fluid after bilateral mastectomy how long?

My name is Mary Lou;I had a left dcis in 2001 for which I under went Surgery  times 2, and radiation. In 2005 I was diagnosed with uterine ca,after a bleeding eposide. That also called for total hysterectomy, and radiation. I was then asked by a Oncologist to take a heridity test.I was not counseled prior or after. I was told to have a bilateral prophylactic mastectomy, and removal of my ovaries which were gone. On March 20th I underwent the surgery at HUP in Philadelphia.My question is How long do you allow for swelling to cease.I have a pocket of fluid where my L breast was,and where the drains were. Am I giving this enough time? It's not quite 3 weeks. Please advise me. thank you Mary Lou

[Cleveland Clinic]

Dear Mary Lou, The swelling after mastectomy varies in terms of length of time when it would decrease.  3 weeks is not an unusually long time for some degree of swelling after surgery.  However over the internet without knowing your whole situation and ability to ask questions about the degree of swelling, what the incision site looks like etc.  it is difficult to reassure you completely.  It is best to bring your concerns to the attention of your surgeon to be sure that you are progressing as expected for your individual situation.