Hi Marypoppins007 and thank you for your post.

I'm sorry to hear that you're confused about the term "Ductal Carcinoma In Situ" (DCIS). It's important to note that even among doctors, there can be differing opinions regarding this term.

Cancer is classified as such when a tumour has the potential to spread. DCIS, however, has not yet developed this ability; it remains contained within the breast ducts. Some doctors do not classify it as cancer because it cannot spread, but others consider it precancerous since it has the potential to develop into an invasive ductal cancer. Therefore, much of the literature on DCIS is still uncertain about how to classify it.

DCIS was largely unknown before the introduction of breast screening. It is believed that most cases of DCIS do not progress to invasive cancer. Initially, women were offered a choice between a watch-and-wait approach or surgery to remove the DCIS. Understandably, many women opted for surgery to eliminate the threat of the condition progressing.

Surgeons will perform what is called a lumpectomy or breast conserving surgery.

When breast conserving surgery   is carried out the abnormal area is removed including a margin of healthy tissue around the DCIS. This will decrease the volume of breast tissue that remains but without being involved in your care we can't say what this may be for you. I suggest you ask your breast surgeon or breast care nurse who will be in a better position to answer this question.

Recovery   after breast surgery will look different for every patient. It is important to look after yourself and allowing your body time to heal.

I hope all goes well with your surgery and you make a full recovery.

Please get back to us if you need any more information or support. You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline. The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

Kind regards

Tina