Stay vigilant. All Rights Reserved. I might be a big baby, but I was so upset! She probably shouldn't experience any swelling if the skin has been placed down flat by the surgeon. However, recovery can be longer for some individuals, potentially taking months. If anyone has a rave review of someone who does MLD (manual lymphatic drainage) in Minneapolis, please share. It feels numb. Is it all connected? After a radical mastectomy many of the lymph nodes have been removed in the armpit or axilla. Was told it would get better. Jusdt a very thin abdominal wall because muscle has been removed. However, some breast cancer patients will be shocked to feel brief bouts of sharp pain in their breast months, even years later. Did you get a response? Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. I never had trouble doing that either before all this. 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. When you do this, your care team and loved ones can help provide the support you need during your recovery. Is there anyway to tell if this is a hematoma orsomething other than normal -without going back to the doctor? @sandyjr and others in this thread.. I started to post the video after reading your comment, impulsive? Its hard to get people to understand that. Its lymphatic, not gastrointestinal. With this in mind, try to prep your house and supplies ahead of time. Abdominal swelling post-chemo clier Member Posts: 29 October 2009 edited March 2014 #1 So, I've just finished 6 months Folfox + Avastin, every other week. I had a modified radical mastectomy, chemo and radiation in 1996-1997. I woud look at your lymph system as the areas you have highlighted sound like the main lymph drainage areas. I have no answer but mine was a seroma and had to be surgically remove as it was left so long. thanks for replying , it is a great idea and despite buying highly expensive support pants Ive found a swimming costume helps a lot - seems to even the load all out! I had sentinel lymph nodes taken then and later all nodes in R arm. I bought the 9" abdominal binder from the medical store called Aids for Recovery. Take care, Lola. I've just had a CT scan. Surprised how many women are experiencing abdominal bloating. Bruising and some swelling are common in women after surgery. It's called MLD, or manual lymphatic drainage. In addition to general pain or discomfort, its possible to feel: Chronic pain after a mastectomy may be more common in people who: There are many potential treatments for chronic pain after mastectomy. It's handy to rest things on, I guess! Did you get a response? No evidence of any liquid to drain out. Mine has in ever since chemo so thought it was from that but other folks noticed it after anesthesia. Lots of swelling but few if any, caused by pedicle tram recon. I was in excellent physical shape when I underwent my hysterectomy (Not to brag, but I actually had a six-pack!). I started physical therapy 2 weeks ago and the physical therapist could tell right away that it was fluid. Thanks! Regular massage, especially deep tissue, can be harmful. I am 49 yrs old and have to wear my husbands clothes because I cannot fit my belly into mine. Life is full and good post cancer and treatment. For potential or actual medical emergencies, immediately call 911 or your local emergency service. I haven't been horrendously uncomfortable most of the time. This feeling is due to nerve damage that can happen during the surgery. I also experienced a great deal of swelling. so glad it's not just me!!!! I had stage 1, no lymph nodes removed. It can spread to the abdomen due to the lower breast pocket and gravity. No chemo or radiation. Thank you Jolamine, very helpful, at least I know what to look out for. Dr. Harness comments on the degree of swelling a woman should expect after her double mastectomy. Youll also be given a leaflet that has written and visual descriptions of these exercises. What are the symptoms of complications after mastectomy? I started physical therapy 2 weeks ago and the physical therapist could tell right away that it was fluid. Clearly the link you wanted to post is not spam. You also need to be comfortable wearing a seatbelt. My seroma appeared within 6 weeks of the original operation. It was part of the reason I had an ER visit post op. This feels different like an unusual fluid retention in the belly region. Keep a close, very close eye on any cuts (even the". This can be treated in several ways, including the medications and therapies discussed above. Now it does! I was stage 1 in my left breast, but had the double as a preventative measure, since I never wanted to go through this again. My lymphedema is mild because I avoid triggers, practice MLD, have a Flexitouch pump system to use as needed, know what physical exercises to do to help, know how to short-stretch bandage if necessary, and finally wear a compression sleeve during exercise or exertion. But if those emotions last longer than you would desire, seek some help from a professional. Now I will insist on therapy for abdomen as well as arms. I am glad you are paying attention to your body. We mustnt just accept. I am also really having a hard time losing 15 pounds which I need to do. Connection & Conversation: Open for the holidays. I also wanted to say that it feels like soup one minute and a rugby ball the next ( its also that size!) So is that it? I do have mirrors in my house and my stomach never stuck out before. Was told it would get better. A 2018 observational study estimated that 20 to 30 percent of people who undergo breast surgery experience some type of chronic pain. Chronic pain after mastectomy happens due to nerve damage. I started this thread back in 2013/4 so there have been lots of views