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MichPf
20 days agoMember
Hard lump in breast after second surgery
I recently had to have a second surgery after my initial lumpectomy (wide excision with a Perforator flap, removal of DCIS and malignant tumor in left breast) to remove a margin of tumor left behind. After the first surgery, everything was healing and going well. The second surgery however has not gone as smooth. My breast has been very heavy, red and swollen and I ended up in emergency, an ultrasound was performed and 2 pockets of fluid have formed under the skin. I have had both of these drained this week, but I still feel that there is a hard lump and some pressure pushing around the area. It has now been 2 days since the fluid was drained.
Has anyone had this happen to them? Does it take time for the pressure to go away? Is this all part of the healing process? Thanks :-)
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6 Replies
- GorgySMember
After my lumpectomy and re‑excision in 2023, I developed a seroma in my breast. It felt heavy and lumpy. I reported everything to my medical team, but my breast surgeon was not concerned about the seroma. It took a full year to dry out and heal. Once, I was on antibiotics and it healed faster.
It is important to report any changes to your doctor whenever you notice something or feel worried.
Sign in to react to this post - MeurigMember
Hi there, I too have hard lumps at either end of my mastectomy scar.( July 13th ) Initially I was quite averse to the appearance, but as time passes I think I may have " researched the result", it being necrosed fatty tissue, by my reading.
My triple cleavage has a " golf tee" lump which has got a little smaller. The underarm/ under missing boob area has a fairly hard handful of tissue where the 2 drains exited. This can be " enhanced" by intermittent swelling, which I assume is lymphedema. I do self help massage and realise that 3 months on from relatively major surgery, I might have my " geography" for some time, maybe always. Surgery is not recommended as it can cause larger fat necrosis and scarring.
My unique " physical features" can be aggravated by Boody bras that really aren't future for purpose, but great for hot days. My Amoena prosthesis and bra, fits perfectly, despite bumpy foundation, unfortunately not looking forward to wear on warm days. 31C yesterday!! Add the hormone blocker Tsunami sweats, lIfe is changeable!!
ETA I had a seroma after first surgery( lumpectoy) which went with the revision. These firmer bits are different. Surgeon has seen and was not concerned. I can ask at Oncology appointment next month, but I reckon I've worked out what it/ they are. Dog ears with firmer bases.
Sign in to react to this post - arpieMember
Sorry to see you joining us here MichPf and that you've had to go thru 2 procedures and the seroma/fluid buildup xx. Was there also infection in the breast that needed Antibiotics?
Have you raised this paraticular issue with your surgeon yet? Do you have access to a Breast Care Nurse? You could put it past them too, as it is a medical matter! It 'could be' a lot of things - but it really needs to be assessed by your team , in person (with Ultrasound, and/or other scans)
It Could just be the fluid building up again - or even a lymph node reacting to the possible infection (they are the first lines of defence and often swell with infections!). Have you checked your neck glands? They can also swell with infections, as they try to fight it too.
If you can't see your surgeon - make an appt with your GP asap & get checked out.
Take care & all the best xxSign in to react to this post- MichPfMember
Hi arpie, thank you for your reply :-)
There was a small infection in the breast, and I have been on antibiotics since last Thursday. I am seeing my surgeon next week and have had ultrasounds and seen the GP also. Thanks also for the information on the Lymph nodes, I have checked them and they seem to be ok. How do I get in contact with a Breast Care Nurse?
Thanks again for the reply, really appreciate the response :-)
Sign in to react to this post- GorgySMember
here is the link to find a nurse in your area.
Find a McGrath Cancer Care Nurse | McGrath Foundation
They are fantastic. You can call them anytime you are worried and they will advise you what to do.
Sorry Arpie, you already responded. I did not see it.
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