It usually lasts for several months after your operation but may sometimes be permanent. Special exercises from your doctor or physiotherapist will help you to move your shoulder more quickly. Arm movement soon after your operation is important. It can occur at any time in any women who have had some lymph nodes removed. Chapter 10 tells you how to help prevent lymphoedema and how it is treated.
Many women notice a change in their balance after their operation.
This is because of the loss of the weight of your breast. To prevent posture and back problems occurring, you can be specially fitted with a prosthesis that is weighted to match the weight of the breast that was removed. Chapter 9 provides further information about prostheses. Some women feel distressed, anxious or depressed before, during and after treatment. These feelings are normal.