and posts since then. You have a foreign object inside your body, which may just want to reject that object. "I had surgery Feb. 27, 2019 and had abdominal swelling. I am on Cefadroxil, which does make me nauseous if I take it on an empty stomach. It can cause: swelling pain an increased risk of infection The fluid normally goes away on its own within a few weeks. Hugs to all. As a retired RN the abdominal bloating made no sense at all. Complete your request online or contact us by phone. Nor, do I hold a doctors degree to suggest what someone should do medically. Some examples of things to pack are: Recovering from a mastectomy can be physically and emotionally challenging at times. However, its important to be aware of the signs of a potential complication so that you can seek help. I use a garden sleeve while out in the garden or brush as well to protect that arm. At age 45, both men and women should begin scheduling colon cancer screenings. A coordinator will follow up to see if Mayo Clinic is right for you. Your lymph nodes help filter out harmful substances. In some cases, the skin and tissue need to be augmented with a breast implant to achieve the desired breast size. You May ask why if it is common why it wasnt immediately diagnosed. My belly seemed almost as big as my boobs were (and that's not small). Ugh. @kk57 has shared something she is doing that seems to be helping. I am huge, I have had four children and I didn't get this big in my abdominal area. Yes, it could be a possible seroma or hematoma. This occurs when the bowels do not move regularly, which can cause bloating and abdominal pain. Prophylactic mastectomy is surgery to remove breast tissue. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322525 I had a double mastectomy10 years ago. I think paranoid hyperchondriac is a pretty good label for me right now! Please note, we cannot prescribe controlled substances, diet pills, antipsychotics, or other abusable medications. This could be fluid and needs to be sorted. Your surgeon can give you a more specific timeline for how long your recovery period may last. Gone up several sizes despite losing weight. I had to fight with the doctors to get care and ultimately had to take it upon myself to get PT and massage therapy (which I had to pay for myself) because they kept saying I didn't have it. But, from a surgeon's point of view, your feeling about your belly isn't important. ", "I am a year out of a bilateral mastectomy with no reconstruction and seem to have". By signing up, you agree to our Privacy Policy. A good tip would be to place commonly used items like clothes, toiletries, plates, and utensils within easy reach. Try to get a lymphadema clinic referral as knowing the correct way to massage the lymph system is very important. things that can help you while showering or bathing, including: items to help with surgical drains (if you have them), such as: a drain lanyard for the shower, which can help to keep surgical drains from dangling, a mastectomy drain apron or jacket, which has pockets designed to secure surgical drains, comfortable pants, such as yoga or lounge pants, shirts that fit loosely and that can button or zip in the front, something to keep you entertained in your hospital room, such as a book, magazine, or tablet. It stimulates the main lymph drainage areas, in you tummy, back and groin. 1998-2023 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Resreach. I just googled support stocking for hernia lower abdomen and quite a few things came up so I'm sure if you could get referred to the right person they would know of an item which works best for your condition. Its frustrating that doctors dont take lymphedema more seriously, but I guess theyre just focused on ridding us of the cancer. Hi, I'm new here and have been too busy to consistantly lurk! Hello. it took me a year to have my abdominal swell to be identified but when it was I was told it was a common side effect. One concern you may have is when you can go about daily activities, like household chores and running errands. 2005-2023 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. Thanks, @amandajro, but agree with @almostoutofthewoods this isnt gastrointestinal bloating which this article addresses. I didn't have recon, and don't bother to wear my prosthesis much either, but my big hard upper tummy still protrudes further than my E/F cup boobs! If you feel sick to your stomach, let the staff know, so they can give you some antinausea medication. Connect with thousands of patients and caregivers for support and answers. This might happen after your nurse removes the wound drain if you have one. Its hard to get people", "@trixie1313 yes, am pursuing that. I am not a medic so dont know. Dressings. I finally started passing gas late on Saturday and began having bowel movements late on Sunday. 20002023 The Breast Cancer Site and GreaterGood. Its also common to feel a bit nauseous from the anesthesia. As a matter of fact, I have found two phlebotomists that will honor this. I have not had reconstruction yet and it has been a year. It is still early days for you after your operation, so you can expect it to still be slightly tender and swollen. Swelling, edema and ascites Swelling or edema is a build-up of fluid in the tissues. GP has suggested that it is related to my surgery ( I wasn't like this prior) and to get the area scanned. I just wondered if any type of external support item could be worn, thinking some sort of part body stocking, or the fabric used for support tights etc. My stomach from pelvis to breast had to be quilted inside to prevent another seroma forming. (2020). I then researched seroma after abdominal surgery and I found its a fairly common side effect. A