Tips for Preparing for a Lumpectomy and Sentinel Node Biopsy

I haven't done my lumpectomy yet. But from what I've been told it is a relatively short surgery. About 30 to 40 minutes. General anesthesia. After the surgery, you will probably be tired and have some pain. I had pain from a breast biopsy for several days. The skin around the cut (incision) may feel firm, swollen, and tender, and be bruised. I would think the first few days you will have some soreness. There's going to be some bruising of course.

I would prepare by having meals ready at home like broth, fresh fruit, magazines to read, etc. Anything to make you more comfortable. Ask your doctor about pain meds ( prescription and over the counter/OTC). Have ice packs in the fridge. I would imagine no heating pads but ask your doctor about that. I've read on this site here of other women having lumpectomies and they did pretty good

In preparation, stay busy, stay away from the news, read something comforting, I do low level yoga with calming music from YouTube. Do something you enjoy. Talk to someone who is positive and supportive.

I had my lumpectomy surgery and sentinel nodes biopsy procedure on April 15th. It took about 3 hours, I'm assuming, because how many lymph nodes were removed. My breast is healing well, but my arm is still sore. Waiting to go to physical therapy 😌

My lumpectomy was successful, and little discomfort the 1st time. I was very tired afterward. Also had a 2nd lumpectomy and no pain at all, and lymph nodes removed. Was out shopping next day. Again I was tired but no other complaints. Wishing u the best!!

Can I ask roughly how much was your lumpectomy before insurance coverage .. I’m waiting for an estimate cost from surgeon office and trying to figure out out of pocket Costs.. (I’m impatient) anyone can answer Im sure each states rates vary

I had my lumpectomy and removal of Sentinel node Feb 2023. I was ready for a week of bedrest but felt pretty good the day after. Yes- tired. Lots of long naps. I tried going for a walk the second day and realized that was too soon...dizzy and nauseous from anesthesia still in my system, but day 3 was fine. No need for pain meds. Be seated the first time uou look under the bandages because swelling and discoloration are a bit shocking. I felt like Napoleon for the first couple of weeks going for walks because I was favoring my left side, holding my shoulder and arm close to my body with my hand in my coat pocket to cut down on the vibration of each step. It is a distant memory now. Healed for a month before starting radiation. After 15 days 1x weekly of radiation therapy I started on Anastrozole. I enrolled at YMCA in free LIVESTRONG exercise program for cancer survivors and UT was the best experience ever...socially. emotionally and physically. After the 3 months I joined the Y and continued the exercises on my own. I've been taking one Anastrozole pill each morning since last May. Afternoon naps are my daily habit. From diagnosis to now is a night and day feeling. Cancer is not the end! Follow doctors' advice and get back to your normal life and continue where you left off, thankful , healthy and active. Pretty amazing.Hugs, love and healing vibrations coming your way!

It's completely natural to feel anxious before surgery, and your feelings are valid. Many community members find it helpful to prepare comfortable clothing that's easy to put on afterward, arrange for extra support at home during recovery, and write down any last-minute questions for your medical team - sharing your experience here afterward could also help others going through similar procedures.