Post-Surgery Symptoms After Breast Exploration: What to Expect

Postoperative symptoms after breast exploration surgery?

Hello Doctor: I underwent a breast exploration surgery on February 8, during which a papilloma and part of the breast tissue were removed.
I returned for a follow-up on February 13, and the wound appeared normal.
There is no need for further follow-ups.
I would like to ask the doctor a few questions:
1.
Although my wound no longer hurts, I have not been prescribed any medication or ointment.
Will the wound heal on its own? Are there any specific situations I should be particularly aware of?
2.
While the wound is not painful, my nipple is inverted, and there is significant pain when touched (it is very sensitive).
Is this normal?
3.
My breast does not feel as soft as it used to; it feels hard and there is some tenderness when touched.
Is this normal?
I appreciate the doctor taking the time to alleviate my concerns.
Thank you.
🙏

Jiao Lü Zhe, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/02/22

Dr. Chen Ronghong reply Surgery

Hello,
1.
If follow-up visits are not necessary, it indicates that the surgical wound is healing well; just be careful not to excessively pull on the wound.

2.
If the nipple appears inverted, it may indicate that the surgical excision included some of the glandular tissue beneath the nipple.
Damage to the nerve fibers during the excision may lead to increased sensitivity, which typically improves over time.
Additionally, you may consider supplementing with B vitamins or seek medical evaluation for medications to treat neuropathic pain.

3.
In the short term after excision, the tissue may swell, and over the long term, it may undergo fibrosis.
It will gradually soften over time, but it usually will not be as soft as the original tissue.

Reply Date: 2023/02/22

More Info

After undergoing breast exploration surgery, it is completely normal to have questions and concerns about your recovery process. Let's address your queries one by one.

1. Wound Healing: It's reassuring to hear that your wound is not painful and that you have been advised not to return for further check-ups. Generally, surgical wounds can heal on their own without the need for topical medications, especially if there are no signs of infection (such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge). The healing process can vary from person to person, but as long as you maintain good hygiene and avoid any activities that might strain the area (like heavy lifting or vigorous exercise), your wound should continue to heal well. It's important to monitor for any unusual symptoms, such as persistent pain, fever, or changes in the appearance of the wound, as these could indicate complications.

2. Sensitivity and Changes in the Nipple: The fact that your nipple appears to be inverted and is sensitive to touch can be concerning, but it is not uncommon after surgery. The surgical procedure may have affected the surrounding tissues, including the nerves and glands in the area, leading to changes in sensation. This sensitivity may improve over time as the nerves heal. If the pain is severe or if you notice any other concerning symptoms, it would be wise to consult your healthcare provider for further evaluation. Sometimes, vitamin B supplements can help with nerve healing, but this should be discussed with your doctor.

3. Changes in Breast Texture: It is also normal for the breast tissue to feel firmer or harder after surgery. This can be due to swelling, scar tissue formation, or changes in the underlying breast tissue after the removal of the tumor. The firmness may gradually decrease over time as the swelling subsides and the tissues heal. However, it is important to differentiate between normal post-operative changes and signs of complications. If you experience persistent pain or if the hardness increases, you should seek medical advice. Gentle massage and specific exercises may help improve the softness of the breast tissue, but these should be done cautiously and ideally under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

In summary, while many of the symptoms you are experiencing can be normal after breast surgery, it is crucial to remain vigilant and communicate with your healthcare provider about any concerns. Recovery can take time, and each individual's experience is unique. If you have any persistent worries or if your symptoms worsen, do not hesitate to reach out for further evaluation and support. Your health and peace of mind are paramount during this recovery phase.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Post-Surgery Sensitivity and Comfort After Breast Cancer Treatment

Hello! I recently went to the hospital for a check-up and found out that I have breast cancer. At that moment, I really couldn't accept it, especially since I am working abroad and it is inconvenient to return to Taiwan. The doctor believed that immediate action was necessar...

Dr. Wu Yuting reply Surgery
1. Is it normal to find that my breast sensitivity is not as pronounced as before during the recovery period? A: This is a normal phenomenon. 2. I am unable to sleep well at night, whether lying on my side or back, as my chest feels very uncomfortable. Are there any methods to a...

Understanding Post-Surgery Nipple Pain and Complications

Hello doctor, I underwent nipple inversion reconstruction surgery at the beginning of January. However, about three months post-surgery, I started experiencing pain around the nipple area along with a hard lump. During my follow-up visit, the doctor mentioned it might be related ...

Dr. Chen Jiaming reply Surgery
The nipple is the convergence point of the mammary ducts, and surgical procedures may disrupt the original ductal system (pre-existing retraction may lead to duct obstruction), resulting in the retention of secretions in the mammary ducts beneath the nipple, causing a sensation o...

Understanding Post-Operative Changes After Minimally Invasive Breast Surgery

Hello Doctor, I underwent minimally invasive surgery at the end of April to remove a benign tumor measuring over one centimeter from my right breast. A week after the surgery, during my follow-up visit, it was discovered that I had a hematoma (I could clearly feel a large soft ma...

Dr. Tang Yuxiong reply Surgery
Hello Ms. Chen: Based on your description, it may be postoperative fibrosis. It is recommended that you return to the clinic for an ultrasound evaluation.

Post-Surgery Care for Breast Surgery: Key Questions Answered

Dear Dr. Lin, Thank you very much for your detailed response on August 15th. My mother and our family feel more informed about the surgery, and we are more at ease after reading your reply. Thank you. My mother (56 years old) underwent a breast fine needle localization biopsy tw...

Dr. Lin Kecheng reply Surgery
Dear Miss Juanjuan, I apologize for the delay in my response as I attended the International Breast Medicine Conference in Taipei this past Saturday and Sunday. I hope this has not caused you any concern. I am pleased to hear that your biopsy results indicate benign calcified ti...