Seeking Comfort After Lumpectomy: Incision Care Tips

Did they give you a surgical bra to wear? Maybe switch back to that. I prefer aquaphor over Vaseline. Don't wear anything that hurts your inscions or breast. Did you doctor tell you to massage your inscions lightly? Don't hesitate to go to physical therapy. Also there is this thing called LymphaTouch that can be used...it's amazing. Actually made in Finland. It really helped me. Find a physical therapist that has that if your pain doesn't get better

I don't want to scare you but I had horrible pain 3 weeks post op that lasted for 6 months..its finally better but still affects my daily life.I did alot to try to help the pain,PT,ice,topical sprays, massage,tens unit. I did not lay around after surgery,I did exercises and I'm healthy and have always recovered within 48 hrs of any surgery with very little pain meds. My surgeons were not help,did not offer any suggestions. PT helped some but then I discovered that there is actual oncology PT specialist. I drive 70 minutes twice a week to see them. The LymphaTouch machine really helped. Please try to find someone that does that. It traumatized me that my 2 surgeons did not help me. I've spent 30 years caring for others and deserved better care.

My surgeon is giving me a difficult time about imaging that the radiologist wants done. The radiologist needs an order from her but she says I don't need it. The nurse called me to schedule a follow up appointment.....I was driving so I told her I would have to look to see when I work. They didn't want to see me or be concerned when I was in severe pain ,now there is the imaging issue. I don't want to go see her....I need a new doctor. That follow up appointment is just a check in the box to them. They don't care about me.

I’m allergic to Vaseline. I think Aquaphor contains Vaseline. Does LymphaTouch replace those?

You can use any good lubricant,oil,lotion what works for you. The LymphaTouch is a machine that gently lifts up the tissue to allow better healing. Please find a Physical therapist that can use it on your chest. It made a world of difference. If you have to drive an hour or more,it would be worth it. Twicec a week for a few weeks. The company is in Findland. You can maybe contact them to see who has a machine in your area. I sent the owner an email to thank the company for their work because it made such a difference in my life. If I would have known about it sooner,I might be better. Also ,don't be afraid to massage your inscions. You tube how to do that,there are some great PT videos . I'm amazed at how Physical Therapist can impact patients lives.

Post-surgery comfort can be challenging, especially when dealing with incision care and finding the right support garments. Many community members have found success with softer bra options like camisoles with built-in support, front-closure bras, or even going without a bra when possible during healing - though it's always best to check with your surgical team about what's right for your specific situation.