastectomy and breast reconstruction

    Three weeks really is still very early days in the healing process and it's likely that you will still have some swelling from the surgery. 

    Do you have a post-surgery appointment arranged with the breast team? If not,m and you're still feeling anxious about things, then do give your Breast care nurse a call. I'm sure they will be happy to offer some support and reassurance and arrange to get you into the clinic if they feel it's necessary. 

    Undoubtedly you've been through a lot both physically and emotionally since your diagnosis. It's natural to want things to be as good as they can as quickly as they can but be kind to yourself Georgie. Take things a day at a time. It's important that you give yourself the time and space to heal properly and hopefully it won't be too much longer till you feel happier with the results. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator 

  • Thanks you for your reply.

    I'm now four weeks post-mastectomy and my breast is still swollen, hard and a little sore with the odd stabbing pain, does this mean it's still healing?  I contacted the Breast Nurse and she says it's normal, but I can't help feeling a little worried and disappointed as I thought my breast would be healed by now and not so swollen which makes me very self-conscious.

    I wonder if there is anyone here that has been through the same experience and how long did it take to feel/look normal again?