Did this swelling resolve for anyone? As a retired RN the abdominal bloating made no sense at all. Very long story short I developed lymphedema out of the gate following surgery in my left arm. and the surgeon blew me off. Please allow me to post it for you. Yes, it could be a possible seroma or hematoma. I am just wondering what was the outcome for you? In addition to general pain or discomfort, it's possible to feel:. Go back to your doctor and ask for a scan that will show up fluid. I am so relieved that I have found this group and that I am not alone with this problem! When you leave the hospital, youll receive information about your recovery at home. It stimulates the main lymph drainage areas, in you tummy, back and groin. There's evanmarcus again appearing on the forum with slightly odd remarks.. Your surgeon will schedule a follow-up appointment about 7 to 10 days after your mastectomy. So, for now, Im sticking with my detox tea, exercise and yoga to try to get my body back in balance. Figure 1. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322525 After you wake up from the anesthesia, you may notice that you have: Youll be given pain medication to help ease discomfort. Interested in more discussions like this? Contact your doctor promptly if you have: Looking for help in planning your mastectomy recovery? I've read that some antibiotics can kill the natural bacteria that the body needs to help process food as it passes through the system. 1998-2023 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Resreach. Connect with thousands of patients and caregivers for support and answers. I woud look at your lymph system as the areas you have highlighted sound like the main lymph drainage areas. and feel so much better Thank you. Right after surgery, youre limited in your range of motion from the inflammation and tissue healing in your body. I was stage 1", "Hello @almostoutofthewoods and welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect. You may not like the look of your implants or the way your chest looks if you chose not to do reconstruction. I am large busted and the gravity pulls it down. Recovery from a mastectomy typically takes several weeks. Be careful not to touch or remove the steri-strips or sutures. Side Effects (Stomach distended and hard and will Not go away): I just had a bilateral mastectomy on the 29th of April 2020 and my drain stayed in for about 4 weeks but after I was able to move around I noticed that my stomach was like really hard and round exceptionally round like a beer gut and I was thinking it was because I didn't have breast anymore but it's not that, it is still that way now and I supposedly been able to go back to work 6th June and it has not left and I have lost the weight not a lot but I have lost the weight but that stomach is still hard and still be big like I'm pregnant and it's very upsetting and I've asked about it at my doctor and nobody is able to tell me so I'm having a colonoscopy in a few weeks and I asked for an endoscopy to see if it's something in there if someone finds out any information please let me know cuz I will tell you the results of my endoscopy if they find anything I'm going to ask the gastroenterologist about it, good luck ladies is all I can say and I didn't have the reconstructive surgery because I had breast cancer before and I had radiation and they told me that on that particular side I was not going to be eligible for it because my skin would not stretch anymore, but if anybody knows anything please put it on here so I can read it thanks and I'm praying for us all to figure out how we can Live with this new shape of our body that I don't think you're not supposed to have, Thanks and you are absolutely right! My belly swells and goes down. I bought them from Dick's Sporting Goods Store. Now it does! Go to the Breast Cancer Support Group. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. I started to post the video after reading your comment, impulsive? Video chat with a U.S. board-certified doctor 24/7 in less than one minute for common issues such as: colds and coughs, stomach symptoms, bladder infections, rashes, and more. Interested in more discussions like this? For some people, this may be about 10 days after surgery. I have very skinny legs and arms, but this huge stomach bulging out!!! It's very common, especially with those who have had a double mastectomy. Exercise is a major key to recovery, in my opinion, and for me that has brought many unexpected benefits. Interested in more discussions like this? Dr. William explains how it happens and the difference between swelling and seroma with an actual patient case. If anyone has a rave review of someone who does MLD (manual lymphatic drainage) in Minneapolis, please share. My bowel habits have returned to normal, but I also have torso bloat/swelling that is quite uncomfortable. I try to get walking in and gym but doesnt seem to help. My doctor says it is IBS but my only symptom is bloated belly. Has anyone else had this? This was at a cancer center that was connected to a hospital that had a trauma center! I look like a freak. But I am pretty careful about gas as it certainly can add pain to the equation. Its a good idea to take another person with you the first time you drive after surgery. Also given the line that it just looks bigger because you have no breasts. I was discussing my request for lymphedema consideration when I went for blood work etc. Dressings. I may have some in my abdominal area as well but I have been focused on my