I also had a port put in. Mine was put in at the same time as my mastectomy was done. It was a small incision and healed very quickly. It was just a bit weird feeling and seeing this lump in, but no pain or problems. I just had to be careful in the shower not to push too hard on it while washing. That made me nervous. Overall it is awesome to have for all the bloodwork and treatment access. I have had mine in since my May 31st surgery. I will get it out after Herceptin is complete in early July.
Do not fear!

Your port will definitely become your friend!

It is generally placed on the opposite side of where your cancer was. High in your chest, but out of line of a bra strap.

The area might be a little tender for a couple of days, but that should go away.
Mine didn’t hurt. Generally a very simple procedure.

You can use a prescription Emela cream to numb the area, on infusion days or whenever it is used ( you can have them use it for blood draws, or to insert dye for an ECHO or other test) . Oh, I do recall hearing that some women on here weren’t able to use their port for blood draws because they had their blood draws at a clinic that didn’t access ports. Anyway, the cream helps, but I forgot to use it a couple of times and it was just basically a pinch like feeling when they accessed it.

Tell us what some of your questions or fears about the port might be?

Oh no! I hate that! Feel like a pin cushion when I'm done and then look like a drug user with all the bruising. I have learned to tell them up front that I am a hard poke and the more they try the worse it gets. I'm looking forward to my port!

I learned the hard way that only registered nurses were allowed to access the port. Somwhen I went for my MUGA scan they tried unsuccessfully poke my arm about. .10 times.to get the dye inserted. They finally called a nurse down from the chemo lab.

@A MyBCTeam Member. I had my first round of chemo through an IV in my hand and then had the port installed and used for the next several rounds. IMHO, the port makes everything so much easier and comfortable! You may have a couple of days of tenderness following installation but it’s well worth it! Hugs!

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