Hi @"Kez.Za" I had lumpectomy about a year ago followed by radiation. Occasionally, like today. I get a dull ache in my ribs - enough to bring out the heat pack or cream, to alleviate it. I have actually wondered if it is more from the radiation as well as recovering nerves.. Both long and short term side affects are after both treatments so I sit in your space of "wondering". I will ask my surgeon when I see them in a couple of weeks. Hard to know what is what sometimes.. the joys of putting the jigsaw puzzle together without the overall picture to guide.. Take Care.