Breast Cancer Symptoms After Mastectomy Introduction
Learn about the potential breast cancer symptoms after mastectomy, including signs of recurrence and complications. Stay informed to support timely detection and post-surgery health monitoring.
Written by Dr. J T Hema Pratima
Reviewed by Dr. Dhankecha Mayank Dineshbhai MBBS
Last updated on 14th Oct, 2025
Undergoing a mastectomy (surgical removal of one or both breasts) is a significant step in breast cancer treatment. While this procedure can be life-saving, some patients may still experience concerns about cancer recurrence or new symptoms afterward. Understanding what to expect and when to seek medical advice is crucial for long-term health and peace of mind. This article explains possible symptoms after a mastectomy, when to be concerned, and how to manage your well-being post-surgery.
Possible Symptoms After Mastectomy
After a mastectomy, some discomfort and changes are normal as your body heals. However, certain symptoms may indicate complications or cancer recurrence. Here’s what to watch for:
1. Normal Post-Surgical Symptoms (Expected)
Pain and tenderness: Common in the first few weeks after surgery.
Swelling or bruising: Usually subsides within a few weeks.
Numbness or tingling: Due to nerve damage during surgery; may improve over time.
Scar tissue formation: Can feel firm or lumpy but is typically harmless.
2. Warning Signs That Need Medical Attention
While most post-mastectomy changes are normal, some symptoms may indicate infection, lymphoedema (swelling due to lymph node removal), or cancer recurrence. Contact your doctor if you notice:
New lumps or thickening near the mastectomy scar, chest wall, or armpit.
Persistent pain that doesn’t improve with time or medication.
Swelling in the arm or chest (could be lymphoedema).
Skin changes (redness, warmth, rash, or sores that don’t heal).
Unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or bone pain (possible signs of metastasis).
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Tips
Why Do Symptoms Occur After Mastectomy?
Some of the symptoms that occur after mastectomy are:
1. Surgical Healing Process: After a mastectomy, the body undergoes natural healing, which can cause temporary discomfort, swelling, and scar tissue formation.
2. Lymphoedema (Swelling Due to Lymph Node Removal): If lymph nodes were removed during surgery, fluid buildup can cause arm or chest swelling. Early treatment helps manage this condition.
3. Cancer Recurrence or Metastasis: Though rare, breast cancer can return in the chest wall (local recurrence) or spread to other organs (metastasis). Regular follow-ups help detect any issues early.
How to Monitor Your Health After Mastectomy?
Ways to monitor your health after mastectomy are:
1. Follow-Up Appointments
Attend all scheduled check-ups with your oncologist.
Routine mammograms or MRIs may still be needed for the remaining breast (if only one was removed).
2. Self-Examinations
Check the mastectomy area, armpit, and collarbone for new lumps or changes.
Report any unusual findings to your doctor.
3. Managing Lymphedema
Avoid heavy lifting or tight clothing on the affected side.
Gentle exercises and compression sleeves can help reduce swelling.
4. Healthy Lifestyle Choices
Balanced diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
Regular exercise: Helps with recovery and reduces lymphoedema risk.
Stress management: Yoga, meditation, or support groups can help emotional well-being.
When to Seek Immediate Medical Help?
Consult your doctor immediately if you experience:
A new, hard lump near the surgical site.
Severe swelling, redness, or fever (signs of infection).
Persistent pain that worsens over time.
Shortness of breath or bone pain (possible metastasis).
Early detection of any issue improves treatment success.
Conclusion
A mastectomy is a major step in breast cancer treatment, but staying vigilant about your health afterward is essential. While most post-surgery symptoms are normal, knowing the warning signs helps ensure timely care. If you have concerns or notice unusual changes, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider.
Consult Top Breast Surgeon
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Tips
Dr. Anup Dhir
Plastic Surgeon
38 Years • MBBS MS (General Surgery) MCh (Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery) FECSM (Fellow of the European Committee of Sexual Medicine). Senior Consultant- Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery.
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
Dr. M S Senthil Kumar
Endocrine And Breast Surgeon
30 Years • MBBS, MS, MCh (Endocrine)
Chennai
Apollo First Med Hospitals P H Road, Chennai
Dr. Amit Choraria
Surgical Oncologist
18 Years • MBBS, MS (Surgery) Fellow, Surgical Oncology, Tata Medical Center (FSO) Fellow, European Board of Surgery (Surgical Oncology) (FEBS) Fellow, Minimal Access Surgery (FMAS) Fellow, Indian Association of Gastrointestinal Endosurgeons (FIAGES) UICC Fellow, Royal Marsden NHS, London, UK Visiting Scholar, Plastic Reconstructive Surgery, CGMH, Taiwan Fellow, Robotic Surgical Oncology, Vattikuti Foundation, USA
Kolkata
Apollo Multispeciality Hospitals , Kolkata, Kolkata
(50+ Patients)
Dr. Sudip Roy
General and Laparoscopic Surgeon
33 Years • MBBS, MS (General Surgery), DA, FRCS - General Surgery (RCPS , Glasgow)
Kolkata
Apollo Multispeciality Hospitals , Kolkata, Kolkata
(50+ Patients)
Dr. Aniket Dave
Plastic Surgeon
8 Years • MBBS, MS (General Surgery), MCh (Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery)
Ahmedabad
Apollo Hospitals - Gandhinagar, Ahmedabad, Ahmedabad
Consult Top Breast Surgeon
Dr. Anup Dhir
Plastic Surgeon
38 Years • MBBS MS (General Surgery) MCh (Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery) FECSM (Fellow of the European Committee of Sexual Medicine). Senior Consultant- Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery.
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
Dr. M S Senthil Kumar
Endocrine And Breast Surgeon
30 Years • MBBS, MS, MCh (Endocrine)
Chennai
Apollo First Med Hospitals P H Road, Chennai
Dr. Amit Choraria
Surgical Oncologist
18 Years • MBBS, MS (Surgery) Fellow, Surgical Oncology, Tata Medical Center (FSO) Fellow, European Board of Surgery (Surgical Oncology) (FEBS) Fellow, Minimal Access Surgery (FMAS) Fellow, Indian Association of Gastrointestinal Endosurgeons (FIAGES) UICC Fellow, Royal Marsden NHS, London, UK Visiting Scholar, Plastic Reconstructive Surgery, CGMH, Taiwan Fellow, Robotic Surgical Oncology, Vattikuti Foundation, USA
Kolkata
Apollo Multispeciality Hospitals , Kolkata, Kolkata
(50+ Patients)
Dr. Sudip Roy
General and Laparoscopic Surgeon
33 Years • MBBS, MS (General Surgery), DA, FRCS - General Surgery (RCPS , Glasgow)
Kolkata
Apollo Multispeciality Hospitals , Kolkata, Kolkata
(50+ Patients)
Dr. Aniket Dave
Plastic Surgeon
8 Years • MBBS, MS (General Surgery), MCh (Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery)
Ahmedabad
Apollo Hospitals - Gandhinagar, Ahmedabad, Ahmedabad
