Second op required.

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Hi,  has anyone been through a second op after lumpectomy?  I was diagnosed with IDC grade 2, E+, HER-0 in July.  Had a wide local excision (lumpectomy) and sentinel node biopsy three weeks ago.  All went well and am healing ok.  I went back for the results today and the consultant said I had to go back in for a second op as the lump was slightly larger than they originally thought, so they did not get clear enough margins.  Positives though were that it was downgraded to grade 1, the lymph nodes were all clear, and if they get clear margins this time, I might not need to have radiotherapy and just have the Letrozole pills for 5 years.  So a mixed bag today.  Was not expecting to go back in again, but it has to be done.  Bit more waiting,  but good results all round, so I’m happy. Smiley 

  • yes Ihad to go back for second as they said same about the lump, took ages for the final report but was all clear, and i found it less painful than first.i guess as was already healing, and yay about clear lymphs 

  • Hi Orchid234

    I had to have a second lumpectomy as well and although I had different pathology, like Djct,  found it very much easier than the first and of course they don't normally take sentinel nodes .

    I hope it all goes really well for you, fantastic news about the down grade. Slight smile

  • Thank you both, good to know it is less painful than the first one.  I was very pleased about the downgrade.  Grin

  • I too found out today that I need a second operation as the margins were not clear. It's a little stumbling block but for the right reasons. I was also informed as it is a quicker operation the chances are quite good that I may get called in at short notice as its easier to fit in these small operations. Failing that it will be a 3-4 week wait. I just want it over and done with but am also grateful for everything the NHS has done for me x

  • Hi, have just left a message on your thread.  You are right, it is for the right reasons.  I was told too that I might get called in sooner if they have a cancellation.  Like you, I just want it over with and move onto the next part.  Let me know when you hear about a new date for your op.  Take care, sending hugs x

  • Thank you, keep me updated as well x

  • I had a second op after my initial lumpectomy a couple of years ago. The surgeon went in at the same site, so there was only one scar and the recovery was very straight forward. After two years, that scar has healed very well and is barely visible - I know not the most important thing, especially when you are first diagnosed, but I am constantly mesmerised by the body's ability to heal :)

    I wish you the best of luck with your second op and your journey going forward x

  • Thank you Rose222, yes, that is very true, the body is an amazing thing.  The surgeon said they will use the same site, it is still healing, so not too worried about that.  

    Take care x

  • Second op day tomorrow. Do not feel as nervous as first time.  Just hope they get enough clear margins this time.  Positive thoughts x

  • Best of luck tomorrow.  Hope they get clear margins for you this time. x

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