I am 58 and had a lumpectomy 3 weeks ago for dcis and invasive ductal carcinoma, with a sentinel node resection to confirm no regional spread. I had a previous episode almost 10 years ago on the other breast, with the same surgery and general treatment plan (my new cancer is not a recurrence - it is its own, new cancer). For both recoveries, the lymph node sites were more uncomfy than the breast sites, and any pain/discomfort has been very manageable with acetaminophen for the first couple weeks after both surgeries.

I was able to shower the next day, no problems with that. My steri strips stayed on for almost 3 weeks, and healing has been excellent.

Because I had both dcis and idc, I am receiving radiation this week, just 3 treatments. I will also be on AI therapy for 5 years. With my first breast cancer, I recieved 10 days of brachytherapy radiation and 5 years of tamoxifen, which went well, almost no side effects.

Best wishes for successful surgery and quick healing! Be sure to reach out for support here and with your irl helpers as your journey continues. You are not alone.