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wide excision lumpectomy experiences

really_scared

I am booked for WEL on Monday, I go in for 07.30, day surgery. Absolutely terrified. It has all happened so fast of late (after so long of nothing found when it was there).

If you had a wide WEL what was your hospital and recovery experience? what would you tell me to expect, what were you pleased you took in with you, what did you take in you didn't need, what did you need at home for recovery, what pain relief. etc.

love to you all xx

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    Really scared 

    my experience went so very well 

    I had my lunpectomy and sentil node biopsy was in hospital overnight as I had evening surgery in a private clinic 

    I was up and about as normal in the morning no pain whatsoever out shopping the next day didn't feel at all like I had a operation 

    went back for results sadly I had a trace in one of the sentil nodes so had another operation removing 30 nodes finally these nodes were all clear I was so happy 

    I took a few paracetamol throughout the 2 operations I worked all the way through from home obviously 

    it's mind over matter stay strong and positive and you will fly it 

    anything else  I can help with I'm here to chat 

    Love Lara ️

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    Hi reallyscared, I had a WEL with sentinel node removal (3 I think) three weeks ago today too - lump just over 20mm. I was a day patient - in at 8am and out mid-afternoon. Surgery was fine. Useful were tops/bra that are front-fastening or that you can step into as it's hard to lift arms. Also slip on shoes and a book. Like Lara, recovery was pretty good. I got fairly good sleep using a v-shaped pillow to stop me rolling on to side. Walked to coffee shop next day as I was desperate to get out but felt very tired. Did take me just over two weeks to get full movement back in arm. I am 50, bit creaky (!!) but no other health issues. Remember to drink a lot of water and to have painkillers in easy reach at home. Best of luck with the surgery xx

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    Hi there, 

    I went in and came out on the same day too, in terms of what to take with you a front fastening bra and slip on shoes are brilliant ideas, as well as anything that will keep your mind occupied! I took magazines in as I knew I wouldn't be able to concentrate on a book.

    For the recovery, I had a small squashy cushion that I took everywhere with me - the lymph nodes were taken from my armpit which made it fairly uncomfortable unfortunately. If it's your dominant side you may struggle with chopping things, which hadn't occurred to me beforehand. Again, easy to get on, soft bras are great, and some easy to get on clothes for the first few days. I also bought some hypoallergenic shower gel, so I could feel like I'd had a proper shower after the first few days.

    I hope that helps x

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