Forum Discussion

Smileyfrog's avatar
Smileyfrog
Member
8 years ago

Post surgery fluid.

I'm almost 3 weeks post surgery. Right breast mastectomy and 2 lymph nodes were taken for testing. I saw my surgeon on Friday, he removed dressing. I'm still quite bruised and swollen. The fluid seems to be moving up my chest a little. Not in pain, just a discomfort. Surgeon said the fluid will aid the healing. He is also reluctant to drain it at the risk of infection. 
I know we all heal at different rates but wondering if there is anything I can do to move it along for example Hot/cold packs? 
I also have to do radiation, so I'm worried my surgery site won't be healed in time. 

2 Replies

  • fairydust's avatar
    fairydust
    Member
    8 years ago
    When you have radiation the team there will be very diligent. If there is a problem then radiation will be delayed but not postponed. I think your body will heal in its on  time. There is not that much you can do.
     I had severe cellulitis in the breast three weeks post surgery. I also had to have radiation. My treatment was delayed until I healed and everything was fine. 

  • Afraser's avatar
    Afraser
    Member
    8 years ago
    The fluid will aid the healing and unless it is really significant in volume, your surgeon will prefer to leave it to disperse naturally. But if it becomes a lot ( ie you can actually hear it slosh around) or the discomfort increases too much, you may want to see if massage will help. A good lymphoedema therapist is best as it needs light, directional massage. Good luck.