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I am due to have a mastectomy next Friday and am so scared of the whole procedure and not waking up from the anaesthetic. I never imagined i would have breast cancer, have breast fed three children, exercised every day and eaten healthy. I am worried about the sentinel node thing, as my pathology from core biopsy says that there is no lymphovascular involvement, but the breast surgeon says that they still have to look at the nodes. It's Stage 2 Grade 2 and I am terrified that it has spread. The ultrasound said that my lymph nodes are not involved, then why and what is the significance of the sentinel node and if it's involved does it mean that I have secondary cancer somewhere as well. Why do I have to wait for two weeks after my mastectomy before I can start treatment? It's invasive lobular with high oestrogen and progesterone levels. Why can't I begin treatment earlier or is this normal length of time?

I am due to have a mastectomy next Friday and am so scared of the whole procedure and not waking up from the anaesthetic. I never imagined i would have breast cancer, have breast fed three children, exercised every day and eaten healthy. I am worried about the sentinel node thing, as my pathology from core biopsy says that there is no lymphovascular involvement, but the breast surgeon says that they still have to look at the nodes. It's Stage 2 Grade 2 and I am terrified that it has spread. The ultrasound said that my lymph nodes are not involved, then why and what is the significance of the sentinel node and if it's involved does it mean that I have secondary cancer somewhere as well. Why do I have to wait for two weeks after my mastectomy before I can start treatment? It's invasive lobular with high oestrogen and progesterone levels. Why can't I begin treatment earlier or is this normal length of time?

Hi Angie. I think the problem is that most surgeons don't explain that pain and swelling is normal - I was in the unfortunate position of seeing my sister in terrible pain with swelling etc, so I knew that it wasn't just me. Don't be in a rush to go back to your normal activities - just do what feels right. I found that If I became impatient and did more than was sensible, I paid for it in pain the next day. Be kind to yourself and go at your own pace - that's the only thing that matters. Sending hugs, Xxx Jeanine

Hi Angie. I think the problem is that most surgeons don't explain that pain and swelling is normal - I was in the unfortunate position of seeing my sister in terrible pain with swelling etc, so I knew that it wasn't just me. Don't be in a rush to go back to your normal activities - just do what feels right. I found that If I became impatient and did more than was sensible, I paid for it in pain the next day. Be kind to yourself and go at your own pace - that's the only thing that matters. Sending hugs, Xxx Jeanine

thanks Jeanine,

That is very reassurring to know I am not the only one who still has pain, stiffness and swelling at this stage. I am getting some relief from targin (slow release) and I have seen a lymphatic physio who has shown me how to do lymphatic drainage/massage.

I finally get to see the oncologist (for the first time) next week. It will be good to know what will be happening next. I hate not knowing - can't plan anything and don't know when I might be able to go back to work (or whether I might need to change to part time work).

Hope your recovery is going well....

Regards & Best Wishes,

Angie

Thanks Janey!

Hope your clots are under control now.

I am SO looking forward to not having to sleep on my back all the time.

Good luck with the rest of your treatment.

Angie

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Hi Robyn

Thanks for replying

Good luck with the rest of your treatment.

 

 

 

Angie

Hi angie,I only had a mastectomy on my right breast.however,I am 3 weeks after surgery tomorrow.i have some tightness,under my arm,but I have been doing my exercises every day.Even when it hurts I still try,and I have been walking a lot.But I am sure a double mastectomy has its own unique problems.As for the oncologist,I can't really say.i saw mine 2 weeks after surgery,but we live in inner west Sydney.Robyn