In this article, Active’s Breast Cancer physiotherapists discuss how scar tissue can cause discomfort after breast cancer surgery, but it is an issue that is generally straightforward to manage.
Find more general information about in our Breast Cancer Care and Physiotherapy at Active article.
Find more information on our Physiotherapy Services for Breast Cancer.
Scar tightness can be uncomfortable and restrict your movement.
After breast cancer surgery, whether you have had a lumpectomy, mastectomy, or lymph node removal, you will most likely have one or more scars as part of your healing. While scarring is a natural part of recovery, stiff or tight scar tissue can affect how well your body moves, especially your shoulder, chest, and arm.
Many people find that even once the scar looks healed on the outside, it can still feel tight, tender, or restrictive underneath.
How Scar Tissue Affects Movement
Scar tissue can:
- Make it harder to lift your arm overhead or reach across your body
- Pull on surrounding skin and tissue, creating a sensation of tightness
- Cause pain or sensitivity, especially during stretching or exercise
- Contribute to shoulder and neck stiffness if left untreated
This is why gentle, early physiotherapy support can make such a big difference.
How Physiotherapy Can Help
At Active, our experienced physiotherapists working with patients after breast cancer surgery can use gentle techniques to support scar healing and restore your natural movement. Your physiotherapist will review your wound and will advise you as to when it is appropriate to start any scar tissue massage including guiding you as to ‘how to’ look after your scar.
These may include:
- Education
We’ll show you how to care for your scar at home with confidence, including what’s safe and when to start. - Scar massage and soft tissue techniques
To reduce stiffness, improve flexibility, and prevent adhesions under the skin. - Shoulder and chest mobility exercises
To restore range of motion and reduce pulling. - Postural advice
Helping you feel comfortable moving, lifting, and returning to your daily routine.
You Can Also Improve Cording at Home
Here are some simple steps your physiotherapist may recommend:
- Once your physiotherapist has checked that your wound is healed enough and that it’s safe to do so, they’ll show you how to do your own gentle circular massage around the scar
- You’ll be able to practice light reach-and-stretch exercises
- Keep your skin well moisturised and protected from sun exposure
- Avoid holding your breath when stretching. It is important to breathe gently into the movement
Everyone’s body heals differently. If you are unsure, our physiotherapists are always happy to guide you through it. You can book an appointment for a review of your scar or any other concerns following breast cancer surgery either by calling our practice, or booking online here.
Book an Appointment
Whether you are preparing for surgery, recovering post-treatment, or ready to rebuild your strength, our team is here for you. Referrals are not required to access physiotherapy, however, we work closely with many established surgeons and oncologists and we are happy to receive an overview of your diagnosis and plan so that we can coordinate care.
Contact us today to schedule an in-person or online consultation and begin your recovery journey with confidence.