Just diagnosed

I know I had a good handle on it before my breast surgeon appointment which meant I was able take in what he said. Not just be at the shock stage. Reading helped me enormously....mostly. 

Thanks for your comments back and you're right -  the bcna resources have been amazing. I think I have read - but definitely not fully absorbed - almost everything that this site has made available. I was doing a far bit of homework before I got my results so I had some clue about 'what next'. Which was good. Because the GP I saw told me nothing about the pathology report that confirmed my worst fears. Her only piece of advice was not to go home and 'Dr Google'. I wanted to shout at her that in the absence of any morsel of information from her I really had no choice. Nor did she direct me to a terrific resource such as this, which I found in the days following my CNB. Such a lost opportunity and terrible way to have cancer entire your life.

Hi and welcome. Looks like the ladies have it covered. I thought you might find this helpful in regards to pathology results.

https://www.bcna.org.au/resource/fact-sheet-breast-cancer-pathology/

Hi Claudia,  Welcome, you'll get some incredibly helpful information from the beautiful ladies on here. As far as the lumpectomy goes it can depend on the size of the tumour v size of breast as to how cosmetically good the lumpectomy will be and if it can be done. Your surgeon will discuss all that with you.

 I had a lumpectomy (25mm stage 2 tumour vs 14 C breasts) and level 2 lymph node clearance. (5/24 postive) + 6mths chemo + 6 weeks radiation.  I've just passed the 12 month mark from surgery and all my scans (mammogram, u/sound and MRI,bone scan) have come back clear.  My surgeon was fantastic (he operates at Ipswich both public and private. I'm not sure about Brisbane though.  I did have to go back the week after the original surgery to have a little more removed as when the pathology came back the margins were very close and he wasn't happy leaving them at only 2mm clearance. The scarring from the axillary clearance has faded into hardly noticeable and the breast scar is fading out as well.  There is still  a small seroma left and the skin is a little less soft from the radiation but its improving all the time and is nearly back to normal colour.  I am really happy with the outcome.  Nobody can tell that anything has been done to me from the outside, I can wear all my normal bras (have to be careful where the wire sits though some are better than others).  Even with no shirt on there is only about a 5mm difference in size.  Not bad considering there was nearly 150 grams removed.  I just have one slightly perkier boob than the other. LOL  Absolutely happy with my decision to go the lumpectomy!  All the best.  Message me if you want to talk or the Doctors details.

hi @Claudia21

have you been in touch with a breast care nurse yet ? 
here is a link to find them in your area .
https//www.mcgrathfoundation.com.au/OurMission/OurNurses/FindANurse.aspx

I had a bilateral mastectomy so can't answer the lumpectomy questions, I am sure once members read your post as the afternoon continues you will have more replies from those closer to you and able to answer those questions. 

SoldierCrab

Hi @claudia21 and welcome. It is a daunting and lonely time early on but you'll feel more in control and get more determined once you start treatment. I had a mastectomy, chemo and rads, so can't help you with your lumpectomy question. Your breast surgeon or nurse should be able to answer questions or some other lovely ladies may jump on and share their experiences. This is a great place for questions and clarity!

@Claudia21  welcome to the forum!  It is a place none of us really want to be but it certainly gives us comfort at any time of day or night.  We know when we are on here either reading a post, writing a post or responding to a post, we all get it!  We understand where you are at and your curiosity of what is coming next!
 
If you use this link you can then click on the type that is relevant to you - this is information that is available on the BCNA website  https://www.bcna.org.au/understanding-breast-cancer/types-of-breast-cancer/

As to surgeon, I'm not from Brisbane but I am sure as they day goes on someone from your end of the country will come along with advice.

In the meantime have you received your My Journey Kit?  It is a wealth of information for now and as you settle into treatment and or surgery it is a guide to help you along, as well as keepings notes, track of appointments, expenses and so it goes  
https://www.bcna.org.au/understanding-breast-cancer/my-journey-kit/

Wishing you wellness as you navigate your way through.  Take care x