Hi Viv, I had a lumpectomy and 3 sentinal nodes removed. I did have a brilliant surgeon. My surgeon used same incision for the lump to get to the 3 nodes she removed (on opposite sides of the breast). All in all 6 centimetres of breast was removed and you can hardly tell but luckily I got clear margins. I did not need a drain either, The pathology report indicated the lump was 3cm although 2 weeks prior to that when the pathologist did a core biopsy it indicated 1.8cm. So, they just don't know what they will find until they go in. You sound very positive and upbeat. That is a very good state of mind to go forward. Good luck and let us know how you go. Suex