Hi JLO1
As arpie points out, you have lots of lymph nodes. The big question is how many are you prepared to have removed? And how prepared are you for the risk of lymphoedema? 13 years ago, standard practice was to have lymph nodes removed and also chemo. A biopsy showed I had one malignant node, from several visibly enlarged ones. All the iffy ones were removed, and than another layer in case of spread, 17 in all. I still have no issue with the procedure, it was eminently sensible. I had then six months of chemo as a 'sweeper' of anything else that might be hanging around. So far, it's worked well!
But the more lymph nodes you lose, the higher the risk of lymphoedema. Some people get a kind of temporary lymphoedema, as the body adjusts. Some people can get lymphoedema from their surgery up to 15 years after the surgery! I got the permanent kind, five months after surgery. It's very manageable, but I'd still prefer not to have it!
There have been so many improvements in cancer treatment over the last 20 years or so, but it's worth remembering that for many, treatment is still a series of trade offs. I have one long term side effect from chemo (I had no fatigue or nausea, worked throughout) and one from surgery. But overall I have been well and live a normal life. I consider that a worthwhile trade off. With better targetted chemo, as is now possible, it might, just might, have been one long term side effect.
Best wishes, whatever your ultimate decision.