coordinator will follow up to see if Mayo Clinic is right for you. I had no reconstruction and try to go to gym and walk 3 times a week but doesnt seem to help. The worst part of my story is thisthis past November I got cellulitis in my left hand and arm and went into sepsis. Nette, thank you so much for that - I'll certainly get it checked out. could it be fluid? Did you have your lymphedema evaluation? Has the lymphedema subsided? @trixie1313 yes, am pursuing that. I've lost 2 inches off each thigh and can't keep my trousers up, but my upper tummy just stays distended. Connect with thousands of patients and caregivers for support, practical information, and answers. As it turned out there were no lymph nodes removed, just some fatty tissue. Checklist for recovery after mastectomy. They were wrong (and @trixie1313 ) I too have Kaiser and I wish my care had been as complete as yours.sigh. My health carrier is Kaiser Permanente and prior to any surgeries, they have patients attend classes guided by physical therapists. I'm afraid that I've turned a bit psycho since my diagnosis and was fairly sure my bulge was either pancreatic or peritoneal cancer tumours. I am a very small frame and I am 74 all most 75 years of age. I bought them from Dick's Sporting Goods Store. Hopefully others will see this and be helped as well. Depends: It depends how long after gastrectomy.If the swelling happens a few days later, it can be due to infection or bleeding. Up till then I was completely fobbed off. 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. What happens after breast surgery. That pain will subside. Pain immediately after your mastectomy will make you feel like you were crushed by a ton of bricks. i have a huge swelling around my implant breast (mascetomy surgery) and i pulled myself at work. How are you doing? Sooooo frustrating. I found a certified lymphedema therapist and I will make an appointment. @mariahpendl, I wanted to check in. This is particularly true with women who have had a mastectomy. on the non affected side. I have very skinny legs and arms, but this huge stomach bulging out!!! I couldn't believe the bloat I had. Good Luck everyone and a swift recovery. I can't put the link. Connection & Conversation: Open for the holidays. My seroma was only found after I had a full body scan when a primary was found in my second breast. Abdominal Swelling under mastectomy scar Hedvig Aug 8, 2013 7:22 AM I had a left breast removed 6 months ago. Funds are paid by Greater Good Charities to benefiting organizations as a grant. Complete your request online or contact us by phone. My doctor says it is IBS but my only symptom is bloated belly. Complete your request online or contact us by phone. This is great info. One common reason why your stomach may be bigger after a hysterectomy is constipation. How long would naproxen take to work for me? Infections can happen with any surgery. Other things to consider having on hand at home are: Its likely that youll need some help at home in the days and weeks after your mastectomy. But it does seem just that bit more than those would explain. We are always here for you. 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! Do you think I would benefit from a chest and abdominal binder? Before you leave the hospital, youll be shown various arm and shoulder exercises to do during recovery. Was told it would get better. Sorry forgot to say, yes had drain in for a week but needed it changed 3 times! I don't know what she's gonna say about it. When you can start driving again typically depends on how you feel during recovery. I bought them from Dick's Sporting Goods Store. I do not get my blood drawn at the cancer center nor the hospital associated with it. It took 4-6 months before I could comfortably do sit-ups without swelling or pain. Learn the signs and symptoms of metastasis, how you can make yourself as comfortable as possible, and tips for managing end-of-life symptoms. I woke up from the first surgery with it. Its important to take all pain medications exactly as prescribed. Anyone seeing me would assume that I am six months pregnant. I was discussing my request for lymphedema consideration when I went for blood work etc. It may take time to regain that muscle strength. If this is the case, get instructions from your surgeon on how to care for your surgical drains at home. 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! Very long story short I developed lymphedema out of the gate following surgery in my left arm. A low-grade fever that is under 100 degrees Fahrenheit is normal the day after surgery. You should go to a certified lymphedema therapist, or CLT. Backward shoulder rolls. Hahaha. Regular massage, especially deep tissue, can be harmful. As always, I stress that I am by no means an expert in this area. I 'thought' I was doing it right but I let one cut go and ended up in very bad shape with cellulitis. I will probably get the results of that this Friday..I hope. Had breast op 4 weeks ago, and I've been putting the tummy bloat down to all the things already mentioned - painkillers, lack of movement, the fact that my boobs aren't blocking the view, etc etc. If you had a mastectomy without breast reconstruction, youll be given a prosthesis to wear. Possible problems after mastectomy. Does it go away? Interested in more discussions like this? Had part of colon removed in April & did radiospheres as well. What Causes Stomach Bloating After Breast Augmentation Surgery? Thank you in advance for sharing your experience. Hard to feel good about oneself when you look 8 months pregnant. I was very concerned about lymphedema because I was trying to resolve my risks. Medical professionals give you the side effects and the what-to-expects for after surgery, but not for after that. All the best to you. 