Cancer Research UK main site

Post lumpectomy and lymph node removal - does anyone have any advice on how to sleep comfortably?

Tronny
Offline

Hi. 

Does anyone have any advice on sleeping comfortably after a lumpectomy and lymph node removal?

I tend to sleep in the recovery position which I will be unable to do.

I looked at special pillows on Amazon which had very mixed reviews. 

Maybe just a carefully positioned normal pillow is all one needs?  

Thank you........ 

  • Offline

    Hi Tronny,

    A very warm welcome to our forum. 

    I am sorry to hear that you are finding it difficult to sleep since your surgery. Unfortunately, there is no easy answer to this, although some find that mindfulness help.

    I sleep on my side too and I still managed to do this after my lumpectomy and my double mastectomy. I invested in a small heart shaped cushion, which I place under the arm on the side that I was sleeping on. I felt uncomfortable to start with, but I soon got used to it. I found the cushion a boon, even when I was sitting. I hope that your recovery goes well and that you'll soon be feeling more comfortable too.

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

    Kind regards,

    Jolamine xx

  • Offline in reply to Jolamine

    Hi Jolamine. 

    I'm trying to plan ahead at the moment, my surgery is scheduled for the 15th March so I've not had it yet.

    Having already had 3 biopsies and a magseed implanted and having a little discomfort sleeping, I'm anticipating more discomfort after surgery.

    However, after reading what you've had done, I'll not make too much fuss and I'll take your advice and have a cushion /pillow for support.

    Thank you for responding and being here for us, thank you xx

  • Offline in reply to Tronny

    Hi Tronny,

    I was in discomfort for quite a while after my biopsies too - I suspect that most people are. I'm sure that you're keen to get your surgery behind you, although you are bound to be anxious about it. The operation was much easier than I expected it to be.  Do you know what type of breast cancer you have?

    I shall be thinking of you on 15th and hope that it all goes well.

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

    Kind regards,

    Jolamine xx

  • Offline

    Hi Tronny

    i bought a big pillow that had arms in it. It was like a big hug. It propped me up and stopped me rolling over. I preferred to be raised rather than flat on my back . I had a mountain of other pillows too ! Under my arm , and after 8 weeks , I slept hugging one on my side  I will be honest, you just don’t sleep very well after the op, but you can nap when you need too. People told me I looked really well,after the op and  I agree, that I did, wishing you well !!  

  • Offline in reply to Jabazzle

    Hi Jabazzle

    That pillow sounds lovely, I will look out for one. 

    I'm half expecting poor sleeping patterns as I'm guessing the armpit incision will be very tender and sore.  I shall invest in some pillows, thank you.   

  • Offline in reply to Tronny

    Hi Tronny,

    Check first, as some hospitals provide cushions post-op.

    Kind regards,

    Jolamine xx

  • Offline in reply to Jabazzle

    Ooooh thank you. I looked at that and I just happen to be going there this afternoon

Speak to a nurse

Quick links

Follow us

Registered with Fundraising Regulator (logo)
Cancer Research UK is a registered charity in England and Wales (1089464), Scotland (SC041666), the Isle of Man (1103) and Jersey (247). A company limited by guarantee. Registered company in England and Wales (4325234) and the Isle of Man (5713F). Registered address: 2 Redman Place, London, E20 1JQ.