arm. Another time I got a call from a nurse in my doctors office about adding patient requests blood be drawn from the foot because of breast cancer. The nurse made a comment about good luck with that (my words). I understand they are focused on saving our lives but discounting our side effects is really disheartening. I was given a PT referral for lymphedema evaluation. I can't put the link. This feeling is due to nerve damage that can happen during the surgery. Publication types Case Reports Review MeSH terms Abdominal Wall / innervation Abdominal Wall / physiopathology* Humans I too had 'mild' lymphedema.now I have hand and arm damage and it's not so mild. Complete your request online or contact us by phone. Keep at your PT and massage and other care. (2020). Same response as with the other reply here I saw. Depends: It depends how long after gastrectomy.If the swelling happens a few days later, it can be due to infection or bleeding. When you leave the hospital, youll receive information about your recovery at home. Swelling after mastectomy A 69-year-old female asked: How long will i have tightness and swelling after double mastectomy? This is typically 3 days or less. Get prescriptions or refills through a video chat, if the doctor feels the prescriptions are medically appropriate. I found a certified lymphedema therapist and I will make an appointment. Is it all connected? You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. Keep a close, very close eye on any cuts (even the". Your nurse or doctor can drain the fluid with a needle and syringe if the seroma is painful. Its frustrating that doctors dont take lymphedema more seriously, but I guess theyre just focused on ridding us of the cancer. Keep a close, very close eye on any cuts (even the smallest). Before you leave the hospital, youll be shown various arm and shoulder exercises to do during recovery. Learn how CBCs are used in the treatment of breast cancer. I haven't been horrendously uncomfortable most of the time. I am also on the Wheat Belly diet, which is similar to Ketono wheat or grains, no sugar, good fats and vegetables, etc. Even after all that, we still dont know everything or we just simply forgot in amongst all that information being thrown our direction. I've tried every logical thing I can think of and nothing helps. During this time, theyll evaluate your progress, discuss any additional treatments (if needed), and address any concerns you may have. An abdominal CT was normal. Like Helpful Hug 2 Reactions REPLY Any ideas? Then I went back to the last page and noticed that @colleenyoung beat me to it. GP has suggested that it is related to my surgery ( I wasn't like this prior) and to get the area scanned. Its common to have pain or discomfort after a mastectomy. Use a thimble when sewing. It's most common after operations that remove tissue in the upper outside portion of the breast or the underarm area. 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. Please keep in touch and let us know how you get on. This includes scrubbing, pulling, or pushing. They suggest using an abdominal binder and more importantly going to a physical therapist trained in lymphatic massage. I had stage 1, no lymph nodes removed. @delight I think of you often, I apologize that I kind of lose track of conversations. I already use compression camisole and do the lymphatic drainage, but the belly is annoying. I bought the 9" abdominal binder from the medical store called Aids for Recovery. Keep in mind that the exact timelines can vary based on the type of procedure you have, as well as your overall health. I already use compression camisole and do the lymphatic drainage, but the belly is annoying. I think it's a build up of fluid, like a lymphedema problem. So my bulge has added about 20cm to my circumference which is really pronounced when moving from laying to sitting - it looks like one side is flat and the other raises up like its own separate pregnancy! They suggest using an abdominal binder and more importantly going to a physical therapist trained in lymphatic massage. Most have been trained on the job by a mentor some actually have had themselves a mastectomy or lumpectomy for even better first hand advise the m How long will i have tightness and swelling after double mastectomy? Possible problems after mastectomy. Thank you Jolamine, very helpful, at least I know what to look out for. I had a mastectomy and few lymph nodes removal nearly 7 weeks ago and have exactly the same symptoms you have described. Thank you! Goodbye surgeon. Not standard mastectomy. researchgate.net/publication/343589163_Pain_Management_in_Breast_Surgery_Recommendations_of_a_Multidisciplinary_Expert_Panel-The_American_Society_of_Breast_Surgeons, nationalbreastcancer.org/blog/checklist-for-recovery-after-mastectomy/, cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/treatment/surgery-for-breast-cancer/mastectomy.html, breastcancer.org/treatment/surgery/mastectomy/expectations, uhb.nhs.uk/Downloads/pdf/PiMastectomy.pdf, cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/breast-cancer/treatment/surgery/after-surgery/problems-after-mastectomy, cancer.org/treatment/treatments-and-side-effects/physical-side-effects/pain/post-mastectomy-pain-syndrome.html, link.springer.com/article/10.1245%2Fs10434-018-6644-x, cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/breast-cancer/treatment/surgery/after-surgery/what-happens-after-surgery. All Rights Reserved. Connect with thousands of patients and caregivers for support and answers. However, some