Hi everyone,

I’m 44 and I was diagnosed on 16th October with a 3cm invasive carcinoma in my upper inner right breast. I also had a suspicious calcification in the outer part of my right breast that was biopsied and said to be stage zero in situ which meant it needed to be removed also. From the initial appointment in breast clinic to my operation it was 9 weeks and 3 days. I was really nervous about the prospect of surgery having never had a general anaesthetic before however I wanted to post to reassure anyone else in a similar situation. 

So it’s day two after having therapeutic mammoplasty which involved a lift and reduction to the right breast, removing the cancer and taking the sentinel lymph nodes plus a lift and reduction to the left breast for asymmetry. I was operated on at 3pm and was in recovery at 7:45 pm. Initial pain was felt underneath my breasts but this subsided with paracetamol overnight. I stayed in hospital overnight and was home by 3pm the following day. At home I’ve been given paracetamol and codeine and have slept well (ish) on a v shaped pillow. I have also managed the exercises as it’s noticeable how stiff you feel straight away. The pain is more uncomfortable and sore than excruciating and very manageable with slow, gentle movements. 

I have to wait around 6 weeks for results and will then find out if chemo is needed as well as radiotherapy and tamoxifen. As my tumour was grade 3 (fairly aggressive) and considering my age chemo has been mentioned but not confirmed. 

Is there anyone else in a similar situation?