CommunitiesJust Diagnosed With Breast CancerHow long should I take off work after a lumpectomy?

How long should I take off work after a lumpectomy?

LS

Community Member

a year ago

Hello ladies. I have been diagnosed with Stage 1 Invasive Ductal Carcinoma and I am scheduled for a lumpectomy this coming Thursday. How long have others with a similar diagnosis taken off work?

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accepted answer

Accepted Answer

Recovery time after a lumpectomy varies from person to person, but many people find they need about a week off work, though some return sooner while others need a bit longer depending on their job and how they heal. The best approach is to discuss this with your surgical team, as they know the specifics of your procedure and can give guidance based on whether your work involves lifting or physical activity.

3+ patients found this helpful

JW

Community Member

6 months ago

Hello! I had a lumpectomy and l sentinel node removal 10 days ago. I took the following day off from work, wish I would have taken two just to rest a bit more. I work from home and take phone calls so I am not exerting myself by any means. I feel whatever your job is will determine the amount of time off or any adaptations you may need. I am still sore and bruised so not back to doing life as normal. What I wish I had been told is that I would need a compression bra for at least a week. I got three after surgery. Look for no seams on the side & arm pit and soft material. Ice packs are a friend. Thinking of you during this journey

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DP

Community Member

6 months ago

I needed more days than I expected. My surgery was on a Weds and I was expecting no problem working Monday. I have a desk job. Only managed half a day all week. Was so tired

ND

Community Member

6 months ago

I was off 3 weeks. Originally was going to be off 2 but I developed a seroma and took another week due to pain and discomfort

CA

Community Member

6 months ago

I had lumpectomy done on a Thursday, took off Mon and Tuesday. I work from home, however I was bruised and sore, didn't sleep well the first few days. I'm glad I took off to rest and also not to stress out about my work.

BD

Community Member

6 months ago

Brenda D was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma grade 2 waiting for the next step praying for both of us.

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TH

Community Member

6 months ago

I was diagnosed with Stage 1 Invasive Ductal Carcinoma grade 3 in May and had my lumpectomy on July 9th. My surgeon removed the mass and 4 lymph nodes. I work from home as well and my job brings its share of stress. My surgery was on a Tuesday. I was off from work just about 2 weeks. I was bored. I’m scheduled to start chemo on 8/26. Prayerfully I’ll be able to work the remainder of the week. I’ve been told by many warriors working helped them get through their cancer journey. Please listen to your body.

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KI

Community Member

6 months ago

I had my lumpectomy on 12/22 and, after only a couple of days, felt fine with just a little discomfort trying to sleep at night. Hope all goes well.

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BD

Community Member

6 months ago

Good evening I have my surgery on the 18th a lumpectomy with also sentil node biopsy praying for a speedy recovery in the name of Jesus 🙏

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MD

Community Member

6 months ago

Li had a lumpectomy and only needed a few days to recover. Still felt uncomfortable but able to return to almost normal after week

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DB

Community Member

6 months ago

My dr said I just need a few days as long as you lift nothing over 10 pounds

RM

Community Member

6 months ago

I use sports bras, they have no seams and very soft. Good luck to you.

BD

Community Member

6 months ago

Good evening I had my surgery on the 13th and everything went well waiting on the results from the sentil node biopsy praying for you all as well

KR

Community Member

6 months ago

For me I believe I was off for 2 weeks and had the exact same as you. Was very bruised too. Looked gross but it will go away.

CF

Community Member

6 months ago

Hello had my lumpectomy with 3 nodes removed on Friday went back to work Wednesday..absolutely no lifting while it was a lil uncomfortable annoying feeling it wasn't pain I didn't even take Tylenol.. wishing you well

CA

Community Member

2 months ago

Recovery time after a lumpectomy varies from person to person, but many people find they need about a week off work, though some return sooner while others need a bit longer depending on their job and how they heal. The best approach is to discuss this with your surgical team, as they know the specifics of your procedure and can give guidance based on whether your work involves lifting or physical activity.

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