Some thoughts

🌸 Notes & Reminders From My Lumpectomy Experience

Underarm Pain After Lymph Node Biopsy

The underarm pain after my lymph node biopsy (done during lumpectomy) was real. Not unbearable, but definitely a nagging, persistent discomfort. The best thing I found to help was a small pillow tucked under my arm, especially when sleeping. If I wore a shirt to bed, I could easily park the pillow there and keep it nicely in place.

Cornstarch Powder for Skin Comfort

A surprising little hero: cornstarch powder. I used it under my arm to help the skin glide better and reduce irritation. It made a real difference in managing daily discomfort.

Pain Timeline

By around the 4-week mark, the constant pain started to ease. The intensity wasn’t awful, but it was always present—just enough to keep me aware of the trauma and healing happening in that area.

Breast Incision Care

The lumpectomy scar on my breast has been easy to manage. It’s healing well and doesn’t bother me. I’ve been alternating between silicone scar tape and hydrocolloid strips, and both seem to be working beautifully. The scar is not raised or angry-looking, and I feel like I’m on track for a good cosmetic outcome.

Axillary Web Syndrome (Cording)

Ugh. This showed up fast after surgery and has been my biggest nuisance. It’s a weird, tight feeling like cords running from my underarm down my arm.

Here’s what helped:

• Gentle stretching and massaging from day one
• Not babying the arm—I kept using it within reason
• A visit to a physical therapist, who showed me targeted massages and stretches that really helped

Radiation Prep Basket

To get ready for radiation, I made a list of everything I might need during and after treatment. I picked it all up at Walmart and stashed it neatly in a little basket. I feel really good about what I bought—it’s high quality and should carry me through radiation without needing to scramble later.

👙 The Bra Quest — And the Glorious Victory

Finding the right bras after surgery took some real effort. I had a long list of requirements:

• No underwire
• No boning
• Gentle, soft fabrics
• Truly comfortable
• Still supportive

I wasn’t willing to settle for anything scratchy, tight, stiff, or suffocating. And after a lot of trial and error… I found several bras that actually checked all the boxes! I was genuinely surprised (and so relieved). Each one feels like a little hug instead of a cage.

These have made such a difference during recovery - and I’ve been singing their praises to all my friends. When your body is going through so much, having a bra that doesn’t add to the discomfort is priceless.

I’m thinking I need to make a page or a section that is good for shopping!