Surgery for lumpectamy coming up. Please help... - Cancer: Breast Message Board

nicholejasch · 04-21-2008, 06:44 PM

So I was diagnosed with BC back in October 07, I just got done with chemo which suprisingly went very well. I am scheduled for surgery May 1st, the doctors said the chemo went very well, and the tumor has shrunk a lot. Not sure of size now, but it started at about 5 cm and now I can barley feel it. The doctors said as long as all goes well with surgery, I go to raditation. If not I have to have the breast removed. I am trying to see if anyone knows how often removing the tumor actually works. I am scared bc I am only 25 and I dont want to loose my boob this young. What are my chances here? I have been so positive througout this entire experince and I am just worried something like that will change my outlook on everything.

leea1206 · 04-28-2008, 04:21 PM

I was told lumpectomy plus radiation is equal to mastectomy as far as 10 yr survivial. As I understand, if you do lumpectomy it is very important to do the radiation, to make sure they don't miss any stray cancer cells, in the breast.

I opted for bilateral mast with reconstruction, but I had a strong family hx and was much older than you, at 48 when dxed in 06. Whether you do mast or lumpectomy is a very personal decison and based on what your most comfortable with.

Good luck with your surgery, this wk and wishing you a fast recovery.

Leea