Forum Discussion
Extent of numbness following double mastectomy
Hi! I’ve recently been diagnosed with early stage breast cancer and require a double mastectomy. I’ve been trying to come to terms with the need for this treatment. I’m wondering if some of the lovely survivors out there would be able to tell me how it feels post mastectomy? How much of your chest is numb permanently? Does PMPS become mild long term?
10 Replies
Hi, how did you go? I'm about to go for a double too.
Hello. I had a double mastectomy 3 months ago with some lymph nodes removed both sides. I did not do nipple sparing as I wanted the lowest risk of reoccurrence. My chest is totally numb- I can't really feel anything. Whilst this doesn't worry me too much, it has impacted intimacy.
Good luck on your journey
Hi Winter I am currently 3 months post DMX and DIEP. I had skin and nipple sparing mastectomy. I have zero sensation below my nipples and surprisingly my boobs above the nipple have sensation. The sensation has definitely improved over the past few weeks in my nipples as in they were 0/10 after surgery and now maybe 2/10, in other words numb but I sense something now.
It takes a long time for nerves to grow back so who knows, hopefully in a few years I might get some sensation back!
I wish you the best on your journey, it's a lot to take in but you got this. Happy to answer more q's if you have any.
Hi Winter,
I had a double mastectomy direct to implant (skin and nipple sparing) 3 months ago. I’m surprised how much sensation i still have. I only have numbness under my armpit where they took lymph nodes, which doesn’t really bother me or impact functioning (except I can’t feel putting deodorant on!). No sensation in my nipples though, which was the saddest part for me.
all the best x
Hi Winter , I'm so sorry to hear about your recent diagnosis, but glad to see you reaching out for support here in our wonderful community. You might also like to join the private community groups Flat Chat - no breast reconstruction and/or Choosing breast reconstruction and post your questions there. These groups also include photos of real people's reconstructed breasts/flat chest after mastectomy if you feel that would be helpful.
Thanks! I’ll do that!
Types of breast cancer https://share.google/W7H9KllNoBPG2WTyT
Hi! It's certainly hard yards when dealing with Breast Cancer and treatment.
The link below is from the BCNA website. There's a wealth of information on all aspects of Breast Cancer.
You have mentioned your concerns about numbness and post mastectomy pain syndrome.
Everyone reacts differently. There's no right or wrong!
You haven't mentioned if you are having reconstruction or staying flat, if your cancer is Hormone Receptor positive or one of the other types.
There's a lot to take in.
Surgery options for breast cancer https://share.google/EJ95Sc1Mj2FwfpqG4
Thanks so much!
