Is It Normal to Have a Lump After Breast Surgery?

Q: Is It Normal to Have a Lump After Breast Surgery?

Hello： It may be scar tissue. <br>You can apply heat and massage, but you should monitor for any enlargement. <br>Regular outpatient follow-up is necessary, and if you notice any increase in size, it is recommended to seek an immediate outpatient examination. <br>Wishing you safe

Post-operative lumps after breast cancer surgery?

On September 23, I underwent a partial mastectomy, and to this day, there is still a lump near the surgical site.
Is this normal? Can I use heat therapy or massage to help reduce it?

miao, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2014/11/27

Dr. Zhou Jiazhen reply Breast and Thyroid

Hello: It may be scar tissue.
You can apply heat and massage, but you should monitor for any enlargement.
Regular outpatient follow-up is necessary, and if you notice any increase in size, it is recommended to seek an immediate outpatient examination.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Chou Chia-Cheng, Chief of Surgery, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2014/11/27

More Info

After undergoing breast surgery, particularly a partial mastectomy, it is not uncommon to experience the formation of lumps or hard areas around the surgical site. This phenomenon can be attributed to several factors related to the healing process.
Firstly, after any surgical procedure, the body initiates a healing response that includes inflammation, which can lead to swelling and the formation of scar tissue. This scar tissue may feel firm or hard to the touch, and it can take time for the tissue to soften as healing progresses. In many cases, this hard lump is a result of the accumulation of fluid (seroma) or blood (hematoma) in the area, which can occur post-surgery.
In your case, since you had surgery on September 23 and are still noticing a lump, it is essential to monitor its characteristics. If the lump is not associated with pain, redness, or warmth, it is likely part of the normal healing process. However, if you experience any of these symptoms, it would be prudent to consult your healthcare provider to rule out any complications such as infection or abnormal fluid accumulation.

Regarding your question about heat application or massage, gentle heat can sometimes help alleviate discomfort and promote blood flow to the area, potentially aiding in the healing process. However, it is crucial to approach this with caution. Applying heat directly to the surgical site should be done carefully, ensuring that it does not cause any discomfort or exacerbate the situation.
As for massage, while gentle massage may help in some cases to break down scar tissue and improve mobility, it is essential to wait until your surgeon gives you the green light. Massaging too soon or too aggressively can disrupt the healing tissue and potentially lead to complications.
In summary, while it is relatively common to have a lump after breast surgery, it is vital to keep an eye on it and consult your healthcare provider if you have any concerns. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation and ensure that your recovery is on track. Always prioritize following your surgeon's post-operative care instructions, as they are tailored to your individual needs and circumstances.

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