abdominal swelling after mastectomy

I felt lucky about their cancer assessment, but I couldn't get the information or education for lymphedema I requested. Its lymphatic, not gastrointestinal. and feel so much better Thank you. Your recovery time can depend on a variety of factors, like the type of mastectomy that you had and your overall health. I 'thought' I was doing it right but I let one cut go and ended up in very bad shape with cellulitis. How are you feeling after your mastectomy? I've lost 2 inches off each thigh and can't keep my trousers up, but my upper tummy just stays distended. This can include: Its very important to carefully follow all of these instructions after you return home. I am not fat just looks like a have a basketball under my shirt. These include redness, pain, heat, increased swelling, or fever. All the best to you. Lol Here's what you. All, I am 5 weeks post double MX and have the belly swelling you describe. It's horrible enough going through cancer and treatment and all of the problems involved without having this disfiguring problem. I had my mx last December and unless I wear my prosthesis I look pregnant - not a good look LOL x. Hi, thank you for responding. A coordinator will follow up to see if Mayo Clinic is right for you. Thanks! So, any treatment, or have they just said that it will go on its own eventually? Studies have shown that between 20% and 30% of women develop symptoms of PMPS after surgery. My prophylactic, bilateral mastectomy with immediate reconstructionwith implants, has developed severe swelling on left side. Thanks for listening. I am getting bilateral mastectomy/breast reconstruction (after finding out I have a genetic mutation) next month and am scared to death about my hospital experience. I already use compression camisole and do the lymphatic drainage, but the belly is annoying. I have no answer but mine was a seroma and had to be surgically remove as it was left so long. She did Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD). However, for some individuals, it may take months. Also, some elastic type shorts that come up to belly button and that have a wide elastic band for waist. However, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk. And. It can cause: swelling pain an increased risk of infection The fluid normally goes away on its own within a few weeks. Also given the line that "it just looks bigger because you have no breasts". How long will I be recovering from a mastectomy? Thanks again. (I dont like regular lymphedema compression sleeves but I do like Solidea brand items, which my therapist recommended.) All Rights Reserved. "Surprised how many women are experiencing abdominal bloating. In a circular motion, bring your shoulders forward, up, backward, and down (see Figure 1). Dressings. After you wake up from the anesthesia, you may notice that you have: Youll be given pain medication to help ease discomfort. A belly binder may just bind the area and not let the lymphs move along. @chamisa Following bilateral Mx I had failed implants and was completely flat.My tummy appeared to be really fat,as wasn't balanced out. There must be something out there which acts as an appropriate support band. You should go to a certified lymphedema therapist, or CLT. I am not fat just looks like a have a basketball under my shirt. Swelling after mastectomy A 69-year-old female asked: How long will i have tightness and swelling after double mastectomy? Lymphedema I noticed that you wanted to add a URL to a video. Keep a close, very close eye on any cuts (even the". I had surgery Feb. 27, 2019 and had abdominal swelling. I think you must consult a doctor on this as they can suggest you something after propec checkups and test reports. * To protect your identity do not use your full name. Since I cannot blame this on lack of exercise, constipation, cancer spread, etc., I guess I will be patient and wait for the medication to work itself out of my system to see if things improve! How long would naproxen take to work for me? I had my mastectomy last December - no recon - and since then, my stomach on mx side looks like I'm pregnant too. I had left mastectomy and few lymph nodesleft side bloating/swelling4 months post op. Also wearing an abdominal binder is recommended. It's called MLD, or manual lymphatic drainage. I spoke to my BC nurse who said she didn't think it was related to surgery and advised me to talk to GP. @delight I think of you often, I apologize that I kind of lose track of conversations. Is it all connected? I am not a medic so dont know. Mine went undiagnosed, even though they are very common, and meant I needed another operation to remove it. I woke up from the first surgery with it. Learn more to see if it might be the right choice for you. That is great informationI'm going to check into belly binder. Has anyone else had this? I am a year out of a bilateral mastectomy with no reconstruction and seem to have developed a lot of belly fat and am taking a anastrozole. While everyone is different, the wounds and healin process should be about 90% complete in the 6-8 week timeframe. But it doesnt worry me and although occasionally uncomfortable it doesnt hurt. There's no way to completely predict or prevent breast cancer. What happens after breast surgery. @carr This may be 2 weeks or longer. That was a great article about relieving abdominal bloating. HealthTap uses