people may have a longer recovery period. Are these options things you've already tried or are doing? I wear the abdominal binder during the day at work and the shorts if I'm relaxing around the house etc.. By using our website, you consent to our use of cookies. I am now almost 72, retired, and I don't wear a bra with forms unless I dress up, so my body resembles a man with a big beer belly. I have mild lymphedema in one arm after a bilateral mastectomy where seventeen lymph nodes were removed. Its important to stick to your recovery plan. I will probably get the results of that this Friday..I hope. PS would physiotherapy help re strengthening other muscles, what to do/not to do etc? Pain relief within an hour. It takes time to completely recover from a mastectomy. If youre experiencing prolonged pain after the procedure, discuss your treatment options with a doctor. But it doesnt worry me and although occasionally uncomfortable it doesnt hurt. Connect with thousands of patients and caregivers for support and answers. Has the lymphedema subsided? Your surgeon transfers a section of skin, muscle, fat and blood vessels from one part of your body to your chest to create a new breast mound. I hope that your recuperation continues to progress. Me too. Connection & Conversation: Open for the holidays. A belly binder may just bind the area and not let the lymphs move along. Hard to feel good about oneself when you look 8 months pregnant. As a matter of fact, I have found two phlebotomists that will honor this. Lymphadema is a very distressing problem. You will know if you develop a seroma. These same lymph nodes that drain the breast can also b A mastectomy bra is usually fitted by a lady who is a trained specialist and is able to measure each patient and determine their size and options. Yet another thing to add to the list of 'why don't they forewarn you about these things'?? For example, you might not be able to lift your arms above your head for a period of time during your recovery. Frustrating trying to buy clothes that dont make me look pregnant. The hospital and my surgeon said the swelling was not swelling, they said my stomach appeared to me to be swollen because I did not have breasts. At age 65, I am 11 days post op after a simple left breast mastectomy. I still look pregnant on the right side of my stomach, and I had my tram flap op 6 1/2 months ago. Pleased if that helped spark further ideas. I noticed I have a bloated stomach when I washed myself up. She did Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD). Wishing you the very best. That was two years ago and I never did the belly binder. YES, we discussed loss of feeling and sensation in my breasts and armpits. Answer: 1-2 weeks. I just googled abdominal lymphedema and yes, it is a thing, and yes, that is what I have and I'm sure many others with "Buddha belly" have. If youre scheduled for a lung cancer surgery, you may have a lot of questions about the procedure and the recovery process. I know they cut all of the muscles and nerves and they never recover completely. I also experienced a great deal of swelling. I had a level one clearance with my lumpectomy and, there was an attempt to take a minimal number of lymph nodes from the arm that hadn't had surgery previously along with my mastectomies. I had a mastectomy one year ago and now i am noticing swelling and pain in my arm. It's called MLD, or manual lymphatic drainage. Nguyen list some of the most important ones: Women should get cervical cancer screening starting at age 21 and should discuss breast cancer screening starting at age 40. After the surgery, gravity may cause the fluids . Mine has in ever since chemo so thought it was from that but other folks noticed it after anesthesia. I was hospitalized for 6 days and have permanant damage to my left hand that will never improve. My doctor says it is IBS but my only symptom is bloated belly. They are not keen to remove the fluid unless it is essential, as it tends to build up again quite quickly. I felt lucky about their cancer assessment, but I couldn't get the information or education for lymphedema I requested. I am not a medic so dont know. Pain immediately after your mastectomy will make you feel like you were crushed by a ton of bricks. I can tell this is very bothersome to", "Thanks for the info, but it's definitely not a regular "bloating" or digestion problem. Connect with thousands of patients and caregivers for support, practical information, and answers. Brenin DR, et al. Its hard to get people", "@trixie1313 yes, am pursuing that. When you open up your body, youre leaving yourself exposed. My care team says they have never seen this but obviously others have had it. Well discuss how long recovery takes, what mastectomy pain is like, and when you can typically return to daily activities. The site of your mastectomy will need time to heal before you can comfortably wear a bra again. They just say that because muscle has been removed from my abdomen, the abdominal wall is very thin, so there is not much support. I WAS a 13 year survivor until last month. She probably shouldn't experience any swelling if the skin has been placed down flat by the surgeon. Jusdt a very thin abdominal wall because muscle has been removed. No chemo or radiation. She had me purchase an abdominal binder which I wear only during the day. Many of us spent hours researching our treatment decisions. Repeat this movement 5 times. Regular massage, especially deep tissue, can be harmful. Medical procedures always scare me now. Melatonin