Guest guest Posted October 16, 2006 Report Posted October 16, 2006 Yeah I think you're right, hey that's a great option isn't it?? starshinespedestal wrote: Cant the Tram Flap come from your behind as well? Seems I say some pics where they used skin from the back end? I dont have a very big stomach, but I do have extra meat in the seat...giggle char > I didn't have reconsturction. I had my surgery at age 44 and will be 61 > shortly. I have never regretted not having reconsturction. There are lots of > ladies here that had reconstruction. I do know some of it can be painful. I > will keep you in my prayers. > Hugs > nne > Breast Cancer Patients Soul Mates for Life > http://www.geocities.com/chucky5741/breastcancerpatients.html > BreastCancerStories.com > http://www.breastcancerstories.com/content/view/433/161/ > Angel Feather Loomer > www.angelfeatherloomer.blogspot.com > Check out my other ornaments at > www.geocities.com/chucky5741/bcornament.html > Lots of info and gifts at: > www.cancerclub.com > DCIS > > > > My name is Debbie. I am 51 years old. I am married. My husband and I > > have > > been married for almost 33 years. We have a son, daughter-in-law and a > > precious 2 year old grandson. I have always been in good health..no major > > problems. However, I had a mammogram as part of my YP, and was told when > > it > > came back that I needed to arrange to have another one in 6 mos. So I did > > in July 2006. This time my gynecologist called me himself and told me the > > results and that I needed to have a biopsy just to be safe. It showed > > microcalcifications. He called and set me up to see a surgeon. He went > > over the mammogram with us and we had the biopsy on Oct. 6, 2006. The > > surgeon told my family that everything looked okay, but would have to wait > > on pathology report. Last Wed. I got the news. On Friday we went to his > > office and he explained it to us. He said it was pre-cancer, but yet > > still > > cancer. It is located in the milk duct behind the nipple. It is very > > small.(Radiologists said it was a miracle the mammogram showed it). It was > > classified as DCIS(ductal carcinoma in situ). Non- invasive...hasn't > > spread, > > still in same area. So we were given the option to have either lumpectomy > > with radiation or mastectomy with no radiation. After much prayer and > > talking with a some friends who had both, we decided to have mastectomy. > > I > > go tomorrow morning to make the arrangements. He said they would > > reconstructive surgery at the same time. I would have to see a plastic > > surgeon prior to the surgery. My husband and I are both apprehensive. We > > just want it to be over. I'm also not sure what is the best > > reconstructive > > method. I think I would rather have it come from my own body. Can anyone > > share with me their experience? > > Thanks > > Debbie > > Call Upon ME in the day of trouble; I will deliver thee. > > Psalm 50:15 > > > > > > > > God Is Good!! > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Quote
Guest guest Posted October 16, 2006 Report Posted October 16, 2006 yes, you can get extra fat & skin from several locations (back, butt, stomach). There's something called DIEP where fat and skin is taken from the stomach, but your abdominal muscles remain. The surgery is more involved and not as many surgeons do it. That's the only surgery I would consider, especially now that I've put on a few pounds :-) I am now a year from diagnosis, 8 months out from the end of chemo, and 4 months of Herceptin remaining. I feel like I will revisit my decision to reconstruct, but not till I'm done with all medication and see how I'm feeling. My body, mind, and soul are a work in progress now as I'm still getting treatment and trying to recover at the same time. I'm glad reconstruction is something I can choose to revisit later. - starshinespedestal wrote on 10/16/2006, 4:00 PM: > Cant the Tram Flap come from your behind as well? Seems I say some > pics where they used skin from the back end? I dont have a very big > stomach, but I do have extra meat in the seat...giggle > > char > > Quote
Guest guest Posted October 16, 2006 Report Posted October 16, 2006 Hi Debbie, My name is Kandi. I'm 45 yrs old. Single. I live in Kansas. I have one grown daughter and two beautiful grandsons. I was diagnosed in May of 2005. Lumpectomy in June 2005. Radiation from July-September. I had reconstruction in May of 2006 but unfortunately even though they thought they had allowed enough time, the radiated tissue wasn't healthy enough and I have had serious complications and much recovery left to do. Don't lose hope and always seek other opinions. I have been in the medical field for 20 years and there could always be another key surgeon with experience that could offer alternatives.I had to deal with the insurance HMO also, which limits options and opinions. I do not know what area you live in or if you have access to key medical professionals. I hope and pray that you do. I did not have any local support or anyone to talk to. No partner to help support me either. In fact the person I was to marry became a jerk and rejected me. Self esteem is an issue I hope you don't have to deal with and that you are loved and supported and told you are always beautiful by your spouse and family. I also had DCIS and thank god it wasn't in my lymph nodes. My reconstruction was actually considered a reduction because I had been large breasted. They did left reduction and a little on the right breast that had the lumpectomy but now I have about a b-cup on the left and a right deformed breast. No fault of the surgeon I hope just bad luck. I admire you and think it will be the best outcome to have immediate reconstruction. Take care and god bless you. Send me a message if you need someone to talk to. This is my first time on the website. Debbie wrote: My name is Debbie. I am 51 years old. I am married. My husband and I have been married for almost 33 years. We have a son, daughter-in-law and a precious 2 year old grandson. I have always been in good health..no major problems. However, I had a mammogram as part of my YP, and was told when it came back that I needed to arrange to have another one in 6 mos. So I did in July 2006. This time my gynecologist called me himself and told me the results and that I needed to have a biopsy just to be safe. It showed microcalcifications. He called and set me up to see a surgeon. He went over the mammogram with us and we had the biopsy on Oct. 6, 2006. The surgeon told my family that everything looked okay, but would have to wait on pathology report. Last Wed. I got the news. On Friday we went to his office and he explained it to us. He said it was pre-cancer, but yet still cancer. It is located in the milk duct behind the nipple. It is very small.