I have just been diagnosed with DCIS & am really a bit numb. More biopsies next week to ascertain the size so that a decision can be made about lumpectomy or mastectomy. Both of which sound scary to me at the moment.
How long after a lumpectomy are you able to get back to "normal " activities?
I know everyone is different but any experiences of how debilitating the radiotherapy following surgery is would be very helpful.
Hi Holie welcome to the forum and I am sorry to hear what is happening for you and little wonder you are numb with it all. Once you know what is happening you will feel better, I know that sounds silly but believe me knowing is so much better than not knowing. You will be given exercises after a Lumpectomy and it is vital that you do these religiously as this will enable you to regain full movement and extension of that arm when Lymph nodes are removed. Recovery can take a few weeks after a Lumpectomy but each of us as you say are different so thta means timeframe are different but can be about 9-10 weeks in some. The time space from surgery to starting radiotherapy is to allow you to heal and for the breast to settle down prior to Radiotherapy. The Radiotherapy itself is relatively straight forward and you will feel nothing during the treatment which is painless. It does make you very tired so you have to rest up as you need to . Your skin around the breast can become red and sore but they will be looking out for that.
We are here anytime as you want to post and ask questions or just to tell us how you are getting on.
gail