and Breast Cancer: Is it Safe and Can it Help? Did you get a response? Theyre important to prevent stiffness and improve range of motion near where you had your mastectomy. Any update? Hello. Every time he had breast augmentation, it can cause some surrounding swelling to the upper abdominal wall for a week or 2 after surgery. I'm not tiny but I've never had such a big upper tummy! If you happened to start the reconstruction process with expanders, or even once you put implants in, infection can still happen. Following bilateral Mx I had failed implants and was completely flat.My tummy appeared to be really fat,as wasn't balanced out. Kaiser also offers their patients an "after breast surgery" training class by the physical therapy department whereupon one does a series of stretching, core, weight training (stretch bands and free weights), and then finishing with stretching exercises. I think you must consult a doctor on this as they can suggest you something after propec checkups and test reports. Your surgeon may prescribe a pain medication to take after you leave the hospital. Skin-Sparing Mastectomy: Reconstruction, Recovery, and More. Most of the people faces problem after surgeries but then you must be really cautious about all these problems. 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. Please note, we cannot prescribe controlled substances, diet pills, antipsychotics, or other abusable medications. That is great informationI'm going to check into belly binder. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It amy require treatment with Dr. Pamela Pappas and another doctor agree. The hospital and my surgeon said the swelling was not swelling, they said my stomach appeared to me to be swollen because I did not have breasts. Lymphedema is a build-up of lymph fluid in the fatty tissues just under your skin. Its also possible that you may be offered physical therapy during your recovery period. I am so thankful you found a therapist who has helped you. today I am 10 weeks out from my DIEP surgery. I have found the vibration on a cycle track is very good. Here's what you. My stomach from pelvis to breast had to be quilted inside to prevent another seroma forming. Any ideas why the arm swell, or become edematous, after a radial mastectomy? Abdominal Swelling under mastectomy scar Hedvig Aug 8, 2013 7:22 AM I had a left breast removed 6 months ago. PMPS is thought to be linked to damage done to the nerves in the armpit and chest during surgery. What were your test results? All Rights Reserved. Did you have your lymphedema evaluation? There is a brief period where new members can't post links. I wondered also if it is because of being on the AI killing off all estrogen if that was having an effect. October 2003 #5. Go to the Breast Cancer Support Group. The hospital and my surgeon said", "Thanks, @amandajro, but agree with @almostoutofthewoods this isnt gastrointestinal bloating which this article addresses. Complete your request online or contact us by phone. Any use of this site constitutes your agreement to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and Conditions of Use linked below. Nette, thank you so much for that - I'll certainly get it checked out. But the causes are not known for sure. 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. Thanks people, and I hope you're all doing ok. 2022 Breast Cancer Now. I was told it was a muscle bulge until I had a CT scan that showed it was a seroma by then it was well established and couldn't be drained so I needed a second operation to remove it. Abdominal swelling may have multiple causes as listed by Bookish. Did you get a response? You May ask why if it is common why it wasnt immediately diagnosed. Most surgeons seem to feel that the area settles more quickly if it is left to absorb into the surrounding tissues naturally. All the best to you. 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. If it's just mild swelling, sometime it is just due to bloated intestines.If the gastrectomy was several weeks or months ago, the considerations include ascites (abdominal fluid), a hernia, versus tumor regrowth.Talk with your surgeon to learn more. My surgeon advised against more ops as he felt It could cause more probs down the line He also said we are just seeing the true complications of TRAM surgery. She had me purchase an abdominal binder which I wear only during the day. The nurses/techs give you bs when you ask for proper treatment.you cant get lymphedema if you only have 1 node removedyou wont get if after 10 yearsyou wont get it if they take blood from your handthey cant take blood pressure in your legit goes on and on. I just spoke to a wonderful woman on the support line ( hey I made a pun!) I was very concerned about lymphedema because I was trying to resolve my risks. Still having regular bowel movements and there is really no pain. Anyone seeing me would assume that I am six months pregnant. I am 49 yrs old and have to wear my husbands clothes because I cannot fit my belly into mine. which swelled occasionally but disapated in a day or 2. now i have had pouch swelling fo? pouch left in armpit. Sigh. Prior to your procedure, reach out to loved ones to ask if they can help you with things like: Put together a bag to bring with you to the hospital. A belly binder may just bind the area and not let the lymphs move along. It was part of the reason I had an ER visit post op. You have had a double mx but don't say you have been reconstructed, so no tummy interference. (2020). what could be wrong and what do