What Causes Pain At Surgical Area After A Lumpectomy On Left Breast?

Posted on Thu, 3 Apr 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Thu, 3 Apr 2014 Answered on

Wed, 23 Apr 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi, Just wanted to ask what may sounds silly. I had lumpectomy on left breast and armpit lymphnode removal 5 years ago. Did Chemo, radiotherapy and in on-going hormonal therapy as of now. There are several times where I felt the surgical area is aching, but not severe. I felt this especially when I am under a lot of stress or feeling sad. I also felt the slight pain when I ate something unhealthy. At first I thought it was just my mind, it happened many times already. Well, is there any acceptable explanation for this? just wondering. Thank you for the time.

Answered by Dr. Deepak Kishore Kaltari (1 hour later)

Brief Answer: Possibility of scar tenderness Detailed Answer: Hi Welcome to Healthcare-Magic Greetings of the day Dear Ms If the surgical site has healed and there is no excessive growth of fibrous tissue at the site of scar , it's unlikely that there is problem with the scar. I assume that you have palpated the surgical site and there is no underlying swelling. I could suggest the following possibility: 1. Scar pain or tenderness; the scar could be unduly be tender due to over growth of fibrous tissue. Also constant friction of brassiere with the scar can also cause pain 2. If there has been underlying hematoma at the site of Lumpectomy which could have undergone calcification can be causing pain 3. Pain unrelated to Lumpectomy: Sometimes Gastroesophageal reflux could cause pain in chest and it could have been felt as scar pain. As the pain occurs due to eating unhealthy food, possibility of Gastroesophageal reflux needs to be considered. In case you require any further assistance, will be glad to assist you. Take care Best Regards Dr Deepak Kishore MBBS, MS, MCH Consultant Surgeon

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj