Cancer Research UK main site

average time between lumpsectomy and radiotherapy

frenchie1974
Offline

hi, my operation to remove a cancerous lump from my breast,and lymph nodes is next wednesday, but i'd like to know from the surgery to the start of the radiotherapy is how many weeks? we have a family holiday abroad that was planned last year. this is only 10 weeks away, is it possible for  operation and radio  treatment to be  done and dusted within 10 weeks...? or do we cancel the holiday. . :(

  • Offline

    Hello and thanks for posting

    I'm sorry to hear about your diagnosis and the dilemma regarding your holiday.

    It's best to mention to your specialist that you have a holiday booked. Usually, they will try and work around a booked holiday if possible.

    Guidelines in England recommend starting radiotherapy treatment 31 days after surgery although in reality it's usually longer than this and can be 8-10 weeks in some cases ,especially if the wound is taking a while to heal. Elsewhere in the UK, there are no guidelines about starting radiotherapy after surgery.

    I can't advise you as it really is best to be discussed with your specialist . You could call your breast specialist nurse to talk this through with her, as she may also be able to give some indication as to what the waiting times for radiotherapy are in your hospital.

    Good luck and wishing you all the best

    Wanda

  • Offline in reply to CRUK Nurse Wanda

    hi wanda, 

    thanks for your reply, i'll ask the specialist, and nursing staff next week before my op.

    many thanks 

Speak to a nurse

Quick links

Follow us

Registered with Fundraising Regulator (logo)
Cancer Research UK is a registered charity in England and Wales (1089464), Scotland (SC041666), the Isle of Man (1103) and Jersey (247). A company limited by guarantee. Registered company in England and Wales (4325234) and the Isle of Man (5713F). Registered address: 2 Redman Place, London, E20 1JQ.