i do? , 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. Once the fluid was aspirated, it almost immediately felt a lot better. @almostoutofthewoods There are different lymphedema pads called "swell spots" that are quite helpful. This is such a common problem after a mastectomy that I would think doctors would admit that it is a problem and address it. All Rights Reserved. Hearing the words, You have cancer, creates many emotional scars. For others, it may be longer. Youll generally need to avoid doing household chores and lifting heavy objects for a set period of time. Doing so can help your recovery go as smoothly as possible. Most surgeons seem to feel that the area settles more quickly if it is left to absorb into the surrounding tissues naturally. Complete your request online or contact us by phone. The recovery from mastectomy is different for everyone. The maximal effect i Dr. Susan Rhoads and another doctor agree. Even though seromi are very common after surgery no one diagnosed it until I had the full body scan. This is what I want to know,too. I was always fairly lean until my DMX in 2017. Surprised how many women are experiencing abdominal bloating. The swell spots are sewn in a way for the lymph veins go move the lymphatics along. FYI @almostoutofthewoods. Ive created list of my top eight post-mastectomy issues to relay over to those who ask. My dx is Colon Cancer w/ liver mets - 8 tumors spread throughout liver so resection of liver not an option, nor is transplant. Youll have difficulty finding clothes, especially if you only have one breast. Thank you Carr for the valuable information. But if those emotions last longer than you would desire, seek some help from a professional. My breastcare nurse have also been a great source of help and support. After time, you will gain back that range of motion assisted by exercise. Its hard to get people to understand that. My doctor okayed me to have PT to work on the lymphedema. Copyright 2000-2022 Cancer Survivors Network. I am due to have my seroma surgical removed on Tuesday 22 July. Tell your doctor right away if you have any signs of infection. A CBC can help detect some blood cancers, but it cannot detect breast cancer. 20002023 The Breast Cancer Site and GreaterGood. I had mastectomy and TRAM flat reconstruction on April 6, 2020. Drain was removed on day six, and I have been taking my normal walk each day since day 7 (3-4 miles each day). In a circular motion, bring your shoulders forward, up, backward, and down (see Figure 1). @aiden727 Re: Abdominal swelling after surgery - has anyone else had this? What Causes Stomach Bloating After Breast Augmentation Surgery? The swelling is in the left breast and side, naturally, but also in the groin area, upper and lower abdomen, and across my back by my shoulder blades. It always looks the same, no matter what I do. Im going to email my surgeons with all those questions you dont ask at the time ! About a month after the August surgery my belly became hard and bloated. If anyone has a rave review of someone who does MLD", "Thank you! Dr. Harness comments on the degree of swelling a woman should expect after her double mastectomy. It feels numb. It was frustrating. Mastectomy lymphnodes 15 years ago. How to Reduce Your Risk of Breast Cancer: 10 Lifestyle Recommendations, Symptoms of Late Stage Metastatic Breast Cancer, What to Know and Consider Before Having Prophylactic Mastectomy, a dressing or bandage to cover your incision and keep it clean, a surgical drain to help blood and fluid drain from the surgical site, how to care for your incision, including how to bathe or shower, which exercises to do to promote range of motion in your arm and shoulder and how often to do them, what you may expect as far as pain, numbness, or other sensations, how to recognize signs of complications, like infections or lymphedema, when you can start doing certain activities again, such as household chores, driving, and wearing a bra, experienced acute, severe postmastectomy pain, bleeding from the surgical site thats more than you were told to expect, redness, swelling, or pain around your incision, an area thats red, tender, or feels warm to the touch, unexplained swelling around the surgical site, which could be signs of a, persistent swelling in your arm or hand, which can be a sign of, a notebook for tracking medications or for writing down questions to ask your surgeon during your follow-up appointment, a wedge pillow to help keep you propped up in bed or on the couch. The vast majority of the swelling should really be limited to the breasts and we do not typically require patients to wear an abdominal binder or anything else of the sort for compression . Had part of colon removed in April & did radiospheres as well. I have read some cases where bilateral mastectomy gets the lymphatic system out of balance. I do not have it bad like some do. From surgery to chemotherapy to radiation and for years later, many of those scars remain. Do you think I would benefit from a chest and abdominal binder? Connect with thousands of patients and caregivers for support, practical information, and answers. I finally started passing gas late on Saturday and began having bowel movements late on Sunday. (2020). I started physical therapy 2 weeks ago and the physical therapist could tell right away that it was fluid. In some cases, numbness may be temporary and fade over time as you heal, although your surgical scar itself will often remain permanently numb.
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