Mine was Stage 2, and Grade 3 (aggressive) my surgery was about 3 weeks from diagnosis BUT that is because I took her first open slot. She reminded me more than once, if I needed more time to be certain of my decision, I could have a later date. So, being early stage, you have some wiggle room! Hugs!
April 7
Is two weeks too long to wait for lumpectomy and radiation therapy for Stage 1A IDC breast cancer?
Two weeks is generally not too long to wait for a lumpectomy for Stage 1A breast cancer. This is considered early-stage cancer, and a short wait for surgery scheduling is typically safe.
It's important to understand that Show Full Answer
Is two weeks too long to wait for lumpectomy and radiation therapy for Stage 1A IDC breast cancer?
Two weeks is generally not too long to wait for a lumpectomy for Stage 1A breast cancer. This is considered early-stage cancer, and a short wait for surgery scheduling is typically safe.
It's important to understand that radiation therapy doesn't happen immediately after lumpectomy. Radiation is usually given after surgery once you've healed, and if chemotherapy is needed, radiation comes after that treatment is finished.
The typical timeline is:
- Lumpectomy first (outpatient procedure, usually 60-90 minutes)
- Recovery period (most people return to normal activities within 2 weeks)
- Then radiation therapy begins (typically 5 days a week for 4-6 weeks)
For Stage 1 breast cancer, surgery is usually the main treatment, often performed with a sentinel lymph node biopsy to check if cancer has spread.
If you're feeling anxious about the timing, it's completely understandable. Your healthcare team can discuss your specific situation and explain why the scheduled timing is appropriate for your case.
April 7