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Impending mastectomy and lymph node removal

Lizzy03
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Hi, there this is my first post and I'm hoping someone can give me some advice!..

I was diagnosed with Her 2 positive grade 3 (and stage 3) breast cancer and lymph node positive back in September 2022. I have had 6 chemo sessions and am now having immunotherapy (antibody) treatment.

The latest MRI has shown there are no longer any signs of cancer tissue/cells in the breast or lymph nodes. Which is fantastic news of course, but I am now waiting for a full mastectomy and axillary lymph node removal, which as hard as I try and I have researched this a lot and am waiting on a second opinion, seems too much to go through, especially with such good results, from my scans.

I am seriously worried about the high risks it seems of lymphoedema, and of course losing my breast. I already have weakness in my right arm and continuous pins and needles, since my first biopsy ( the side I have  cancer) and Cording from the Chemo drugs and cannulas. So I  feel I would already be at quite high risk.

Is there anyone out there who hasn't gone down the route of this drastic surgery, and taken alternative treatment, or can advise me..

I do know of someone who refused surgery, and had radiotherapy instead of the surgery, but my family, friends and Doctors seem horrified that I may not go through with this. I have to make my mind up soon as I am due to have surgery in the next few weeks ( just waiting for a date) would appreciate any advice offered.

From a very worried lady! ...

 

 

 

Parents
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    Hi Lizzy, 

    Im in almost the same position now as you were 6 months ago. I wonder if you can let me know what you decided to do and how you’re doing now? It’s so difficult finding the right information, but I’m desperate to keep my lymph nodes without affecting my reoccurrence risk. 

  • Offline in reply to Verity1

    Hello , I had bilateral mastectomies and lymph clearance on left breast ,last September. Followed by chemo which finished in March ,felt pretty good throughout. Wasn’t really given a choice about the left breast ,could have had partial  on right side ,but I felt happier having it totally removed. It’s a very personal choice .I did all the exercises the Breast nurse taught me ,after lymph clearance the gentle massage too . I have a little numbness under my left arm but nothing awful. I do massage that arm in morning after my shower and moisturise it too. When I watch tv at night I do the same , it’s a habit now . So far all is well ,always wear gloves gardening too .

    It is hard to know what’s right ,have another chat with breast nurses as well as consultant and tell them about your fears ,

    All the best R x

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  • Offline in reply to Verity1

    Hello , I had bilateral mastectomies and lymph clearance on left breast ,last September. Followed by chemo which finished in March ,felt pretty good throughout. Wasn’t really given a choice about the left breast ,could have had partial  on right side ,but I felt happier having it totally removed. It’s a very personal choice .I did all the exercises the Breast nurse taught me ,after lymph clearance the gentle massage too . I have a little numbness under my left arm but nothing awful. I do massage that arm in morning after my shower and moisturise it too. When I watch tv at night I do the same , it’s a habit now . So far all is well ,always wear gloves gardening too .

    It is hard to know what’s right ,have another chat with breast nurses as well as consultant and tell them about your fears ,

    All the best R x

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