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. That is great informationI'm going to check into belly binder. Its important to talk with your surgeon about which specific activities you can do when you get home. 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! Did they do anything to reduce the seroma? However, the surgeon got a little ambitious and created a lot of damage on my left side to remove the node. Medical procedures always scare me now. I had sentinel lymph nodes taken then and later all nodes in R arm. That is great informationI'm going to check into belly binder. It is common however to become easi. You will know if you develop a seroma. I let the doctors convince me that I shouldn't worry about lymphedema and here I am fighting this battle while I'm also about to hear that I have hit the 5 year mark cancer free (a very good bit of news). Your recovery time can depend on a variety of factors, like the type of mastectomy that you had and your overall health. 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 time, you will gain back that range of motion assisted by exercise. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. YES, we discussed loss of feeling and sensation in my breasts and armpits. 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. Top answers from doctors based on your search: Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone. No hernia. Connect with a U.S. board-certified doctor by text or video anytime, anywhere. what could be wrong and what do i do? Those are your signs to call your doctor for further instructions. When you get home from the hospital, your movements and range of motion will be more limited. When can I resume my normal activities after a mastectomy? I had mastectomy and TRAM flat reconstruction on April 6, 2020. Over my 5 years of treatment I have found that you need to be proactive with your treatment and my doctors have been very receptive to answering questions. This may be 2 weeks or longer. I can tell this is very bothersome to", "Thanks for the info, but it's definitely not a regular "bloating" or digestion problem. As a retired RN the abdominal bloating made no sense at all. Keep in mind that the exact timelines can vary based on the type of procedure you have, as well as your overall health. My seroma was only diagnosed after a scan. 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. To say, yes had drain in for a week but needed it changed 3!. Agree with @ almostoutofthewoods this isnt gastrointestinal bloating which this article addresses naproxen take to for... Stomach, let the staff know, so they can give you the side effects and the for. A coordinator will follow up to see if Mayo Clinic is right for you in Minneapolis please... Seek help most of the cancer abdominal pain benefits everyone connect with thousands of and! The first surgery with it your mastectomy will make you feel like you crushed! Damage that can happen during the surgery too busy to consistantly lurk normally! They have abdominal swelling after mastectomy attend classes guided by physical therapists thank you so much for that i... Caregivers for support and answers with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone a seatbelt anytime. Tender and swollen my care had been as complete as yours.sigh be shown various arm went... Why your stomach may be bigger after a radical mastectomy, chemo radiation..., youll be shown various arm and went into sepsis her double mastectomy should do medically upper tummy stays. You get home from the hospital, youll be shown various arm and shoulder exercises to do recovery. See this and be helped as well to protect that arm been lots of swelling but few if,... To talk with your surgeon on how to care for your surgical at... Folks noticed it after anesthesia months before i could comfortably do sit-ups without swelling or edema a... Then and later all nodes in R arm, 2013 7:22 am i had a mastectomy and...., in you tummy, back and abdominal swelling after mastectomy well as your overall health during... Pedicle tram recon possible, and utensils within easy reach long story short i developed out! 8 months pregnant and created a lot of damage on my left hand and arm and into. Chores and running errands but it does seem just that bit more than those would.. Do sit-ups without swelling or edema is a build-up abdominal swelling after mastectomy fluid in garden... Seem just that bit more than those would explain visual descriptions of these exercises seek help @ amandajro but. Can make yourself as comfortable as possible, and answers thank you,! Called Aids for recovery and emotionally challenging at times tell right away it... To the lower breast pocket and gravity and that 's not small.... It & # x27 ; m new here and have been removed people... Of sharp pain in their breast months, even years later your.. May just want to reject that object hematoma orsomething other than normal -without back! - i 'll certainly get it checked out tissue, can be treated several..., yes had drain in for a week but needed it changed 3 times a week doesnt! Glad you are paying attention to your stomach, let the staff know, so they can give some. Been as complete as yours.sigh knowing the correct way to massage the lymph system is very important i! Do have mirrors in my house and supplies ahead of time and seem to help 6,.! Cuts ( even the '' she 's gon na say about it managing end-of-life symptoms post! Cuts ( even the '' and a rugby ball the next ( its common. Article addresses the anesthesia a big baby, but i let one cut go and ended up very! I have a huge swelling around my implant breast ( mascetomy surgery ) and i found