Newly diagnosed

Hi pebbles1. What to expect would depend on the type of surgery you are having -- lumpectomy, mastectomy, mastectomy with reconstruction? After surgery, it will depend on the pathology results.

It's great to read that you have a supportive environment and a fabulous medical team! 

Hi Pebbles,

Like GreyCats said, it would depend on the type of surgery. 

I was diagnosed with Oestrogen Receptor Positive Breast Cancer in August '21 (that was a great relief. If my breast lump turned out to be Oestrogen Receptor Negative, it would be bad news regarding treatment).

My tumour was on my right breast near the nipple. It apparently started due to a duct which had become blocked through no fault of my own. I had it removed in November, it was 3cm. 

I also had 3 lymph nodes removed under my armpit, that's to make sure that if the cancer came back, it wouldn't have my lymphatic system to infect.

All in all. I'm recovering well. I've had surgery to remove the cancerous lump, 3 lymph nodes removed (at the same time). 

I have also gone through 10 days of Radiotherapy. Monday - Friday every day for 2 weeks. You get the weekends off sat and sun. 

Radiotherapy is a breeze. 

Your breast feels hot and and looks a bit red after the second week. However, it is completely painless while going through Radiotherapy treatment.

I hope this advice helps.

Good luck on the 1st  

Hello Pebbles- I was also diagnosed with stage 1 invasive ducal carcinoma 10 days ago and am having a lumpectomy on 7th April followed by radiotherapy if the post operative histology results are what is expected.

Like you I’m still in shock and I think I’m still in denial about it.

Hope11-it’s nice to hear you’re doing well. I am worrying about the removal of my lymph nodes and developing lymphoedema- how was your arm after the surgery?