Hello, I had my follow up appointment for post lumpectomies. Unfortunately margins not clear. The surgeon gave me two options another lumpectomy with radiation and tamoxifen for 5 years or a massectomy with reconstruction and no radiation or tamoxifen. As of now, no need for chemotherapy. I am so scared of the massectomy. Can anyone help me. They made an appointment with a plastic surgeon. I don’t know what to do I am in shock still. Please any advice will be greatly appreciated.
I wish I had been given that option.
@A MyBCTeam Member Thank you for replying to me. Do you regret your massectomy?
I had a lumpectomy with my first spot 4 years ago. I was under heavy surveillance and was recommended to get a mastectomy due to a gene mutation (no cancer detected). Once I had the mastectomy they found 2 cancers in the one breast that hadn't been detected. I think each case is different but I'd be happy to share my experiences with each. My surgery was on 4/1 so am well recovered and lots to share.
I had a lumpectomy with unclear margins so I had to have surgery again. Your feelings are totally normal. Like you, I was so frieghtened, couldn't sleep, eat or actually do much of anything. I finally tried to embrace the situation and get over myself. I knew what to do with the second lumpectomy so that was helpful. I finally decided that now, new bigger margins would give me a better chance for no reoccurrence . The second surgery was so much easier than the first. I can't help you with the mastectomy. Margins were clear the second surgery. So happy that I finally embraced the situation and relaxed a bit. It was still nerve-wracking but so much easier. You will be fine. Promise. Wishing you the very best. Stay in touch so we know how you're doing. Much love and endless hugs!!!