Forum Discussion

narsan's avatar
narsan
Member
9 years ago

More information,

Have had wide excision under ultra sound to remove 13mm tumour (low grade), all good receptors, no cancer in centinal node.  Some DCIS showed up on outside edge of tissue removed, so surgeon decided to go back in and take more tissue. That came back with DCIS scattered through it.  My choice is to have radiation and take Arimidex, or to have a mastectomy. Bit of a tough decision, as there is no real guarantee that the DCIS will break out (and as explained to me by surgeon, many women are out there walking around with this in their breasts and don't know). As I live alone  and struggled a bit with the last two operations (Husband passed away last year), am wondering just how long has it taken for recovery for most of the ladies out there who have had a similar experience.  Narsan

dcis

5 Replies

  • nikkid's avatar
    nikkid
    Member
    9 years ago

    Hi Narsan,

    I wish you well. Tomorrow I'm 4 weeks post-mastectomy and each day it's getting better.

    Taker care and be kind to yourself - listen to your body...but remember to move :).

    I found my Zonta pillow was a great help and a large cotton scarf to drape over my shoulders at nighttime (they'll strap these inflatable anti-DVT thingys on you each night) were helpful...but best of all was seeing this as one stage in my getting well again.

    Let me know if there's anything more I can help you with

    Nikki x

  • narsan's avatar
    narsan
    Member
    9 years ago

    Hi Nikkid,

    Have listened to your advice as well as Specialist, Radiologist, and GP, and all have advised me to have a mastectomy, so I am booked in for 26th May. Am going away for a short break, and then just want to get it over and done with. Narsan.

     

  • nikkid's avatar
    nikkid
    Member
    9 years ago

    No worries Narsan,

    It isn't easy...but time does heal. If you need any more advice pls let me know

    Nikki xxx

  • narsan's avatar
    narsan
    Member
    9 years ago

    Hi Nikki, Thanks for the info, I really appreciate it, and it feels very reassuring to talk with someone who has had a similar experience. Narsan

  • nikkid's avatar
    nikkid
    Member
    9 years ago

    Hi Narsan,

    I had a vertical skin sparing mastectomy of my left breast 3 weeks ago - same diagnosis...DCIS and some micro invasive cancer (NO symptoms - no lumps or bumps...nothing detectable via ultrasound or palpation...nothing obvious except via the 'turning 50' mammogram!)....it was scattered enough that the surgeon urged me to opt for the mastectomy.

    The pathology results after the operation showed clear margins and no cancer in the sentinel node...so I'm glad I opted for the mastectomy.

    It's just over 3 weeks ago and every day is a better day. There have been periods of intense discomfort - but nothing I couldn't handle. I've been walking since the day of the operation and am now doing 30 mins on the treadmill so am pleased with progress.

    These decisions are personal, but tbh I'm glad I made the decision to go through with the op. The relief I feel now is amazing.

    Thinking of you

    Nikki