Surgery options & decisions
I have just been recently diagnosed with early breast cancer, stage 1, grade 1. I had my first appointment, the team were great with explaining everything though I must say it’s been very overwhelming...
Forum Discussion
Hi @Ella123, welcome 😊 As you’ve already seen you will find loads of support and information here.
I was diagnosed in July 2016 from a routine mammogram. Like you, my cancer was grade 1, stage 1 and 12mm. Nodes clear.
My GP ordered an MRI so my surgeon knew the other breast was clear and had the size and location of the cancer confirmed before surgery.
I guess my choice was easier than some. I’m only a small B cup so a lumpectomy would have left me quite lopsided and I was worried I may not get a clear margin with not having a lot of breast tissue to work with. I would have needed radiation and to be honest my mind was reeling and I just wanted it to be over with.
I chose a nipple sparing mastectomy with an immediate implant. I am completely happy with my decision but like all bc surgery it came with it’s own set of issues! Other than the mastectomy surgery pain, the implant goes under the pec muscle so there was some discomfort and tightness for a few months while it stretched. My fake breast look exactly like my real one but is completely numb and a few degrees cooler. I don’t really notice it anymore though.
The decisions can be overwhelming, so much information and so many options!
Read our experiences but remember that we are all unique and even the same surgery can have different outcomes.
Be guided by your specialist team and go with your gut.
good luck with your decision. Jane x
I was diagnosed in July 2016 from a routine mammogram. Like you, my cancer was grade 1, stage 1 and 12mm. Nodes clear.
My GP ordered an MRI so my surgeon knew the other breast was clear and had the size and location of the cancer confirmed before surgery.
I guess my choice was easier than some. I’m only a small B cup so a lumpectomy would have left me quite lopsided and I was worried I may not get a clear margin with not having a lot of breast tissue to work with. I would have needed radiation and to be honest my mind was reeling and I just wanted it to be over with.
I chose a nipple sparing mastectomy with an immediate implant. I am completely happy with my decision but like all bc surgery it came with it’s own set of issues! Other than the mastectomy surgery pain, the implant goes under the pec muscle so there was some discomfort and tightness for a few months while it stretched. My fake breast look exactly like my real one but is completely numb and a few degrees cooler. I don’t really notice it anymore though.
The decisions can be overwhelming, so much information and so many options!
Read our experiences but remember that we are all unique and even the same surgery can have different outcomes.
Be guided by your specialist team and go with your gut.
good luck with your decision. Jane x