(Radiologists said it was a miracle the mammogram showed it). It was classified as DCIS(ductal carcinoma in situ). Non-invasive...hasn't spread, still in same area. So we were given the option to have either lumpectomy with radiation or mastectomy with no radiation. After much prayer and talking with a some friends who had both, we decided to have mastectomy. I go tomorrow morning to make the arrangements. He said they would reconstructive surgery at the same time. I would have to see a plastic surgeon prior to the surgery. My husband and I are both apprehensive. We just want it to be over. I'm also not sure what is the best reconstructive method. I think I would rather have it come from my own body. Can anyone share with me their experience? Thanks Debbie Call Upon ME in the day of trouble; I will deliver thee. Psalm 50:15 God Is Good!! Quote
Guest guest Posted October 16, 2006 Report Posted October 16, 2006 Hi Debbie, I won't do the whole story, but I have had a double with reconstruction. My breast surgeon and plastic surgeon worked together. The breast surgeon did the removal, the plastic surgeon did the expanders. I had discussed my reconstruction options with the plastic surgeon. I too thought flap reconstruction would be a good option, but she said she no longer does those. They have a much longer recovery time and too many possibilities for infection and such. I have silicone implants and am part of a study to assure their safety. I am very happy with mine. I went from a double D to a C cup and the girls are darling and perky! Although, at 68 the rest of me is kind of lumpy. I encourage you to get with your plastic surgeon before you have your mastectomy. Hope this helps. Maya ---- kandi knoeber wrote: > Hi Debbie, > My name is Kandi. I'm 45 yrs old. Single. I live in Kansas. I have one grown daughter and two beautiful grandsons. I was diagnosed in May of 2005. Lumpectomy in June 2005. Radiation from July-September. I had reconstruction in May of 2006 but unfortunately even though they thought they had allowed enough time, the radiated tissue wasn't healthy enough and I have had serious complications and much recovery left to do. Don't lose hope and always seek other opinions. I have been in the medical field for 20 years and there could always be another key surgeon with experience that could offer alternatives.I had to deal with the insurance HMO also, which limits options and opinions. I do not know what area you live in or if you have access to key medical professionals. I hope and pray that you do. I did not have any local support or anyone to talk to. No partner to help support me either. In fact the person I was to marry became a jerk and rejected me. Self esteem is an issue I > hope you don't have to deal with and that you are loved and supported and told you are always beautiful by your spouse and family. I also had DCIS and thank god it wasn't in my lymph nodes. My reconstruction was actually considered a reduction because I had been large breasted. They did left reduction and a little on the right breast that had the lumpectomy but now I have about a b-cup on the left and a right deformed breast. No fault of the surgeon I hope just bad luck. I admire you and think it will be the best outcome to have immediate reconstruction. Take care and god bless you. Send me a message if you need someone to talk to. This is my first time on the website. > Debbie wrote: > My name is Debbie. I am 51 years old. I am married. My husband and I have > been married for almost 33 years. We have a son, daughter-in-law and a > precious 2 year old grandson. I have always been in good health..no major > problems. However, I had a mammogram as part of my YP, and was told when it > came back that I needed to arrange to have another one in 6 mos. So I did > in July 2006. This time my gynecologist called me himself and told me the > results and that I needed to have a biopsy just to be safe. It showed > microcalcifications. He called and set me up to see a surgeon. He went > over the mammogram with us and we had the biopsy on Oct. 6, 2006. The > surgeon told my family that everything looked okay, but would have to wait > on pathology report. Last Wed. I got the news. On Friday we went to his > office and he explained it to us. He said it was pre-cancer, but yet still > cancer. It is located in the milk duct behind the nipple. It is very > small.(Radiologists said it was a miracle the mammogram showed it). It was > classified as DCIS(ductal carcinoma in situ). Non-invasive...hasn't spread, > still in same area. So we were given the option to have either lumpectomy > with radiation or mastectomy with no radiation. After much prayer and > talking with a some friends who had both, we decided to have mastectomy. I > go tomorrow morning to make the arrangements. He said they would > reconstructive surgery at the same time. I would have to see a plastic > surgeon prior to the surgery. My husband and I are both apprehensive. We > just want it to be over. I'm also not sure what is the best reconstructive > method. I think I would rather have it come from my own body. Can anyone > share with me their experience? > Thanks > Debbie > Call Upon ME in the day of trouble; I will deliver thee. > Psalm 50:15 > > > > God Is Good!! > > > > > > > > Quote
