Too many mammograms and Radial Seed Localization for Lumpectomy

Ottawan

Hi All,

I am having a lumpectomy for UDH and radial scar (0.7cm) in my left breast and fibroadenoma in my right and my surgeon suggested implanting radioactive seed 7 days before surgery date. Seeds on Monday and surgery the following Monday. I have a lot of concerns related to radiation I will be exposed to. I am 33 yo. I already got mammogram post- core needle biopsy in May and I am aware that carrying seeds for 7 days equals to 2 mammogram pictures for each breast, total of 4 mammograms equivalent for carrying 2 seeds for 7 days. I was told that post-planting seeds another mammogram will be done to confirm the placement. I am already at a total of 4 mammogram shots for left breast and 3 for the right. I get it: the precision and more comfort aspect of RSL, however I also know that the protocol for mammograms is 2 pictures for a breast in a year for non-high risk patients. Since I have only benign condition, do I need to be exposed to this? Does anyone know the harms of being exposed to this much of mammograms in short period of time? What is my cumulative risk over lifetime? Will I be better off with wire localization procedure?

Any input appreciated! I am really overwhelmed. Please, help!