Posted by Nancy (post) on April 23, 2008, 8:01 am
70.104.111.179
In May of '06 I had a lumpectomy for what turned out to be a 2.5 cm. CA in my right breast.
It was Stage 2 (due to size), grade 1, ERPR+, no nodes, no mets., HER2 neg., clear margins. I underwent radiation and have been on Arimidex for 1 1/2 yrs. Last Sept. I had bilateral implants, and you may guess, the tissue contracted on the underside of the affected breast. With the firmness of the area, particularly where the scar is, I think it would be virtually impossible to palpate new growth underneath that. Digital mammogram screening is only done yearly after the first 6 months (and exam by med. onc. q. 6 mos.)
My medical oncologist says I have nothing but more scars to gain by more surgery. For peace of mind, I'm considering mastectomy completion with immediate DIEP flap reconstruction. Am I foolish to think that removal of all the breast tissue (including nipple and areola) is a wiser choice? What would you advise? I'm 60 years young. Thanks!
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