Guest guest Posted October 16, 2006 Report Posted October 16, 2006 Hi Deb, I would have responded to the website but because you are seeing your surgeon tomorrow, I wanted to make sure you got this message!!! I was first told that I might have DCIS from a mammo. When I went to see the surgeon she found a lump (which I KNEW I had for over 2 years, but my doctor had told me not to worry about it, I was just lumpy. " The surgeon decided to biopsy both at the same time. Turns out, I indeed had DCIS but the lump was IDC, invasive ductal carcinoma. Sigh.......... Soooooo, I had 2 lumps in the same breast. I had always been an A- cup until I had implants 4 years ago that brought me to a full B. LOL Nothing scary, just something to fit the rest of my body. My surgeon was very honest with me. She told me that if I had normal to large breasts she would recommend the lumpectomy with radiation. But because I had so little breast tissue, she told me that radiation limits your choices when it comes to reconstruction because of the damage that it causes to the tissue. She left me to choose which way I wanted to go. I went with the full mastectomy with reconstruction (the plastic surgeon felt that she would have to REDUCE my good breast because of the amount of tissue taken). It turned out that she was able to close me up without having to change my implant size. I got lucky! Even so, my " good " breast is still larger and much better shaped, but I can cover it up with a decent padded bra. The bottom line is this.........had I chosen the lumpectomy and radiation, there would quite possibly be NOTHING I could do to fix things if they came out wrong. Weigh ALL your options!!! Think them through!! I LIVED on breastcancer.org for the 5 weeks from my diagnosis until my surgery. I was very well informed. If you still aren't sure, and want to read more about everything, tell your Doc. Waiting another 2-3 weeks will not make any bit of difference especially with DCIS. KNOWLEDGE IS POWER and POWER EQUALS STRENGTH!!! Peace and strength........kimmy P.S. I will try to post this on the web page also, not sure if I will succeed though. lol > > My name is Debbie. I am 51 years old. I am married. My husband and I have > > been married for almost 33 years. We have a son, daughter-in-law and a > > precious 2 year old grandson. I have always been in good health..no major > > problems. However, I had a mammogram as part of my YP, and was told when it > > came back that I needed to arrange to have another one in 6 mos. So I did > > in July 2006. This time my gynecologist called me himself and told me the > > results and that I needed to have a biopsy just to be safe. It showed > > microcalcifications. He called and set me up to see a surgeon. He went > > over the mammogram with us and we had the biopsy on Oct. 6, 2006. The > > surgeon told my family that everything looked okay, but would have to wait > > on pathology report. Last Wed. I got the news. On Friday we went to his > > office and he explained it to us. He said it was pre-cancer, but yet still > > cancer. It is located in the milk duct behind the nipple. It is very > > small.(Radiologists said it was a miracle the mammogram showed it). It was > > classified as DCIS(ductal carcinoma in situ). Non- invasive...hasn't spread, > > still in same area. So we were given the option to have either lumpectomy > > with radiation or mastectomy with no radiation. After much prayer and > > talking with a some friends who had both, we decided to have mastectomy. I > > go tomorrow morning to make the arrangements. He said they would > > reconstructive surgery at the same time. I would have to see a plastic > > surgeon prior to the surgery. My husband and I are both apprehensive. We > > just want it to be over. I'm also not sure what is the best reconstructive > > method. I think I would rather have it come from my own body. Can anyone > > share with me their experience? > > Thanks > > Debbie > > Call Upon ME in the day of trouble; I will deliver thee. > > Psalm 50:15 > > > > > > > > God Is Good!! > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Quote
Guest guest Posted October 18, 2006 Report Posted October 18, 2006 Juli, Not everyone gets Lymphedema. I had my surgery in May 1990. I had 23 nodes removed and have never had a problem. Be sure to do your exercises as soon as the dr tells you its ok. Ask him for a list of things you have to be aware of so you don't get Lymphedema.I will keep you in my prayers. Candy, I must not have gotten your original post. I am sorry to hear you are in so much pain. Have you gone to a physical therapist? I will keep you in my prayers. Hugs nne Breast Cancer Patients Soul Mates for Life http://www.geocities.com/chucky5741/breastcancerpatients.html BreastCancerStories.com http://www.breastcancerstories.com/content/view/433/161/ Angel Feather Loomer www.angelfeatherloomer.blogspot.com Check out my other ornaments at www.geocities.com/chucky5741/bcornament.html Lots of info and gifts at: www.cancerclub.com Re: DCIS Dear Candy, I jsut read your post and it scared me so much. I am 43- had stage 3b cancer, received A/C chemo, and am jsut now post surger of a week today. They had to take all 16 of my nodes and the lymphadema is a real possibility. My arm is not swollen yet, but the whole arm thing is so scary. What symptoms did u have right after surgery? Juli > My name is Debbie. I am 51 years old. I am married. My husband and I have > been married for almost 33 years. We have a son, daughter-in-law and a > precious 2 year old grandson. I have always been in good health..no major > problems. However, I had a mammogram as part of my YP, and was told when it > came back that I needed to arrange to have another one in 6 mos. So I did > in July 2006. This time my gynecologist called me himself and told me the > results and that I needed to have a biopsy just to be safe. It showed > microcalcifications. He called and set me up to see a surgeon. He went > over the mammogram with us and we had the biopsy on Oct. 6, 2006. The > surgeon told my family that everything looked okay, but would have to wait > on pathology report. Last Wed. I got the news. On Friday we went to his > office and he explained it to us. He said it was pre-cancer, but yet still > cancer. It is located in the milk duct behind the nipple. It is very > small.(Radiologists said it was a miracle the mammogram showed it). It was > classified as DCIS(ductal carcinoma in situ). Non-invasive...hasn't spread, > still in same area. So we were given the option to have either lumpectomy > with radiation or mastectomy with no radiation. After much prayer and > talking with a some friends who had both, we decided to have mastectomy. I > go tomorrow morning to make the arrangements. He said they would > reconstructive surgery at the same time. I would have to see a plastic > surgeon prior to the surgery. My husband and I are both apprehensive. We > just want it to be over. I'm also not sure what is the best reconstructive > method. I think I would rather have it come from my own body. Can anyone > share with me their experience? > Thanks > Debbie > Call Upon ME in the day of trouble; I will deliver thee. > Psalm 50:15 > > > > God Is Good!! > > > > > > > > Quote
