Hi everyone
I was diagnosed with Atypical Ductal Hyperplasia last September. Since then I have had an MRI/ultrasound and biopsy. The upshot of it all is that I have 9 cysts and 3 solid lumps which are causing my specialist concern, even though the biopsy was ok. I am on 3 monthly check-ups indefinitely and am likely to have more biopsies before the year is out.
I am seriously considering risk reducing surgery on both breasts. It is hard to cope at times, knowing that my breasts are so full of problems. I have also had a milk duct removed due to nipple discharge (benign).
Has anyone else been in this situation? I would be so grateful for any advice, particularly concerning the effects of surgery.
Even though I haven’t been diagnosed with cancer I feel my breasts are not my ‘friends’ anymore. In a way, I feel there is no choice for me and with two young children of 4 and 5 that I should do all I can to lower my risk. I am 32.
Thank you in advance.
F
Hi Fasfas
Welcome to the discussion forums, you are welcome to email our team of specialist nurses via our ‘Ask the nurse’ service for advice, you can find this service under the ‘Support for you’ tab at the top of this page, alternatively, you can call our helpline on 0808 800 6000 which open again in the morning from 9am until 5pm.
Best wishes
Katie
Hi
I am having prophylactic surgery and currently waiting for my second mastectomy and reconstruction. I can understand the difficult decision you are facing, I can’t, however, imagine facing 3 monthly check ups.
Do you have any family history of cancers and have you looked into the methods of reconstruction?
Jackie.
Hi Jackie
Thanks for your reply. We do have a fair amount of cancer in the family (mum died at 52) but not specifically breast cancer. It is more the other issues that are making me consider the op. As for methods of reconstruction, well I saw the breast care nurse on Monday and she talked about having an expandable implant which can be replaced later by the ‘teardrop’ shape. I didn’t realise there might be other options.
When are you having your next op? Can I ask why you didn’t have the surgery in one go? How are you recovering? Are you glad you made your decision?
Many thanks
Frances