3 weeks after lumpectomy- swollen still?

Hey @Tweezer, Ive had 2 major lumpectomies in 5yrs and I have to agree unfortunately, it takes a very long time to heal. The shooting pains are the nerves and this goes on for quite some months, which I know is hard and so frustrating! The bruising/swelling will subside however with no problems. My last years one I also had lymph nodes out too and Id say 18 months on I still have a numbness in my armpit, its just weird but  doesn't hinder anything!  So it is very normal everything you are describing! Gosh, time I guess is the only thing that helps! Hugs Melinda xo

Hi Tweezer, a lot of what you are describing is unfortunately "normal" after lumpectomy. I had lumpectomy and oncoplastic repair - 5cm tissue removed, remaining breast "deconstructed", twisted around to cover the defect, then put back together again. When you think of all that it's no wonder it takes weeks to recover. My swelling & bruising took 7 weeks to get back to "normal" (just in time for chemo). It doesn't help that the lymph nodes were designed to drain tissue fluid away and now they are gone. Breast swelling returned with chemo and rads, but took weeks to come down each time. The shooting pains are "normal", a lot of us get them, they do ease with time. I found wearing the post-op bra gave me firm support and really helped. Continued to wear it for 6 months after surgery. Sensation around the nipple returned around 12months, not the same feeling as before, but still there. Keep up the massaging with bio oil, it helps relieve the swelling and helps to fade the scar. My 20cm scar can hardly be seen 18mths after surgery. If you have any signs of redness, heat or discharge see your doc straight away. Hope you get some relief and good luck with your operation on Thursday, hope all goes well xx

Hi @Tweezer have you had a chance to speak to your medical team about your concerns?