Guest guest Posted October 19, 2006 Report Posted October 19, 2006 Well lots of ladies will disagree but thats what makes us all unique with different opinions and decisions on treatments. No way did I want to keep my breast knowing that there was cancer in there. My father died of lung/brain cancer and my sister of colon cancer. Then it was my turn. If I would have been thinking clearly I would have had the other breast removed also. When I was diagnosed we didn't have a surgeon so the family doctor got us the doctor that operated on his wife. He actually has done surgeries for quite a few of his fellow doctors family members. I felt if other drs trusted them with their surgeries or surgeries of family members we would be in good hands. We had already decided on the mastectomy before talking to him. Then we asked him his opinion, he said if you were my wife I would have her go with the mastectomy. Why put yourself through 2 surgeries? Plus there is always in the back of your mind did they get it all? Just my opinion. Hugs nne Breast Cancer Patients Soul Mates for Life http://www.geocities.com/chucky5741/breastcancerpatients.html BreastCancerStories.com http://www.breastcancerstories.com/content/view/433/161/ Angel Feather Loomer www.angelfeatherloomer.blogspot.com Check out my other ornaments at www.geocities.com/chucky5741/bcornament.html Lots of info and gifts at: www.cancerclub.com Re: DCIS > >I don't get it. Why are so many people with single sites of DCIS having such radical > surgery? DCIS will only evolve into invasive cancer 50% of the time. Random breast biopsys > on anyone (over a certain age) will probably reveal DCIS a large proportion of the time. I > could see if a person had previous breast cancer, or had genetic markers (BRACA 1 or 2), > or had multiple sites of DCIS, then one could justify the radical procedures. I am afraid > that some people are unnecessarily scared by hearing the words " breast cancer " , and are > being manipulated by their fear into wanting some magic procedure that will free them > from ever having to even think about cancer again. But the reality is that there is no > increased survival with having a mastectomy, even when invasive cancer is present. > Survival is related to the metastatic disease---not the primary tumor in the breast. There > is no question that sometimes a mastectomy is warrented; but not in the numbers that are > currently being performed in this country. Once upon a time unnecessary hysterectomies > were common, as were unnecessary tonsillectomies. Eventually, I believe women will > realize that there is an awful lot of unjustified major surgery being performed; and there > will be a lot of anger and resentment. Anne V. > > > My name is Debbie. I am 51 years old. I am married. My husband and I have > > been married for almost 33 years. We have a son, daughter-in-law and a > > precious 2 year old grandson. I have always been in good health..no major > > problems. However, I had a mammogram as part of my YP, and was told when it > > came back that I needed to arrange to have another one in 6 mos. So I did > > in July 2006. This time my gynecologist called me himself and told me the > > results and that I needed to have a biopsy just to be safe. It showed > > microcalcifications. He called and set me up to see a surgeon. He went > > over the mammogram with us and we had the biopsy on Oct. 6, 2006. The > > surgeon told my family that everything looked okay, but would have to wait > > on pathology report. Last Wed. I got the news. On Friday we went to his > > office and he explained it to us. He said it was pre-cancer, but yet still > > cancer. It is located in the milk duct behind the nipple. It is very > > small.(Radiologists said it was a miracle the mammogram showed it). It was > > classified as DCIS(ductal carcinoma in situ). Non-invasive...hasn't spread, > > still in same area. So we were given the option to have either lumpectomy > > with radiation or mastectomy with no radiation. After much prayer and > > talking with a some friends who had both, we decided to have mastectomy. I > > go tomorrow morning to make the arrangements. He said they would > > reconstructive surgery at the same time. I would have to see a plastic > > surgeon prior to the surgery. My husband and I are both apprehensive. We > > just want it to be over. I'm also not sure what is the best reconstructive > > method. I think I would rather have it come from my own body. Can anyone > > share with me their experience? > > Thanks > > Debbie > > Call Upon ME in the day of trouble; I will deliver thee. > > Psalm 50:15 > > > > > > > > God Is Good!! > > > > > > > > > ---------------------------------------------------------- -- > > > No virus found in this incoming message. > Checked by AVG Free Edition. > Version: 7.1.408 / Virus Database: 268.13.4/480 - Release Date: 10/17/2006 > > > Quote
