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Questions as I prepare for a lumpectomy: Tips please
Hello
I’m diagnosed with DCIS and have a lumpectomy scheduled for 5/11
I’m hoping you can share with me the experience after a lumpectomy
(1)Were you in pain for days weeks after?
(2) Can you wash your hair and shower normal after? If not, how many days before you can do so?
(3) anyone here has DCIS and not have radiation after?
Thank you
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@letsdothis Thank you for sharing, it gives me hope and lessen my fear and anxiety. If you don't mind me asking, did you have to go back and have the stitches removed? Thanks again
@jules2026 I had minimal pain that could be managed with Tylenol. The surgeon injected my breast with local anesthetic which did the trick. Honestly i was having so much pain before the surgery that having the tumor removed abolished the pain. The surgeon used disolvable stitches and skin glue. I was able to shower the next day. I did have a good amount of fatigue after surgery but that lasted maybe a week. I didn't have lymph node resection. I would imagine that can change the experience a little bit. Honestly, I was a bit nervous about surgery but more than that I wanted the cancer out so at the same time it was a relief to have surgery. My best wishes to you!
Hello I had lumpectomy few weeks ago.
(1)Were you in pain for days weeks after? - Felt little to no real pain, just tenderness...took the 600 ibuphrofen about 24 hours.
(2) Can you wash your hair and shower normal after? If not, how many days before you can do so? - Was told after 24 hours could shower wash hair as usual.
(3) anyone here has DCIS and not have radiation after? Mine was Grade 3 DCIS Pagets so I am meeting with radiation oncologist Initial Consultation, for treatment starting hopefully shortly thereafter. I hope I feel connected with this radialogist, and if I feel comfortable with the way she answers my questions, etc. I will not seek 2nd opinion.
The Mayo Clinic support group is very helpful in insights, questions to ask providers, etc. Wishing you the best dear.
Had my lumpectomy in October 2025. I was surprised how little pain I experienced. I did use Tylenol for 3-4 days and those little ice packs were my best friends. Get plenty of those from your doc. I think you need to wait a few days before showering but after that you should be fine. Your doc will go over all of that.
I did do 5 rounds of radiation with zero side effects.
I'n now on Letrozole as my cancer was estrogen receptive. Besides some mild hot flashes - I'm feeling normal.
You got this! Sending you a big hug!
@jules2026
Im so glad to provide hope! My stitches are dissolving, so no I did not have to go back for removal of stitches
👍🏽
@jules2026 no to stitches. All were internal and skin was glued.
@jules2026 this was about a 3 foot long Ace bandage - stretchy, non stick with Velcro on 1 end. It was wrapped about 2 1/2 times around the pressure bra to time more pressure over the tissue to avoid hematomas and covered the lymph node site under the area as well. Ace bandages are usually 12-18” and used for limb injuries- sprained wrist, ankle, etc to help keep down swelling.