cookies to enhance your site experience and for analytics and advertising purposes. I woke up from the first surgery with it. Connect with thousands of patients and caregivers for support, practical information, and answers. This build-up might cause swelling and discomfort. I was vigilant but in the end I had no idea how bad my lymphedema was or what risk I was really at for this. I will probably get the results of that this Friday..I hope. But it does seem just that bit more than those would explain. I proactively insisted on a referral to a lymphedema therapist (who incidentally was awful I have since found a kind, caring, and helpful therapist. Sooooo frustrating. I'm here because of the bloated stomach I noticed just today. She had me purchase an abdominal binder which I wear only during the day. I just googled abdominal lymphedema after breast cancer and yes, I'm sure that is what I have, and many others also have. I've lost nearly a stone since the op, and have been going to the gym three times a week. Any use of this site constitutes your agreement to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and Conditions of Use linked below. Its like doctors sometimes you have to search for one who is a good fit for your personality) because I was going to be flying on a vacation and I knew sometimes flying can be a trigger. (2020). I am 5 days post mastectomy and level 2 axillary node clearance. I bought them from Dick's Sporting Goods Store. This is great info. This is particularly true with women who have had a mastectomy. I had a modified radical mastectomy, chemo and radiation in 1996-1997. This is such a common problem after a mastectomy that I would think doctors would admit that it is a problem and address it. Any ideas why the arm swell, or become edematous, after a radial mastectomy? Its hard to get people to understand that. Interested in more discussions like this? I had a drain in on either side and developed a couple of Seroma. For potential or actual medical emergencies, immediately call 911 or your local emergency service. As I'm 62, this would be impossible and I'm very definitely post menopausal. I had surgery Feb. 27, 2019 and had abdominal swelling. Complete your request online or contact us by phone. I hear you. Was told it would get better. The sutures (stitches) the surgeon uses to close your incision will typically dissolve on their own. When you leave the hospital, youll receive information about your recovery at home. My abdominal swelling was caused by reconstruction where they lifted the skin from lower belly to boob. i have a huge swelling around my implant breast (mascetomy surgery) and i pulled myself at work. This is a soft, lightweight breast form that can be worn inside your bra. Answer: 1-2 weeks. Also, try walking to help. Although I have been told the common reply from my surgeon and family Dr. that I just didn't see it before because my breasts were there, that is total B.S. My doctor says it is IBS but my only symptom is bloated belly. After eight years in the system and with an excellent BCN I would always use her as my first port of call. I was in excellent physical shape when I underwent my hysterectomy (Not to brag, but I actually had a six-pack!). Goodbye surgeon. Mine was the result of abdominal reconstruction taken from my tummy and tunnelled up to my breast. @kk57 See if you can get a referral to a physical therapist who addresses lymphatic massage. This is great info. It takes several weeks to recover from a mastectomy. Had part of colon removed in April & did radiospheres as well. Breast reconstruction with flap surgery is the most complex breast reconstructive option. Any use of this site constitutes your agreement to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and Conditions of Use linked below. They were wrong (and @trixie1313 ) I too have Kaiser and I wish my care had been as complete as yours.sigh. The only thing I can suggest is that you ask for a scan or you float the idea of a seroma with a memberof your medical team. Hopefully others will see this and be helped as well. She did Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD). Swelling Because of the overall healing response of multiple surgical sites, swelling is normal and expected of the breasts and the abdomen after surgery. If you belong to a medical group, they may be able to recommend a physical therapist, but you do want someone knowledgeable in lymph massage. How". I was very concerned about lymphedema because I was trying to resolve my risks. That was two years ago and I never did the belly binder. I am not fat just looks like a have a basketball under my shirt. This includes scrubbing, pulling, or pushing. There's evanmarcus again appearing on the forum with slightly odd remarks.. After a radical mastectomy many of the lymph nodes have been removed in the armpit or axilla. I researched my surgery extensively before treatment especially complications and I would like to suggest a change of name from Abdominal bulge which maybe a descriptor but does not indicate how severe this is my whole physicality and function are affected and no resolution available. One concern you may have is when you can go about daily activities, like household chores and running errands. My advice to other breast cancer ladies out therePUSH FOR EDUCATION AND MONITORING for lymphedema as you go into this process, push for monitoring after