Guest guest Posted October 19, 2006 Report Posted October 19, 2006 I agree, thats where I am, just dont know what I am going to do. Cancer in one.. remove one? Or both? Or partical mastectomy?. Did I read somewhere that if you have a full mastectomy you dont need radiation? Does anyone know? char > > >I don't get it. Why are so many people with single sites of DCIS having such radical > > surgery? DCIS will only evolve into invasive cancer 50% of the time. Random breast > biopsys > > on anyone (over a certain age) will probably reveal DCIS a large proportion of the time. > I > > could see if a person had previous breast cancer, or had genetic markers (BRACA 1 or > 2), > > or had multiple sites of DCIS, then one could justify the radical procedures. I am afraid > > that some people are unnecessarily scared by hearing the words " breast cancer " , and > are > > being manipulated by their fear into wanting some magic procedure that will free them > > from ever having to even think about cancer again. But the reality is that there is no > > increased survival with having a mastectomy, even when invasive cancer is present. > > Survival is related to the metastatic disease---not the primary tumor in the breast. > There > > is no question that sometimes a mastectomy is warrented; but not in the numbers that > are > > currently being performed in this country. Once upon a time unnecessary > hysterectomies > > were common, as were unnecessary tonsillectomies. Eventually, I believe women will > > realize that there is an awful lot of unjustified major surgery being performed; and > there > > will be a lot of anger and resentment. Anne V. > > > > > My name is Debbie. I am 51 years old. I am married. My husband and I have > > > been married for almost 33 years. We have a son, daughter-in- law and a > > > precious 2 year old grandson. I have always been in good health..no major > > > problems. However, I had a mammogram as part of my YP, and was told when it > > > came back that I needed to arrange to have another one in 6 mos. So I did > > > in July 2006. This time my gynecologist called me himself and told me the > > > results and that I needed to have a biopsy just to be safe. It showed > > > microcalcifications. He called and set me up to see a surgeon. He went > > > over the mammogram with us and we had the biopsy on Oct. 6, 2006. The > > > surgeon told my family that everything looked okay, but would have to wait > > > on pathology report. Last Wed. I got the news. On Friday we went to his > > > office and he explained it to us. He said it was pre-cancer, but yet still > > > cancer. It is located in the milk duct behind the nipple. It is very > > > small.(Radiologists said it was a miracle the mammogram showed it). It was > > > classified as DCIS(ductal carcinoma in situ). Non- invasive...hasn't spread, > > > still in same area. So we were given the option to have either lumpectomy > > > with radiation or mastectomy with no radiation. After much prayer and > > > talking with a some friends who had both, we decided to have mastectomy. I > > > go tomorrow morning to make the arrangements. He said they would > > > reconstructive surgery at the same time. I would have to see a plastic > > > surgeon prior to the surgery. My husband and I are both apprehensive. We > > > just want it to be over. I'm also not sure what is the best reconstructive > > > method. I think I would rather have it come from my own body. Can anyone > > > share with me their experience? > > > Thanks > > > Debbie > > > Call Upon ME in the day of trouble; I will deliver thee. > > > Psalm 50:15 > > > > > > > > > > > > God Is Good!! > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > ---------------------------------------------------------- > -- > > > > > > No virus found in this incoming message. > > Checked by AVG Free Edition. > > Version: 7.1.408 / Virus Database: 268.13.4/480 - Release Date: 10/17/2006 > > > > > > Quote
Guest guest Posted October 19, 2006 Report Posted October 19, 2006 I agree, thats where I am, just dont know what I am going to do. Cancer in one.. remove one? Or both? Or partical mastectomy?. Did I read somewhere that if you have a full mastectomy you dont need radiation? Does anyone know? char > > >I don't get it. Why are so many people with single sites of DCIS having such radical > > surgery? DCIS will only evolve into invasive cancer 50% of the time. Random breast > biopsys > > on anyone (over a certain age) will probably reveal DCIS a large proportion of the time. > I > > could see if a person had previous breast cancer, or had genetic markers (BRACA 1 or > 2), > > or had multiple sites of DCIS, then one could justify the radical procedures. I am afraid > > that some people are unnecessarily scared by hearing the words " breast cancer " , and > are > > being manipulated by their fear into wanting some magic procedure that will free them > > from ever having to even think about cancer again. But the reality is that there is no > > increased survival with having a mastectomy, even when invasive cancer is present. > > Survival is related to the metastatic disease---not the primary tumor in the breast. > There > > is no question that sometimes a mastectomy is warrented; but not in the numbers that > are > > currently being performed in this country. Once upon a time unnecessary > hysterectomies > > were common, as were unnecessary tonsillectomies. Eventually, I believe women will > > realize that there is an awful lot of unjustified major surgery being performed; and > there > > will be a lot of anger and resentment. Anne V. > > > > > My name is Debbie. I am 51 years old. I am married. My husband and I have > > > been married for almost 33 years. We have a son, daughter-in- law and a > > > precious 2 year old grandson. I have always been in good health..no major > > > problems. However, I had a mammogram as part of my YP, and was told when it > > > came back that I needed to arrange to have another one in 6 mos. So I did > > > in July 2006. This time my gynecologist called me himself and told me the > > > results and that I needed to have a biopsy just to be safe. It showed > > > microcalcifications. He called and set me up to see a surgeon. He went > > > over the mammogram with us and we had the biopsy on Oct. 6, 2006. The > > > surgeon told my family that everything looked okay, but would have to wait > > > on pathology report. Last Wed. I got the news. On Friday we went to his > > > office and he explained it to us. He said it was pre-cancer, but yet still > > > cancer. It is located in the milk duct behind the nipple. It is very > > > small.