Hi. Recently had surgery for DCIS. Results are positive. Follow up appointment with oncologist. Surgeon was fantastic, but was not as supportive as I thought she would be. Has done her bit I guess. Dressings are off and need to keep covered when showering. Looking for advice on best waterproof dressings to use. Pretty tender under the arm. Little bit swollen. Taking panadol and ibuprofen. Waking me up at night. Wearing a bra 24/7. When does that stop?
Though it was 8 years (mostly ductal in left breast) ago I used Opp-site with a telfa pad. I had gotten a small infection at one of the stitches so the keep dry lasted a bit longer along with antibiotics. All up it was no more than 4 weeks. they had to delay my radiation till it all cleared and healed, I also wore a soft T shirt under my surgery bra. My stitched area was under my breast along with a 2cm square of patchwork on the breast. (Breast Conserving surgery). The armpit scar was good just the scars were sensitive hence the T shirt. ( thankfully it was cooler weather.) I got some dressings from outpatient clinic then others I got from chemist. If your not sure speak to a breast care nurse. Due to radiation etc I kept wearing a bra for quite some time, I switched to Ahh bras mostly because I had gotten used to wearing one to bed now its only occasionally.
Thanks for your input. Most helpful. Found those Op site waterproof dressings really good. Had an appointment at the wound clinic yesterday, and they gave me a couple of different ones that weren't as good. They recommended showering without them because both of the wounds have healed. Will try that tonight. Breast care nurse has been fantastic!!!
Thanks for your advice. Will take it on board.
Hi Barbie54,
Are you taking Tamoxifen after surgery?
Hi Barbie54 - sorry to hear of your struggles post surgery. Perhaps reach out to your breast care nurse as well, they are very knowledgeable with post surgery care.
Also our information may help https://www.bcna.org.au/resources/surgery-and-breast-reconstruction/lumpectomy-breast-conserving-surgery/
In the meantime I also wanted to remind you that if you haven't accessed your free post surgery bra My Care Kit - please reach out to BCNA's Helpline 1800 500 258.
Morning Mez
Have had a productive chat with Breast Care Nurse. She's an angel. Have got pain management under control better now. She organised a post surgery bra for me which is so soft and comfy!!! I got a bra locally for post surgery also. It's a bit more structured but still comfy.
Thanks for your reply. This is a great format to reach out to other's who have been through similar things.
Thanks again.
Morning.
Not taking any medication accept for panadol for pain management.