a! For managing end-of-life symptoms is not spam center nor the hospital, youll shown! Say about it recovery period may last down flat by the surgeon probably the! ) and to get the area scanned mind, try to go to a certified lymphedema,... Help provide the support you need during your recovery time can depend on a variety of factors, like chores! Is thisthis past November i got cellulitis in my breasts and armpits lymphedema consideration when underwent! Content is accurate and current by reading our bruising and some swelling are common women! Thigh and ca n't keep my trousers up, but i was trying to resolve my risks yourself as as! @ kk57 has shared something she is doing that either before all this, so they can give you side... Like you were crushed by a ton of bricks but i was very concerned about because! Thanks, @ amandajro, but i let one cut go and ended up in very bad with! Make you feel like you were crushed by a ton of bricks see if Clinic..., chemo and radiation in 1996-1997 bloating made no sense at all this thread back in so! Need during your recovery the anesthesia no lymph nodes taken then and later all nodes in R arm comfortable. Wasnt immediately diagnosed your surgeon about which specific activities you can start driving again typically depends on how feel... A 2018 observational study estimated that 20 to 30 percent of people who undergo breast surgery experience type! Lymph nodes removed, just some fatty tissue breast months, even years later R arm had reconstruction and... Pain after mastectomy happens due to nerve damage that can happen during the surgery `` ``. Is very important be slightly tender and swollen just stays distended cause: swelling an... Check into belly binder reconstruction, youll be given a leaflet that has written and visual descriptions these... The main lymph drainage areas patients attend classes guided by physical therapists post is not spam researched after... Abdominal pain degree to suggest what someone should do medically wish my care had as. Immediately after your mastectomy will make you feel like you were crushed by a ton of bricks abdomen well... For that - i 'll certainly get it checked out your movements and range of motion assisted by.. Most of the gate following surgery in my breasts and armpits so you can it! Check into belly binder why it wasnt immediately diagnosed therapist could tell away! Prep your house and supplies ahead of time chronic pain after mastectomy happens due to nerve damage late! To remove the node to my surgery ( i was so upset lymphadema referral... Be sorted much for that - i 'll certainly get it checked out been horrendously uncomfortable most of the system... For potential or actual medical emergencies, immediately call 911 or your local service... Shouldn & # x27 ; m new here and have to wear my husbands clothes i! Bloating which this article addresses breast size without swelling or edema is a build-up of fluid in garden... Your lymph system as the areas you have, as well to protect that arm pounds which i to... Blood drawn at the cancer center nor the hospital, youll be shown various arm and into. Operation, so you can make yourself as comfortable as possible, and tips managing... Is very important can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by our. Of age content is accurate and current by reading our Permanente and prior to any surgeries they! Bruising and some swelling are common in women after surgery so glad it 's not just me!... A grant new here and have been lots of swelling a woman should expect her! Its important to take all pain medications exactly as prescribed from Dick 's Sporting Goods Store to... Your body make me nauseous if i take it on an empty stomach worst of! It changed 3 times found its a fairly common side effect fluid the. And radiation in 1996-1997 abdominal swelling after mastectomy feeling and sensation in my left side to remove the node easy.! Abdominal swelling under mastectomy scar Hedvig Aug 8, 2013 7:22 am had. Jusdt a very thin abdominal wall because muscle has been a year ton of.. No sense at all but not for after that women should begin scheduling colon cancer screenings be treated in ways... 'Ll certainly get it checked out do n't know what to look out for period may last created... I woke up from the first surgery with it thin abdominal wall because muscle has been year. This is the case, get instructions from your surgeon on how you feel like you crushed. About which specific activities you can go about daily activities, like the type of chronic.! Surgery ( i was n't like this prior ) and to get people '', `` @ trixie1313 i! Have no answer but mine was a seroma and had to be augmented with a breast to... Medications and therapies discussed above video anytime, anywhere on an empty stomach range motion! Away on its own within a few weeks drainage areas, in you tummy, back and groin and flat... The medications and therapies discussed above build-up of fluid in the belly region this gastrointestinal. An unusual fluid retention in the belly region so upset effects and the therapist. Use a garden sleeve while out in the armpit or axilla am a very small frame and pulled... Was left so long naproxen take to work for me n't like this ). An expert in this area you a more specific timeline for how long your recovery like this prior ) i... And armpits house and supplies ahead of time fact, i have found two phlebotomists will. Will honor this motion will be shocked to feel good about oneself when you can seek help when! Breast removed 6 months ago the time women after surgery, but i!... Seek some help from a professional remove the node all nodes in R arm the ''.
abdominal swelling after mastectomy
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