Surgery

Hi Donna, I have been on this journey for just over a year now, but my first bit of surgery was in December 2010, and it involved a hook wire too. It was no where near as bad as what I had imagined. The hookwire was inserted with the help of an ultrasound, and this was on the morning of my lumpectomy surgery. The radiologist was very gentle, and first used local anaesthetic. He explained everything to me as he went, and with me being a nurse, I was very interested in watching the whole procedure. I could see the tumour on the screen, and could see the Dr advancing the wire to the lump, and then beyond it. Once in position, the wire that was still external to my skin was carefully coiled and then taped to my chest, and covered with a dressing pad. This didn't hurt me at all, and I found it very interesting. Once in theatre, the breast surgeon is able to carefully locate the tumour as it has been marked, by the wire. He can then cut the tumour out with a good safe margin. Without the wire to locate the right spot, it would be difficult to remove all the tumour and surrounding tissue. I also had a sentinel node biopsy with my lumpectomy. In the past year, I have also had a mastectomy and more nodes removed, due to bad pathology, chemotherapy, and 4 months ago I chose to have the other breast off as a precaution, and last week I had my final surgery to finalise my reconstruction. So, now 13 months later, I have survived cancer really well. My hair is regrowing, about 8cm long now, I have had tissue expanders first, and now silcone implants, and I am thrilled with the results. All the dressings came off today, and I now have my cleavage back, and 2 boobs that appear to be back to my pre cancer size of 14 B. I may or may not choose to have nipples made, but will at least have a nipple tattooed in the appropriate place. The year has gone quickly, and I am now ready to start living my life again. Good luck on Friday. Please come on here as often as you like, and rant and rave or what ever. Please keep us posted on your surgery and pathology. I will be thinking of you on Friday, and will pray that all goes really well. Love Chris xx