Hello Arundell

I'm sorry to hear that you need to have breast surgery. It's understandable that you may be feeling a little anxious about things but hopefully, the histology results will bring reassurance that all is well. 

Hopefully, some of the ladies here on the forum who have had a lumpectomy or other similar breast surgery will post to share their experiences with you. 

It's likely that you will have some discomfort for a few days post-surgery and the hospital may advise you to wear a supportive bra such as a sports type fit as this can help. Keeping on top of pain relief it important as well. 

I'm unsure where on your breast the lump is but if it's on the outside of your breast it may be worth thinking about a small cushion or something similar you already have in the house that you can pop under your armpit. Many women find that this makes things more comfortable. 

In terms of work, I think that it's probably a very personal decision. Presumably, you will be having the surgery under a general anaesthetic so don't forget you will have to talk into account that that can have an impact on how you're feeling for a few days post-operatively. It may be that you feel fine from the surgery but too tired to concentrate on work from the anesthetic. Perhaps you manager would be open to you working flexibly for a few days if you don't want to take any more time off. 

I hope that all goes smoothly for you. Do let us know how you get on after your surgery. 

Best wishes, 
Jenn
Cancer Chat moderator 

Thank you Jenn for the detailed reply, that really helped.

For anyone interested, thought I'd share my experience:

I had the surgery yesterday, admitted at 11am and did not get down to theatre until 430pm - at least hunger/hanger lol replaced some anxiety! (Nil by mouth from 7am)

Woke up in recovery room at 630, advised it all went well. I bought some wireless cotton bras for comfort which seem to be working well. Prescribed just paracetamol and ibuprofen for pain - feel totally fine when lying down but seem to be pretty uncomfortable with a sort of heavy feeling in my chest when I try and sit up or move. But no stingy pain. 

Surprised by how big the dressing is given the size of the lump was not expecting that!

Looking forward to seeing consultant so can hopefully just confirm all benign