I had a lumpectomy in October and slnb off which they took two and both were positive. I now have to go back in next week for a full clearance and I’m terrified of what they may find this time. The lump that was removed cleanly they said, was 16mm (not 25mm) as had been stated before the operation. I recovered very quickly from the lumpectomy op but worried this one will be much worse, they are going in through the same scar from the slnb which has been healing really well. I am in total shock from the past two months I only went out for a routine mammogram. I was just wondering if anyone has had a similar experience.
Sending hugs to everyone
It’s no surprise that you’re in total shock, I’m so sorry to hear what you’re going through.
I am sure someone will be able to share their experience with you. In the meantime please know that our nurses are here for you any time, here on the forum on Ask our Nurses your questions or over the phone 0808 800 6000.
Sending you love and all the best for your surgery,
Very similarly to yourself I was diagnosed in February unexpectedly. Had an initial op in March, then had to return for a node clearance in April. Was very concerned about spread and the increased risk of lymphodema, but my results came back with only a couple of stray cancer cells, and I have recovered well from both operations with no sign of complications. I did choose to complete 6 rounds of chemotherapy, however, to be more certain there were no rogue cancer cells about.
Take one thing at a time, and try not to worry (though I know that’s easier said than done).
Hi yes its frustrating that they are taking your lymph out, but having been through surgery once you are actually stronger in knowing the procedure for surgery and i would say try and rest this time, in the long run going through the same scar was not a problem for me and i doubt it will be for you, just remember to keep it moisturized, i use E45 daily. One good thing for me after 12 months no hair has yet grown back under that arm. so the electric shaver bought as advised has not yet been taken out of its box.
Pick a date in the future and look forward to it, you are a women and already know yourself to be strong, and you will get through this. there are many others having gone before you. i found talking to friends and others beneficial as a kind of therapy which helped. getting out in the fresh air - even in the rain with good waterproofs and pets help you through then you have the breast care forum plus macmillan support when you might need at 1.30 am. keep in touch and ask away all those who reply are there for you, love hugs, Moonsox
Thank you Moonsox for your reply, can I ask when you started moisturising your scars, I’ve left everything alone up till now, it’s five weeks since original op. I hope your doing well now xx
Hi I went through something very similar. Lumpectomy back in March, clear margins but found in only node they took.
Returned for full node clearance start of May but cancelled has I caused havoc in theatre with an allergic reaction to antibiotics, rare apparently in my case.
Back again start of July, 14 nodes removed, was told to wait 3 weeks for results not 2 has surgeons were striking.
On day 10 surgeon rang to say results had just in, thankfully all clear. I really struggled with this op had bounced back with the first. I hated and resented the drain which I caught on the door and yanked it out on day 6. This led to slow healing process but got there eventually.
I tried to run before I could walk and didn’t listen to my body. I did too much. Loads of Aveeno daily and movement is about back to where it was, lifting weights daily.
Onco type came back as 6 so advised radiotherapy, provisional date to start 18/12 5 days. On Letzoral and calcium tablets. Initial discomfort. BCN has booked me in for bone scan and appointment to speak to oncologist about acid injections.
Look after yourself and don’t rush recovery, terrifying time I know.
Go steady and take care of you x
Hi CHillout365
I started the day after, and actually moisturize them twice a day, when i get up and before i go to bed, they are so soft now, 12 months down the line. I use E45 which is the softest and kindest body lotion, i get mine on prescription, I also use Sanex arm deodorant as advised in one of the many macmiullan guidance notebooks, which eventually reduces you underarm hair and is safe when having chemotherapy because it doesn’t contain alluminium. its also cheaper being only £1 a pot.
I’m at the long term drug stage -Letrozole and the Abemaciclib, one suposedly constipates you the other causing diarhoea, fortunately one balances out the other, if you get to the 50mg stage. Keep talking and conversing this helps you get through, and plan for events to come, visualising the good about life and you are a winner.
Love and hugs, and ask anything, love and hugs M xxx
