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A MyLungCancerTeam Member asked a question 💭
Owensboro, KY
June 26, 2025
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A MyLungCancerTeam Member

I had the upper right removed about 8 weeks ago via thoracotomy. I recovered just fine:)

June 26, 2025
MyLungCancerTeam

Yes, lobectomy (removal of a lung lobe) is actually the most common type of surgery used to treat non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This procedure can be performed on any lobe of either lung when there is a tumor present. Recovery from a lobectomy typically takes
- 5-7 days in hospital if done via thoracotomy Show Full Answer

Yes, lobectomy (removal of a lung lobe) is actually the most common type of surgery used to treat non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This procedure can be performed on any lobe of either lung when there is a tumor present. Recovery from a lobectomy typically takes:
- 5-7 days in hospital if done via thoracotomy (traditional open surgery)
- 4-5 days in hospital if done via VATS (minimally invasive)
- Up to 6 weeks of recovery time at home

During recovery, you may experience:
- Some shortness of breath
- Chest stiffness and swelling for about 6 weeks
- Fatigue for 1-2 months
- Temporary pain or discomfort at the incision site

June 26, 2025

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