(Radiologists said it was a miracle the mammogram showed it). It was > > > classified as DCIS(ductal carcinoma in situ). Non- invasive...hasn't spread, > > > still in same area. So we were given the option to have either lumpectomy > > > with radiation or mastectomy with no radiation. After much prayer and > > > talking with a some friends who had both, we decided to have mastectomy. I > > > go tomorrow morning to make the arrangements. He said they would > > > reconstructive surgery at the same time. I would have to see a plastic > > > surgeon prior to the surgery. My husband and I are both apprehensive. We > > > just want it to be over. I'm also not sure what is the best reconstructive > > > method. I think I would rather have it come from my own body. Can anyone > > > share with me their experience? > > > Thanks > > > Debbie > > > Call Upon ME in the day of trouble; I will deliver thee. > > > Psalm 50:15 > > > > > > > > > > > > God Is Good!! > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > ---------------------------------------------------------- > -- > > > > > > No virus found in this incoming message. > > Checked by AVG Free Edition. > > Version: 7.1.408 / Virus Database: 268.13.4/480 - Release Date: 10/17/2006 > > > > > > Quote
Guest guest Posted October 19, 2006 Report Posted October 19, 2006 It probably depends on more than just one factor, but I had a full mastectomy and did not have to have radiation for that reason. ~ Francine _____________________________ Did I read somewhere that if you have a full mastectomy you dont need radiation? Does anyone know? char Quote
Guest guest Posted October 19, 2006 Report Posted October 19, 2006 I also had a mastectomy and no radiation. It depends where your dcis or tumor is and if you have lymph nodes involved. Sorry, Char, but I forgot what you had. - Francine Kilmer wrote on 10/19/2006, 6:22 PM: > It probably depends on more than just one factor, but I had a full > mastectomy and did not have to have radiation for that reason. > ~ Francine > _____________________________ > > Did I read somewhere that if you have a full mastectomy you dont need > radiation? Does anyone know? > > char > > > > Quote
Guest guest Posted October 19, 2006 Report Posted October 19, 2006 -Where it is in the breast/location? Gosh I feel stupid on this stuff and all the terms. But location wise, just to the side of my nipple. I have DCIS. I still have to go in for more removeal of tissue. I had a 3cm clear margin around it? Stage 0, but the surgeon said they perfer 5. He said they would check my lymph nodes then. -- In breastcancer2 , wrote: > > I also had a mastectomy and no radiation. It depends where your dcis or > tumor is and if you have lymph nodes involved. Sorry, Char, but I forgot > what you had. > > - > > Francine Kilmer wrote on 10/19/2006, 6:22 PM: > > > It probably depends on more than just one factor, but I had a full > > mastectomy and did not have to have radiation for that reason. > > ~ Francine > > _____________________________ > > > > Did I read somewhere that if you have a full mastectomy you dont need > > radiation? Does anyone know? > > > > char > > > > > > > > > Quote
Guest guest Posted October 19, 2006 Report Posted October 19, 2006 Char, They were thinking of radiation after my mastectomy but changed the plan to just chemo. It depends on stage, grade etc. Hugs nne Breast Cancer Patients Soul Mates for Life http://www.geocities.com/chucky5741/breastcancerpatients.html BreastCancerStories.com http://www.breastcancerstories.com/content/view/433/161/ Angel Feather Loomer www.angelfeatherloomer.blogspot.com Check out my other ornaments at www.geocities.com/chucky5741/bcornament.html Lots of info and gifts at: www.cancerclub.com Re: DCIS I agree, thats where I am, just dont know what I am going to do. Cancer in one.. remove one? Or both? Or partical mastectomy?. Did I read somewhere that if you have a full mastectomy you dont need radiation? Does anyone know? char > > >I don't get it. Why are so many people with single sites of DCIS having such radical > > surgery? DCIS will only evolve into invasive cancer 50% of the time. Random breast > biopsys > > on anyone (over a certain age) will probably reveal DCIS a large proportion of the time. > I > > could see if a person had previous breast cancer, or had genetic markers (BRACA 1 or > 2), > > or had multiple sites of DCIS, then one could justify the radical procedures. I am afraid > > that some people are unnecessarily scared by hearing the words " breast cancer " , and > are > > being manipulated by their fear into wanting some magic procedure that will free them > > from ever having to even think about cancer again. But the reality is that there is no > > increased survival with having a mastectomy, even when invasive cancer is present. > > Survival is related to the metastatic disease---not the primary tumor in the breast. > There > > is no question that sometimes a mastectomy is warrented; but not in the numbers that > are > > currently being performed in this country. Once upon a time unnecessary > hysterectomies > > were common, as were unnecessary tonsillectomies. Eventually, I believe women will > > realize that there is an awful lot of unjustified major surgery being performed; and > there > > will be a lot of anger and resentment. Anne V. > > > > > My name is Debbie. I am 51 years old. I am married. My husband and I have > > > been married for almost 33 years. We have a son, daughter-in- law and a > > > precious 2 year old grandson. I have always been in good health..no major > > > problems. However, I had a mammogram as part of my YP, and was told when it > > > came back that I needed to arrange to have another one in 6 mos. So I did > > > in July 2006. This time my gynecologist called me himself and told me the > > > results and that I needed to have a biopsy just to be safe. It showed > > > microcalcifications. He called and set me up to see a surgeon. He went > > > over the mammogram with us and we had the biopsy on Oct. 6, 2006. The > > > surgeon told my family that everything looked okay, but would have to wait > > > on pathology report. Last Wed. I got the news. On Friday we went to his > > > office and he explained it to us. He said it was pre-cancer, but yet still > > > cancer. It is located in the milk duct behind the nipple. It is very > > > small.