further surgery
I've just had my follow up appointment after my lumpectomy and my surgeon has told me that a small amount of cancer cells were found in the lymph glands removed.
Both the surgeon and the radiologis...
Forum Discussion
Hi Lesann, I have only recently had to make the same decision and opted to have the axillary clearance. I too was worried about the potential of Lymphoedema. To assist me in making my decision I spoke to my surgeon, medical and radio oncologists as well as attending a lymphoedema clinic at the Mater Hospital (Newcastle). All the doctors had recommended the axillary clearance as it means that I may not have to have radiotherapy post chemo (start that in a couple of weeks, oh joy!!!), however it was the physio who ran the clinic that really made my final decision easier. If I had the AC and had lymphoema it could be managed although a pain in the butt, however for me personally the risk of cancer spreading from the lymph nodes was higher and the ramifications that would entail versus lymphoedema made my choice in the end quite easy.
At 44 with a young family I still have a lot of living to do, and whilst I currently feel as though I have come out on the losing end of a street knife fight ( 1 week post surgery and AC has been more painful that my mastectomy), I don't regret my decision in any way.
All I can suggest is ask the questions of the surgeon and the rest of your medical team, but if possible speak with a physio/massage therapist who is dealing with this on a daily basis as well. You may find that some of the changes you have to make to your lifestyle to potenially prevent/manage lymphoedema you are already doing.
All the best
Therese