Lumectomy recovery

[ajean]

I just went through having a core biopsy.  The results were good the lump was benign.  The radiologist still did not like the way it looked because it had really jagged edges and the cells did not look good.  The rediologist recommended a lumpectomy and I had it done 2 weeks later.  From talking to the surgeon it sounded like I'd go in, come home the same day and be back to normal within a couple days.  My job requires standing, a lot of bending, some lifting and constant arm motion.  Needless to say I went back to work on Monday and was in pain.  My lump was on the right side of my breast almost under the arm pit.  I have had swelling, bruising, lots of breast soreness, 2 -3 inches beyond the incision.  The incision itself looks great just a little red.  At times it feels like I have a scrap, a burning feeling.  My nipple is sore too.  There is no discharge from the nipple or incision.  When can I expect to feel nothing, just normal?  It has been over 3 weeks and I feel horrible for still not feeling good. It could have been worse.  It could have been cancer and I am lucky.  Are these syptoms normal?  

[Cleveland Clinic]

Dear ajean:  There can be a lot of variability in recovery from a lumpectomy, depending on the location of the lump (the depth and location of the incision) as well as individual healing.  Despite that this is a “small” surgery, it is a surgery nonetheless.  In general, the recommendation is to take it easy with lifting and other strenuous movement of the affected arm.  Swelling and bruising are not uncommon and may take time to resolve.  It can take a bit of time to feel “normal.”  Scar tissue and other healing takes time.  It may be worth a discussion with your surgeon, though, to be sure he/she is happy with your progress.  He/she may also give you some suggestions for how you may promote healing.  

[japdip]

I suppose you could say what you're experiencing is normal in that you probably overdid things too soon. It's usually recommended that you take it easy for a couple days .. use an ice pack for the first 24-48 hours, wear a tight sports type bra and go easy on the lifting or bending. There could be a little nerve damage which can't be avioded with this type of surgery and that might account for the burning, scrape type feeling. With a very deep incision I think it might take longer than 3 weeks for it to feel normal ... I must say I had more discomfort with the lumpectomy (excisional biopsy actually) than with my mastectomy. Wearing a VERY supportive bra even now might help since you job requires so much activity involving the arm and therefore the breast tissues.   Good Luck