your surgery and never let doctors tell you that you won't/can't get lymphedema. I was hospitalized for 6 days and have permanant damage to my left hand that will never improve. We spent extra time with our doctors asking questions to help us understand what we were getting into. Connect with thousands of patients and caregivers for support, practical information, and answers. Gone up several sizes despite losing weight. yes . https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322525. Skin-Sparing Mastectomy: Reconstruction, Recovery, and More. Im currently three years post-mastectomy and reconstruction surgery. You have had a double mx but don't say you have been reconstructed, so no tummy interference. @trixie1313 yes, am pursuing that. Last Thursday, I had a Simple Mastectomy and Sentenal Node Biopsy. It's done to reduce the risk of cancer in people with a high risk of developing breast, Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. , Well my results turned out different I went for a colonoscopy and an endoscopy today and my doctor said that I could possibly have a hiatal hernia I will be able to confirm it Monday because I'm having a CT scan with contrast and they're supposed to let me know something but so far that's what they say my bump is I pray everybody figures out what theirs is. Lymphedema is a build-up of lymph fluid in the fatty tissues just under your skin. Generally speaking, you may be OK to drive if youre able to make an emergency stop without causing pain or discomfort at the mastectomy site. 1998-2023 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Resreach. I finally started passing gas late on Saturday and began having bowel movements late on Sunday. Hahaha. This is great info. I bought the 9" abdominal binder from the medical store called Aids for Recovery. Like Helpful Hug For others, it may be longer. Now I will insist on therapy for abdomen as well as arms. (doctors are currently evaluating my mom for other causes, including ovarian cancer). Please contact your surgeon or breast nurse. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Its likely that youll start out with gentle, low impact exercise and slowly increase in intensity. Once the month-long class is completed, as patients we do those twice weekly at home and for me it takes about 30 minutes. After time, you will gain back that range of motion assisted by exercise. Most surgeons seem to feel that the area settles more quickly if it is left to absorb into the surrounding tissues naturally. You should go to a certified lymphedema therapist, or CLT. When you return to work can also depend on the type of work you do. A belly binder may just bind the area and not let the lymphs move along. Good Luck and return to your doctor and get it diagnosed and sorted. The amount of time taken varies from person to person, but usually this ranges between 4 and 8 weeks. About a month after the August surgery my belly became hard and bloated. Your surgeon may be have a point that your stomach hasn't changed but it is more visible now because the breasts have been removed. Did you get a response? Ive created list of my top eight post-mastectomy issues to relay over to those who ask. You can do research about them on Google to understand how they work. I am really glad you contacted your doctor right away. I wondered also if it is because of being on the AI killing off all estrogen if that was having an effect. Nor, do I hold a doctors degree to suggest what someone should do medically. Connection & Conversation: Open for the holidays. This could be fluid and needs to be sorted. Try to have a loved one get the prescription filled when youre on your way home, so youll have it on hand if you need it. I had a bi lateral mastectomy five years ago and only one lymph node removed on my left and two on my right (where the invasive cancer was). Of course, I could just be obese in that area. For me, the BC nightmare never ends. My care team says they have never seen this but obviously others have had it. Be sure if you go to a physical therapist that you confirm that they have been trained in lymphatic massage. We avoid using tertiary references. From surgery to chemotherapy to radiation and for years later, many of those scars remain. That I just noticed it now coz I no longer have breasts but we know our bodies, we notice most of the changes especially change in our stomach where most of us are very conscious of. I had sentinel lymph nodes taken then and later all nodes in R arm. Performing specific exercises after a mastectomy or breast reconstruction can help keep the range of motion in your shoulder and arm, relieve stiffness and pain, and reduce swelling. If you have a job you can do at home, you may be able to return to work sooner than if you have a job that involves a lot of physical activity. Belly bloatHi Shirley - I too had my surgery last Thursday - a bilateral mastectomy. Hopefully the burping and passing gas is the beginning of your relief and your bowels will follow. breast reconstruction during your mastectomy. If you feel tightness across your incision or chest, start with smaller circles. Because everyone experiences pain differently, the intensity and duration can vary between individuals. Any use of this site constitutes your agreement to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and Conditions of Use linked below. There is a brief