Decisions, Decisions, Decisions
Well, I've been reading posts for quite a few weeks now, keep thinking I should post but don't quite make it. Initial diagnosis post breast screen mammogram, call back & biopsy late May, Grade 1 invas...
Forum Discussion
Hi @bronni, sorry that you find yourself here, but welcome. You are in good company and as you've already seen there is a huge amount if information and support.
I was recalled from a routine mammogram one year ago today. I had a deep core biopsy and was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma on 20 July 16.
I had a great surgeon who gave me various options but it can be overwhelming when faced with choices in something we know little about. My decision was reasonably easy. I'm small breasted so a lumpectomy wouldn't have been good cosmetically but more important, I was concerned about getting clear margins. My cancer was 12mm.
I chose a left nipple sparing mastectomy with an immediate silicone implant. I had an MRI before seeing the surgeon on the recommendation of my GP. This was to make sure there was only the one cancer and to check my right breast.
Because my right breast was healthy the surgeon said I had the same risk as the general population in getting cancer on that side. This percentage lowered further as I'm now taking a hormone blocker.
So my cancer ended up grade 1, stage 1, ER+ & PR+ 100%, HER2-. 3 lymph nodes removed, all clear. Clear margins. Arimidex for 5-10 years.
I'm happy with my surgery decision and to have an immediate implant. My surgeon has done a great job in matching me up and the scar under my breast is barely visible. Although it responds to pressure there is no sensation in my nipple and 90% of my breast is numb but I have become used to it. Small price to pay!
12 months on and the implant has softened nicely and looks and feels almost like the real thing :)
You can also request to join the Choosing Breast Reconstruction group. There are photo stories of various types of reconstruction which may help you with your decision.
It's tough that your husband is not able to be here with you, but you are definitely not alone. We have all been where you are and are here to help. Wishing you all the best, Jane xx
I was recalled from a routine mammogram one year ago today. I had a deep core biopsy and was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma on 20 July 16.
I had a great surgeon who gave me various options but it can be overwhelming when faced with choices in something we know little about. My decision was reasonably easy. I'm small breasted so a lumpectomy wouldn't have been good cosmetically but more important, I was concerned about getting clear margins. My cancer was 12mm.
I chose a left nipple sparing mastectomy with an immediate silicone implant. I had an MRI before seeing the surgeon on the recommendation of my GP. This was to make sure there was only the one cancer and to check my right breast.
Because my right breast was healthy the surgeon said I had the same risk as the general population in getting cancer on that side. This percentage lowered further as I'm now taking a hormone blocker.
So my cancer ended up grade 1, stage 1, ER+ & PR+ 100%, HER2-. 3 lymph nodes removed, all clear. Clear margins. Arimidex for 5-10 years.
I'm happy with my surgery decision and to have an immediate implant. My surgeon has done a great job in matching me up and the scar under my breast is barely visible. Although it responds to pressure there is no sensation in my nipple and 90% of my breast is numb but I have become used to it. Small price to pay!
12 months on and the implant has softened nicely and looks and feels almost like the real thing :)
You can also request to join the Choosing Breast Reconstruction group. There are photo stories of various types of reconstruction which may help you with your decision.
It's tough that your husband is not able to be here with you, but you are definitely not alone. We have all been where you are and are here to help. Wishing you all the best, Jane xx