(Radiologists said it was a miracle the mammogram showed it). It was > > > classified as DCIS(ductal carcinoma in situ). Non- invasive...hasn't spread, > > > still in same area. So we were given the option to have either lumpectomy > > > with radiation or mastectomy with no radiation. After much prayer and > > > talking with a some friends who had both, we decided to have mastectomy. I > > > go tomorrow morning to make the arrangements. He said they would > > > reconstructive surgery at the same time. I would have to see a plastic > > > surgeon prior to the surgery. My husband and I are both apprehensive. We > > > just want it to be over. I'm also not sure what is the best reconstructive > > > method. I think I would rather have it come from my own body. Can anyone > > > share with me their experience? > > > Thanks > > > Debbie > > > Call Upon ME in the day of trouble; I will deliver thee. > > > Psalm 50:15 > > > > > > > > > > > > God Is Good!! > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > ---------------------------------------------------------- > -- > > > > > > No virus found in this incoming message. > > Checked by AVG Free Edition. > > Version: 7.1.408 / Virus Database: 268.13.4/480 - Release Date: 10/17/2006 > > > > > > Quote
Guest guest Posted October 20, 2006 Report Posted October 20, 2006 I've been diagnosed with DCIS too. Several locations in the right breast (3). I'm having a mastectomy on Nov. 9th. The oncologist and surgeon both recommended the mastectomy. After researching on breast cancer.org I came to the same conclusion. I had my pathology report and MRI results to help with my research. Personally, I'm choosing to have both removed. It is a peace of mind for me. I would have to go for an MRI or Mammo every 6 months if not taking this course. After waiting thru the biopsy/path/MRI I don't feel that I could take the worry and waiting for results every 6 months. I do realize that means I'm not in the clear but mentally it is right for me. My left breast has the same " makeup " that my right had on my last mammo. (calcifications/cysts) I don't post much but love reading of everyone's experiences. I too am scared to death of the whole thing. Never had a major operation in my entire life (53 yrs). No medication, etc. Anyway, I'm along for the " ride " , so to speak!! Thank you all for being there!! Diane - PA > > > > >I don't get it. Why are so many people with single sites of > > DCIS having such radical > > > > surgery? DCIS will only evolve into invasive cancer 50% of the > > > > time. Random breast > > > biopsys > > > > on anyone (over a certain age) will probably reveal DCIS a > > large proportion of the time. > > > I > > > > could see if a person had previous breast cancer, or had > > genetic markers (BRACA 1 or > > > 2), > > > > or had multiple sites of DCIS, then one could justify the > > radical procedures. I am afraid > > > > that some people are unnecessarily scared by hearing the > > words " breast cancer " , and > > > are > > > > being manipulated by their fear into wanting some magic > > procedure that will free them > > > > from ever having to even think about cancer again. But the > > reality is that there is no > > > > increased survival with having a mastectomy, even when > > invasive > > cancer is present. > > > > Survival is related to the metastatic disease---not the > > primary > > tumor in the breast. > > > There > > > > is no question that sometimes a mastectomy is warrented; but > > not in the numbers that > > > are > > > > currently being performed in this country. Once upon a time > > unnecessary > > > hysterectomies > > > > were common, as were unnecessary tonsillectomies. Eventually, > > I > > believe women will > > > > realize that there is an awful lot of unjustified major > > surgery > > being performed; and > > > there > > > > will be a lot of anger and resentment. Anne V. > > > > > > > > > My name is Debbie. I am 51 years old. I am married. My > > husband and I have > > > > > been married for almost 33 years. We have a son, > > daughter-in- > > law and a > > > > > precious 2 year old grandson. I have always been in good > > health..no major > > > > > problems. However, I had a mammogram as part of my YP, and > > was told when it > > > > > came back that I needed to arrange to have another one in 6 > > mos. So I did > > > > > in July 2006. This time my gynecologist called me himself > > and > > told me the > > > > > results and that I needed to have a biopsy just to be safe. > > It showed > > > > > microcalcifications. He called and set me up to see a > > surgeon. He went > > > > > over the mammogram with us and we had the biopsy on Oct. 6, > > 2006. The > > > > > surgeon told my family that everything looked okay, but > > would > > have to wait > > > > > on pathology report. Last Wed. I got the news. On Friday we > > went to his > > > > > office and he explained it to us. He said it was pre- cancer, > > > > but yet still > > > > > cancer. It is located in the milk duct behind the nipple. It > > > > is very > > > > > small.(Radiologists said it was a miracle the mammogram > > showed it). It was > > > > > classified as DCIS(ductal carcinoma in situ). Non- > > invasive...hasn't spread, > > > > > still in same area. So we were given the option to have > > either lumpectomy > > > > > with radiation or mastectomy with no radiation. After much > > prayer and > > > > > talking with a some friends who had both, we decided to have > > > > mastectomy. I > > > > > go tomorrow morning to make the arrangements. He said they > > would > > > > > reconstructive surgery at the same time. I would have to see > > > > a plastic > > > > > surgeon prior to the surgery. My husband and I are both > > apprehensive. We > > > > > just want it to be over. I'm also not sure what is the best > > reconstructive > > > > > method. I think I would rather have it come from my own > > body. > > Can anyone > > > > > share with me their experience? > > > > > Thanks > > > > > Debbie > > > > > Call Upon ME in the day of trouble; I will deliver thee. > > > > > Psalm 50:15 > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > God Is Good!! > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > ---------------------------------------------------------- > > > -- > > > > > > > > > > > > No virus found in this incoming message. > > > > Checked by AVG Free Edition. > > > > Version: 7.1.408 / Virus Database: 268.13.4/480 - Release > > Date: > > 10/17/2006 > > > > > > > > > > > > Quote
