Lumpectomy

Hi DeeDee24

I'm Daisy53 one of the Community Champions on this forum.  I'm sorry to hear that you were diagnosed with breast cancer.  I've had surgery three times for breast cancer and I came through it with no problems each time.  You might find it helpful to ring your breast care nurse to have a chat about your fears about the surgery and they should be able to set your mind at rest.

Wishing you the best of luck with your surgery tomorrow.

Best wishes

Daisy53

Hi DeeDee24817d6f84 

Sorry you are feeling so anxious about your surgery tomorrow. I think it’s very natural to be anxious about an anaesthetic, I feel this way before any op, even though I’ve had several for uterine polyps and 2 lumpectomies. There’s always this niggling fear. But I’m still here!! And I’ll also confess that when it comes to the actual anaesthetic I am a weird person who likes the drugs. Please do tell the staff that you are feeling very anxious as I’m sure they will reassure you and look after you well. Will be thinking of you tomorrow. Love and hugs, HFxx

I’ve  had three surgeries now. Chatting to the anaesthetists and suddenly finding yourself relaxed and pain-free in the recovery room seems the easy bit to me. It can be some time before you go in so it will help to have a friend/partner with you to distract you. You will have a chat with the surgeon and the anaesthetist during that time, too. Tell them how you are feeling and the anaesthetist may be able to help. Feeling anxious or weepy this evening is understandable but you’ll get through this.

Hi DeeDee, Just wanted to send you a hug as I really suffer fear pre surgery. The first time I really thought I might never come round and was full of anxiety. I downloaded some podcasts to listen to while I was waiting on the ward and took a book too. Although my husband offered to stay with me I didn’t want him there (he understood!). I did have quite a long wait so was glad to have something to keep me occupied (not sure I took a word in though!). Good luck for tomorrow. 

Hi, I had my surgery at the end of March and was really terrified, mainly that at 64 I wouldn't survive the surgery.  I had never had any form of surgery before.   I voiced my fears to the nurses, anaethetist and surgeon and they were wonderful in reassuring me in a lighthearted but caring way. The relief I felt when I came round was immense.   

I had to have a re-excision in early may for better  margins and I wasn't at all worried 2nd time around.

It's the fear of the unknown-but the team around you know what they are doing. You will be in good hands.

I hope all goes well, but please talk to your team beforehand and let them know of your worries x

Hi Deedee. Ah, it's a.lot to deal with. Surgery is a daunting thought, following the awful shock of a cancer diagnosis - it isnt surprising that you are feeling anxious. I had my diagnosis two months ago and my lumpectomy on 26th November. I was nervous - much more than with previous surgeries, probably because I'm 10 years older and so feel more vulnerable. I found the staff so kind and reassuring. You will meet the surgeon and the anaesthetist and you will be able to ask any questions. They are well used to people being very anxious and they can help. 

I am now 6 weeks post surgery and I have finished my radiotherapy. I don't need chemotherapy. It has all been easier than I expected, although not very pleasant. You can help your recovery by doing all they suggest e.g. exercises.

Take something to occupy yourself while waiting. I couldn't concentrate on my book so I played some games on my phone. 

Best of luck and let us know how you get on. 

I was also scared before lumpectomy, I am 66 and it’s was the first op I’d ever had. Couldn’t believe how easy it was, one minute talking to nurse, the next getting  woken up for tea and toast and then dressed and home.

left house 7.30am back in house 4pm no ill effects.

all will go well x

Hi All

Sorry im not replying to you all individually but I just wanted to say thank you for taking the time to respond your comments helped. I had my surgery on Wednesday and whilst I was terrified and was very tearful the hospital staff were amazing and so gentle with me. The surgery went well and I am home recovering. The worst part at the moment is the drain it's making everything very uncomfortable and in pain but I know it's only temporary and tbh I feel very lucky as I know that I have had a relatively easy journey so far compared to some so I'm thankful. I have follow up appointment on 27th January keeping everything crossed that they managed to get it all with clear margins then I'll find out what's next. Thank you again for the words of comfort when I really needed them x

Glad to hear that surgery went well and that you are now home.

Best of luck with your results appointment.

Best wishes

Daisy53

Had the same surgery yesterday. Felt frightened and scared and at one point asked my family if they would be cross if I changed my mind . Part of the reason for this was because from diagnosis everything happens so fast that your surgery is here before you know it 

My admission time was 730 in the morning and I was fortunate to be first on the list All I can say is that as soon as I arrived on the ward I felt a sense of calm The staff on the ward we’re absolutely amazing putting me at ease and explained every step 

My only memory of the surgery was been given the anaesthetic to send me to sleep and then been woken up to be told my surgery is now complete. 

Ithink my anxiety was fear of the unknown and didn’t know what to expect which is normal as you have received a diagnosis that changes your life. 

The individuals that were involved in my care yesterday were very professional and caring and really do put you at ease 

Hope all goes well tomorrow