Recovery after lumpectomy

A lumpectomy (also called breast conserving surgery or wide local excision) is often a day procedure. Some people need to stay in hospital for a day or two. It depends on the surgery you have and how well your body recovers.

We explain what to expect in the first few weeks as you continue your recovery at home.

What to expect in hospital

Immediately after surgery, you will have a dressing over the surgery site.

If you had a sentinel node biopsy, you may see a blue patch on your breast from the dye that was used. This blue fades gradually but can last from 1 to 6 months.

Some people who have a lumpectomy will have a drainage tube after surgery.

The first few weeks at home

Wounds and scars

Your wound from surgery may take a week or more to heal. The wound is usually covered with a waterproof dressing so you can shower. This will stay in place until your follow-up appointment.

When your surgeon advises it is safe, you can start to soften the scar with a moisturising cream.

Gentle moisturisers without perfume or chemicals are a good option, such as:

• sorbolene
• Vitamin E oil or cream
• Bio-Oil
• MooGoo cream, which many BCNA members have found works well.

A few weeks after surgery, gentle massage can also help soften the scars. Ask your surgeon or breast care nurse when it is safe to start massage. They can also show you the correct massage technique.

Daily routine

It is best to not use deodorant until your wounds are fully healed and you have checked with your breast surgeon or breast care nurse.

Comfortable clothing

A special post-surgical bra is available while you recover. Ask your breast care nurse or other nurses to order you a My Care Kit. It contains a bra with soft seams and lining, to provide comfort and support. The kit is free thanks to a partnership between Berlei and BCNA.

Movement and exercise

Your treating team will give you some simple arm and shoulder exercises. You can do these before and immediately after breast conserving surgery. These will help to manage any shoulder stiffness you may be experience after surgery. Massaging the area can also help.

Keeping active is also important to reduce your risk of lymphoedema - swelling in the arms or legs - after surgery.

Return to normal activities and work

You may feel ready to go back to work or start normal activities after a couple of weeks. Some people need longer to recover and there is no right or wrong recovery time.

Emotional wellbeing

Your physical recovery is important but you also need time to recover emotionally. Some people feel upset about changes to their body, sexuality or self-esteem after breast conserving surgery.

Support is available if you need it:

• Talk to your breast care nurse or doctors about how you are feeling.
• Connect with others who have had breast conserving surgery in our Online Network.
• Contact our Helpline on 1800 500 258.