Sentinel node advice

HI water_nymph, the doc who did mine was really gentle and hardly hurt at all so I hope you have a similar experience. (Mind you he was young and rather good looking so that helped!) Good luck with your surgery on Friday. xxCath

Thank you both for your stories. My anxiety is much abated. I think it's just the awful idea of an injection into your nipple area, let alone twice! Thanks again xx

AllyJay, I prefer to watch blood tests too! 

I had a bilateral mastectomy with node clearance on the left side in April. To tell the truth, I was in more of a state anticipating that injection into the nipple than the surgery itself. I was in full panic mode....racing heart, dry mouth, ringing in the ears, the full Monte. I find it easier to actually watch blood being taken and so on, as if I close my eyes or turn away, the needle comes as a surprise. I watched that needle approach my quivering nipple, and anticipated the very worst. Surprise surprise, I can honestly say I hardly felt it at all. The initial sting as it went in, but less pain than the flu shot, blood being taken, and most certainly less painful than a cannula being inserted.

I had a sentinel node biopsy LHS whilst stung a little the staff were great and was ok. I too was worried it would be dreadful from what I'd read but honestly was ok. Have faith in your treatment team - they have your best interests at heart and will do their utmost to look after you -they have done this many times before and know you will feel trepidation. Always remember it is momentary and many of us have had it done - you will be fine.