Biopsy Scar Tissue?

i had an excisional (left) breast biopsy with
needle/wire localization 6/27/05. today is
7/24/05. when i raise my left arm above my
head, there is what looks and feels like a
thick cord going from the bottom of the scar
(at the base of my breast) down about 3-4
inches to the bottom of my rib cage. it is in an
exact line. i went to my doctor and he said it
was scar tissue. really? i understand about
the scar tissue in and around the incision,
but this "cord" (scar tissue) hurts when my
arm is raised and it hurts all the way down to
my rib cage. my rib cage feels bruised. i just
want to know if it really could be scar tissue
3-4 inches away from the actual incision.
thank you.

So glad to find this website and your message. I have developed the same thing and I am scared. I go for my followup in February first one since radiation and lumpectomy. PLease email me with any thoughts.
Jennifer

hello jennifer,

i can't say that our circumstances are/were
the same. i had exploratory surgery and they
found no cancer present. your surgery and
subsequent radiation was much more
radical than my surgery and recovery. i hope
this finds you well and healthy through and
through!

the problem i experienced (the cord) really
must have been scar tissue. it did finally go
away, although when it was there it really
freaked me out. with every week that passed
and probably 3 months after my surgery, it did
go away - completely.

i wish you well in your recovery and in finding
the answers you are looking for. BE WELL!

I have had two pelvic surgeries,intestinal bisection, and insertion
and removal of a port-a-catheter in my treatment of cervical
cancer (now in remission). Pain in my shoulder has been
persistent, especially originating from the tiny port incision on
my neck. I have had a good deal of success working with a
physical therapist who does myofascial release of scar tissue. This
involves a deep, slow stretching of the tissues to break the
adhesions and release pressure and pain. Not entirely
comfortable, it is by no means a massage, but the temporary
discomfort is worthwhile over time. It is remarkable how the
fascia in one area (say your abdomen can cause pain in the
shoulder area due to the pulling of the tissues. While this is not a
cure, it has made the pain more manageable. I recommend
discussing this with your doctor if other treatments are not
working.