Question for other Surgery Patients
 

Hi ~ I haven't had a mastectomy, but I've had a lumpectomy. This was almost 3 years ago. They did take out quite a bit of tissue, but considering that, I look pretty darned good! The surgeon did an excellent job.

The problem is, I still have LOTS of pain! Do others of you have this too? I was told that I could have this for several years, or maybe for GOOD! Huh??? I sure don't understand why! I'm healed up, so why in the world would I continue to have constant pain? I don't dare touch myself, and having a mammogram is a new experience in AGONY!

Any others out there??? :eek:

Me too Leesa! My history sounds exactly like your's.

I had a lumpectomy 5 years ago where the surgeon removed a chunk of tissue and left a caved in area under one breast, right where my bra sits. It took around 3 years before I could wear a proper bra again (I had to wear sports bras that looked like crop tops), and even now I still can't wear underwired bras without them hurting the scar line.

I too had a nasty sharp pain like you described. I went to the doctor about it and was told there may have been a trapped nerve in there somewhere but I really doubt that's what caused it as the pain gradually eased. I think it took about 3 or 4 years all up, and it no longer bothers me.

So I can't explain why it happens, but I guess it must be a costochondritis of some kind, caused by the surgery. Anyway I did want you to know that you're not alone and I hope your pain eases soon.

Thanks Koala! :) It helps to know that I'm not being a wimp! lol I thought maybe I was being "oversensitive" but this really HURTS! I sure hope it quits one of these days and I'm not one of those that the doc said would have it "forever." :eek: Good grief.

Thanks again. Peace, Lee