How can I manage pain after lumpectomy surgery?

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MJ

Community Member

4 months ago

I had my lumpectomy yesterday. One lymph node was removed and sent to pathology! I had two spots and luckily my surgeon was able to get both in one scoop! I came home and went to bed - flat! I adjustable bed, but I didn't want to adjust it! Its mainly for my husband. My pain was almost intolerable, had me in tears. So I went to the living room and sat in the recliner. My pain was gone almost immediately! So after several hours watching TV and having dinner, I went to bed! It has been great! So looks like I am a reclining sleeper now! Hopefully tomorrow, 24 hours post op, will be good!

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Accepted Answer

Finding the right position for comfortable rest after surgery can make such a difference in managing pain and getting the healing sleep your body needs. Many people discover that sleeping slightly elevated in a recliner or with extra pillows helps reduce swelling and pressure on the surgical site. Wishing you continued comfort as you recover, and hopefully others in the community can share what positions and pain management strategies worked best for them during their recovery.

3+ patients found this helpful

RC

Community Member

4 months ago

Hi Mary, I understand your pain and glad you’re feeling better. Stay positive in your waiting period. Get ready to get active in walking and drinking plenty of water.🙂

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MJ

Community Member

4 months ago

Thanks! I am anxious to get active again!

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MD

Community Member

4 months ago

Thank goodness that you were able to get some relief in recline mode!

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LH

Community Member

4 months ago

Sorry you we're having so much pain glad you found a resolution. Good luck to you. We're all here for you.

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SS

Community Member

4 months ago

I slept in a reclining position fif a few weeks after my double mastectomy. It was most comfortable.

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MJ

Community Member

4 months ago

I wanted to come back here to let the girls who commented on my whining a week ago! I had my post-op appointment yesterday and I have been declared CANCER FREE! The most beautiful words to me! My surgeon got clean margins all around and the lymph node was negative! They have sent the cancerous tissue to a lab in California for an oncotype test. After I recover from the surgery, I will have some radiation and a hormone blocker pill but I haven't seen those doctors yet. I wanted to thank you for your comments, prayers and good thoughts! Keep thinking positive thoughts!

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SS

Community Member

4 months ago

Great news!! It was wonderful for me to hear 'cancer free' this year and end my treatments. Good luck with radiation!

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MJ

Community Member

4 months ago

Thanks, Susan!

LH

Community Member

4 months ago

So glad you got good news😃

CA

Community Member

2 months ago

Finding the right position for comfortable rest after surgery can make such a difference in managing pain and getting the healing sleep your body needs. Many people discover that sleeping slightly elevated in a recliner or with extra pillows helps reduce swelling and pressure on the surgical site. Wishing you continued comfort as you recover, and hopefully others in the community can share what positions and pain management strategies worked best for them during their recovery.

How can I manage pain after lumpectomy surgery?

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