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Sharing my experience 2 1/2 weeks after bi lateral Masectomy and reconstruction

By Fightinglikeagirl Wednesday, November 14, 2012

I am shocked at how good my chest looks after reconstruction.  PS put in small implants.  I had two tumors in my left breast and one affected lymph node.  I decided to have bi-lateral masectomy even though I had no signs on cancer in my right breast.  

 

I hade 16 rounds of chemo prior to surgery to shrink tumors.  My general surgeon and Oncologist are pleased with my response to chemo-tumors shrunk to 1.8 and 1.7 cm and the cancer in the affected lymph node was almost gone. 

 

I didn't appreciate that surgery is so tough.  I feel like a big baby, because I have always had a high threshhold for pain.  My last last two babies were delivered before I could have pain meds.  The drains were more painful than I thought.  I have felt so helpless and frustrated by the pain.  I tried to prepare before surgery by doing strength building and stretching exercises.  I feel some relief from the prescription meds and ice packs.  I went a certified Oncology massage therapist last week and felt wonderful for a couple of days.  Just can't afford it again til next month.  I thought the pain and tightness would be declining, but I guess I was not realistic.  I am worn out by early evening and feel like I am 82yrs old instead of 42!  LOL   I might be referred to Physical Therapy this week by my PS.  Just wanted to vent and share.  I am going to try meditation at my local Cancer Support center to help cope with the pain and frustration.    

Silicone Breast Implants -- Another Decision to Face
PJ Hamel, Health Guide
11/14/12 12:47pm

You're doing everything possible to cope with this, plus you prepared ahead of time; it's unfortunate you're still feeling so much discomfort and pain, but trust me, it DOES pass. We all heal at different speeds; every new day is another step closer to feeling good again. I'm so glad you found us and vented; we're here to listen, to support, and to help you through this journey. Best of luck - I'm sending you healing energy. PJH

Phyllis Johnson, Health Guide
11/18/12 6:06am

If the pain is increasing, the doctor needs to know.  Recovery may be slow, but from week to week you should see improvement.  I think many people (including doctors) do not understand how much energy the body uses to heal after a surgery.  My doctor said that I would be recovered from my single mastectomy in three weeks, but it was actually more like six before I could fully extend my arm.  You may need to do less or take more naps for a while.  Keep in mind that you are also recovering from the chemotherapy--which was not the case when you had your babies.  Physical therapy really helped me with getting my range of motion back, so I hope it helps you too.  Pamper yourself and try to be patient.  Thank you for sharing your experience here.  It will help other people going through similar surgery.

By Fightinglikeagirl— Last Modified: 11/18/12, First Published: 11/14/12