Only 2 years in and going for 2nd side mastectomy.

Sketa

Hi everyone - just touching base and a bit of support.  I had a left mastectomy in 2021 - several nodes also removed and am going in for right side mastectomy.  I am wanting to know if any of you are suffering with scoliosis, shoulder/upper body chest pain and under arm in the node area (on both sides still) - after having a one-sided L. mastectomy?  Will my pain increase after this next surgery and could scoliosis get worse or better? 
Just need to clear my cobwebs before going in next week.

arpie

Hi @sketa

Hopefully your surgery next week will 'even you up' and lessen the shoulder/upper body pain ... but if it continues, definitely ask to see a pain specialist as they should be able to help you.

In the mean time, check out this post on the forum, where it covers so many different areas in the forum that you may like to look at - not all BC related!  We even get to have a laugh as well now & then, as well as support from fellow members xx  There are also 'tick sheets' at the bottom that you can print off & do self assessments on your physical and mental health, to take with you to your appointments to show your team .... 
https://onlinenetwork.bcna.org.au/discussion/comment/215364#Comment_215364

take care & all the best for next week xx

Sketa

Thanks again @arpie I will look a bit more on the forum.  You know, for the last 2 years I thought I could do all of this alone, but sometimes you just have to throw that mentality out the window!

Fufan

Hi @Sketa.  I assume you are talking about a prophylactic mastectomy because of the scoliosis?  I had a left mastectomy 18 months ago, and am now contemplating having the right one off too, though for rather different reasons.  There is a private group on this site called Flat Chat, and I suggest you ask to join it.  There, in private, you can share the views of others on the topic.  You are not alone.

Sketa

Thank you for responding @Fufan. Yes, I am only little and an ex-dancer, so I have had a rough 2 years with balance and back pain.  I will know more after the surgery, if I am in the clear. God on my side, I'll be clear.  

Sketa

Back again.  So, the surgery had a few hiccups.  Recovery has been quite difficult and not as much movement and progress, even though I did not have nodes removed.  Two stints in emergency only days after being sent home early - in for clots and infection. Went down the MRI CT scans, body and brain stans, dyes for tumors and clots - collapsed veins and generally feeling like sh*&.  This week, I am again on medication for suspected osteomyelitis, of which I pray is not the case.  My moods have gone from, hey, I think I'm going to be okay, to worrying about whether or not things get worse.  I tell myself everyday - God will take care of me, I will mend and I don't have this.  I am just praying...

arpie

xxx  Gosh you've had a hard time of it, @Sketa .... Rest up, let them take care of you xx.  I hope you feel/recover better, soon xx

Blossom1961

@Sketa I am a control freak. Once the situation was no longer mine to control, I did what you did. Let God deal with it. When things got bad, I cried and yelled. He understood. I am praying for you too.

Sketa

Thank you @arpie and @Blossom1961 - yes, it has been a bit rough on the nerves - lots of disbelief, tears and well you know the rest.  I try to keep my mind busy, but it somehow reverts - somedays I could do without all the mulling over information.