Guest guest Posted October 20, 2006 Report Posted October 20, 2006 Diane, My mastectomy was a breeze. I didn't need any pain meds or anything. Just had whatever they gave me in surgery and that was it. I was out and about the day I came home. Its really not that bad. Hang in there. We are here for you. I will keep you in my prayers. Hugs nne Breast Cancer Patients Soul Mates for Life http://www.geocities.com/chucky5741/breastcancerpatients.html BreastCancerStories.com http://www.breastcancerstories.com/content/view/433/161/ Angel Feather Loomer www.angelfeatherloomer.blogspot.com Check out my other ornaments at www.geocities.com/chucky5741/bcornament.html Lots of info and gifts at: www.cancerclub.com Re: DCIS I've been diagnosed with DCIS too. Several locations in the right breast (3). I'm having a mastectomy on Nov. 9th. The oncologist and surgeon both recommended the mastectomy. After researching on breast cancer.org I came to the same conclusion. I had my pathology report and MRI results to help with my research. Personally, I'm choosing to have both removed. It is a peace of mind for me. I would have to go for an MRI or Mammo every 6 months if not taking this course. After waiting thru the biopsy/path/MRI I don't feel that I could take the worry and waiting for results every 6 months. I do realize that means I'm not in the clear but mentally it is right for me. My left breast has the same " makeup " that my right had on my last mammo. (calcifications/cysts) I don't post much but love reading of everyone's experiences. I too am scared to death of the whole thing. Never had a major operation in my entire life (53 yrs). No medication, etc. Anyway, I'm along for the " ride " , so to speak!! Thank you all for being there!! Diane - PA > > > > >I don't get it. Why are so many people with single sites of > > DCIS having such radical > > > > surgery? DCIS will only evolve into invasive cancer 50% of the > > > > time. Random breast > > > biopsys > > > > on anyone (over a certain age) will probably reveal DCIS a > > large proportion of the time. > > > I > > > > could see if a person had previous breast cancer, or had > > genetic markers (BRACA 1 or > > > 2), > > > > or had multiple sites of DCIS, then one could justify the > > radical procedures. I am afraid > > > > that some people are unnecessarily scared by hearing the > > words " breast cancer " , and > > > are > > > > being manipulated by their fear into wanting some magic > > procedure that will free them > > > > from ever having to even think about cancer again. But the > > reality is that there is no > > > > increased survival with having a mastectomy, even when > > invasive > > cancer is present. > > > > Survival is related to the metastatic disease---not the > > primary > > tumor in the breast. > > > There > > > > is no question that sometimes a mastectomy is warrented; but > > not in the numbers that > > > are > > > > currently being performed in this country. Once upon a time > > unnecessary > > > hysterectomies > > > > were common, as were unnecessary tonsillectomies. Eventually, > > I > > believe women will > > > > realize that there is an awful lot of unjustified major > > surgery > > being performed; and > > > there > > > > will be a lot of anger and resentment. Anne V. > > > > > > > > > My name is Debbie. I am 51 years old. I am married. My > > husband and I have > > > > > been married for almost 33 years. We have a son, > > daughter-in- > > law and a > > > > > precious 2 year old grandson. I have always been in good > > health..no major > > > > > problems. However, I had a mammogram as part of my YP, and > > was told when it > > > > > came back that I needed to arrange to have another one in 6 > > mos. So I did > > > > > in July 2006. This time my gynecologist called me himself > > and > > told me the > > > > > results and that I needed to have a biopsy just to be safe. > > It showed > > > > > microcalcifications. He called and set me up to see a > > surgeon. He went > > > > > over the mammogram with us and we had the biopsy on Oct. 6, > > 2006. The > > > > > surgeon told my family that everything looked okay, but > > would > > have to wait > > > > > on pathology report. Last Wed. I got the news. On Friday we > > went to his > > > > > office and he explained it to us. He said it was pre- cancer, > > > > but yet still > > > > > cancer. It is located in the milk duct behind the nipple. It > > > > is very > > > > > small.(Radiologists said it was a miracle the mammogram > > showed it). It was > > > > > classified as DCIS(ductal carcinoma in situ). Non- > > invasive...hasn't spread, > > > > > still in same area. So we were given the option to have > > either lumpectomy > > > > > with radiation or mastectomy with no radiation. After much > > prayer and > > > > > talking with a some friends who had both, we decided to have > > > > mastectomy. I > > > > > go tomorrow morning to make the arrangements. He said they > > would > > > > > reconstructive surgery at the same time. I would have to see > > > > a plastic > > > > > surgeon prior to the surgery. My husband and I are both > > apprehensive. We > > > > > just want it to be over. I'm also not sure what is the best > > reconstructive > > > > > method. I think I would rather have it come from my own > > body. > > Can anyone > > > > > share with me their experience? > > > > > Thanks > > > > > Debbie > > > > > Call Upon ME in the day of trouble; I will deliver thee. > > > > > Psalm 50:15 > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > God Is Good!! > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > ---------------------------------------------------------- > > > -- > > > > > > > > > > > > No virus found in this incoming message. > > > > Checked by AVG Free Edition. > > > > Version: 7.1.408 / Virus Database: 268.13.4/480 - Release > > Date: > > 10/17/2006 > > > > > > > > > > > > Quote
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