Breast Specislist, Surgery Appointment.

Hi Kazza, these are difficult choices to make and all you can do is listen to your surgeon's advice and go with what you are comfortable with. My mum had a wide local excision, radiotherapy and hormone therapy and she has been cancer free for over 15 years.

However, I'm a bit like Kazzi in having to deal with the goalposts being shifted at each turn. I had initially opted for a lumpectomy but unfortunately the surgery turned up another 2 tumours (ductal and lobular) and the first one was more widespread than initially thought so I ended up with a mastectomy. I also had to have radiation (as well as chemo and Herceptin) and am now on hormone therapy. I have just passed my 3rd year anniversary (yay!) having had a successful reconstruction last year, which has really been the turning point for me in my recovery. 

I hope that all goes well for you and your path is as smooth as possible. Don't be afraid to reach out for support, we are all here to try and help. Best wishes, Jane xx

Hi Kazza,

I can understand your concerns about surgery at this time.  I'm officially four weeks post diagnosis. 

Four weeks ago I was offered a choice of mastectomy or lumpectomy/sentinel node biopsy.  My first thoughts were that mastectomy was 'too radical' for something so small, so I offered for the lumpectomy.  Pathology results showed a tumour bigger/more irregular than expected - 40mm mucinous with DCIS in tissue margins.  It came as quite a shock to say the least and I had a re-excision.  With tissue margins still showing up DCIS in some areas and considering I really didn't have much more boob to remove, I had a third surgery last Tuesday, mastectomy.  

I feel fortunate that I was offered the choice. In my case, I chose not to have immediate reconstruction as my breast was so inflamed, didn't want more complications to delay chemo (which I'll need) plus there is still a possibility that I may need radiotherapy to axillary region. (My reconstruction will be a 50th birthday present to myself in a couple of year's time)

I felt comfortable knowing that my surgeon was consulting with other surgeons, pathologists, radiation oncologists in their team to make recommendations as to further surgery and treatment. 

From what I've read, everyone's breast cancer is different and recommendations are given to you for your cancer which will be different to others.

I'm trying to cope with a changed body.  And maybe one day, I'll love my scar, but right now, finding that to be a bit difficult.

I've been on this network regularly reading other posts and found it to be invaluable for the advice, support and encouragement from those who have gone through it.  The first month is truly a roller coaster ride. It's only since coming home from hospital yesterday, that I feel I'm finally getting somewhere along my 'journey'. I visit my surgeon next Thursday for the drain to be removed hopefully and the remaining pathology results. 

Nurses have been fantastic with organising my care kit and advice.  The next stage is arranging a prosthesis and some nice looking bras (there are some out there!) from the experts (good reason to go shopping with a friend).

I hope my story has helped. 

All the best with your surgery and keep in touch on your progress.

Karen (Kazzi) xx

Hi Cazza

I think trust the Drs.  They know what they're doing.  You really don't want it back and everything helps.  I'm on femara for next 10 years and if it stops it coming back that's ok! It's the only way I can think to look at it!  All the best with surgery!  Lx 

Hi it is always good to know what is ahead so you can get used to what is going to happen. Rest up for your surgery and what will follow, one day at a time

 

Hi Kazza, I think you are right to trust the surgeon, they are the experts. I was given the choice of lumpectomy or mastectomy, the surgeon was confident he could get both tumors with clear margins and he came through. I know it's not always the way and sometimes they just can't get those margins, but I still have 2 breasts and I'm very happy with the way things turned out. All the best for your surgery, keep in touch and let us know how you go, 

Hazel xx