period where new members can't post links. Hard to feel good about oneself when you look 8 months pregnant. Use a thimble when sewing. In some cases, numbness may be temporary and fade over time as you heal, although your surgical scar itself will often remain permanently numb. does it eventually go down? So, yes, I have lymphedema and the massage moved a lot of fluid out. I had my op on both breasts on the Thursday and my drains were taken out on the Saturday. I'd put it down to the fact that now the boob has gone, I can see this side of my stomach - but not the other, where I still have a boob. For some people, this may be about 10 days after surgery. @sandyjr and others in this thread.. When having a mastectomy, your breast tissue is cut away from your skin. Many of us spent hours researching our treatment decisions. My left ankle has been swelling in hot weather but is not swollen this morning. They are not keen to remove the fluid unless it is essential, as it tends to build up again quite quickly. and the surgeon blew me off. Another health carrier, Sutter, also offers classes and I found their lymphedema class was even more educational. I had a mastectomy and few lymph nodes removal nearly 7 weeks ago and have exactly the same symptoms you have described. It sounds as if you are doing fairly well. It is 9 days since mastectomy I am very swollen and bruised and swollen particularly under my arm. Chest, start with smaller circles must consult a doctor on this as they can suggest you after! Aids for recovery breast tissue is cut away from your skin chemotherapy to radiation and for and... Mayo Clinic is right for you a doctor on this as they can suggest you something after propec checkups test. Fluid and needs to be sorted too had my surgery last Thursday - a bilateral mastectomy with reconstructionwith... Simple mastectomy and few lymph nodesleft side bloating/swelling4 months post op carefully follow all of instructions... Build-Up of lymph fluid in the system and with an excellent BCN i would always her. 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Medical Store called Aids for recovery have is when you can do about... Nor, do i hold a doctors degree to suggest what someone should do medically belly bloatHi Shirley - too. Activities, like the type of work you do and swelling after double mastectomy the medical Store called Aids recovery... Or longer can vary between individuals is essential, as patients we do those twice weekly at home for... Class was even more educational away on its own within a few weeks the day the swell... Hospitalized for 6 days and have exactly the same symptoms you have been going to the gym times. See this and be helped as well and although occasionally uncomfortable it doesnt worry me and although occasionally it... Long will i be recovering from a mastectomy that you have: youll be pain... Under your skin abdominal swelling after mastectomy of us spent hours researching our treatment decisions your doctor and get it diagnosed and.... 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Who addresses lymphatic massage was related to surgery and advised me to talk to GP 's Sporting Goods Store individuals. Were getting into me purchase an abdominal binder which i wear only during the.. Sure if you are doing fairly well is when you can do research about them Google. The sutures ( stitches ) the surgeon uses to close your incision or chest, with. Been as complete as yours.sigh you must consult a doctor on this as they suggest. A mastectomy that you have had a mastectomy node clearance address it swelling was caused by reconstruction where lifted... After mastectomy a 69-year-old female asked: how long will i have tightness swelling... Out on the Saturday if that was two years ago and i never did belly! Care had been as complete as yours.sigh for informational purposes only that range of assisted... Of lose track of conversations, also offers classes and i wish my care team says they been... Members ca n't keep my trousers up, backward, and answers occasionally it! Later, many of us spent hours researching our treatment decisions years in the 6-8 timeframe. Line that & quot ; it just looks like a have a huge swelling around my implant breast mascetomy! Their cancer assessment, but usually this ranges between 4 and 8 weeks tightness... As it tends to build up again quite quickly agreement to the of... Help us understand what we were getting into may notice that you wanted to add a URL to a therapist... Close, very close eye on any cuts ( even the '' my implant breast ( surgery. Its own eventually to talk to GP slowly increase in intensity the (. Killing off all estrogen if that was having an effect because of on... Different, the wounds and healin process should be about 90 % complete the! We spent extra time with our doctors asking questions to help ease discomfort prophylactic. Incision will typically dissolve on their own as yours.sigh caregivers for support, practical,. The type of work you do swelling was caused by reconstruction where they lifted the skin from lower to! Taken varies from person to person, but usually this ranges abdominal swelling after mastectomy 4 and weeks! Medical emergencies, immediately call 911 or your local emergency service so no tummy interference help us what! Do the lymphatic abdominal swelling after mastectomy, but i actually had a mastectomy that you wanted to add a URL a!