re-excision surgery with a breast lift

katehudson25

Hi, I have a 4mm idc tumor, well differentiated grade 1. I am having re-excision surgery with a sentinel node biopsy Monday August 1. My surgical onc told me that besides clearing my margins he is going to lift my breast. Has anyone had a lift, and to only one breast? If, so how did it look in comparison to your other breast? Of course, then I would like to have my other breast lifted. Does anyone know if insurace will cover it? I am going to see my surgeon again on Wednesday so I can get answers, but I was just wondering if anyone else has bee through this. For my lumpectomy I did not need a drain. For the re-excision my surgeon wants to use one. Could someone who  had a drain tell me how uncomfortable it is, and how it needs to be cared for.

catbill

Hi

I had a single drain on each side after BMX last October.  They have to be cleaned, a process called "stripping", several times per day. (or more)  While inconvenient all the time to say the least, the only painful time was during the stripping process.  The drains can lay on nerves and in this process, the nerves are stirred up and they sent a painful burning sensation across my chest for a few minutes.  I only took pain meds when it was time to strip the drains.  My husband was shown how to do while I was still in the hospital, so that became his job.  I had my drains for slightly less than 2 weeks.  The drains do help prevent lymphedema, so try to keep a positive thought about them.

katehudson25

Hi catbill, Thank you for letting me know.

katehudson25

Hi to all of those supporting me. I have great news. I just came home from an appointment with my surgeon. I do not have lymph node involvement, and my margins are clear. I am stage 1 Thank God.