Papillary breast cancer and reconstruction

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Found lump about 8 weeks ago…put off seeing GP for over a month hoping it would go away, but I eventually did and it’s been a rollercoaster since then! Appt at hospital within 2 weeks, suspicious mammogram and ultrasound so biopsy taken. Now just over a week later I’ve just had preliminary results of biopsy and it’s Papillary breast cancer. Confirmed it’s oestrogen positive, one hard lump approx 10-15mm diameter and a couple of other small areas visible on ultrasound in same area (spread of 35mm -50mm) which just feels a little thicker/swollen. No lymph node abnormalities on ultrasound. Waiting HER2 results. Have to go back on 12th Jan when surgeon will set date for surgery or if HER2 positive start chemo. I know that until we know if HER2 positive and any post surgery/sentinel node results back prognosis cannot be confirmed. Surgeon believes it’s curable and I want to believe-but it’s so easy to worry while waiting for confirmation.

I know so many in the same boat but no two journeys are the same. But I have so many questions. I’m a “big girl” (36H) I have been told that mastectomy would be best ( I agree as I have had previous surgery on that breast) and I will take reconstruction, ideally with implant. I understand that implants won’t be H cup to match other boob -  surgeon can reduce other boob at same time for symmetry. I would prefer a smaller size so this is not disagreeable to me. But I am concerned about implications for recovery. Has anyone any experience of this type of surgery? 

  • Hi Jolliepie

    Welcome to the forum and Iam sorry to hear that you have been diagnosed with breast cancer. While I haven’t any experience with the type of surgery you are having I noticed that you haven’t had any replies so I thought I’d reply to you to welcome you to the community. Hopefully someone with the experience you are looking for will be along shortly.

    Once you have confirmation of your treatment plan things should start to get easier for you.

    Wishing you the best of luck with whatever comes next.

    Best wishes

    Daisy53

    Community Champion Badge

  • Thank you Daisy. My heads all over the place at the moment and don’t think I wrote the above with any expectation of a quick response! I’ve been reading older posts and found some relevant information and think I’ve got a better idea what to expect. It’s reassuring that this community is here and that there’s so much support to help folk get through.