Yet another mammogram right after lumpectomy

Paco

I had my post-op appointment after lumpectomy for DCIS, grade 2. The surgeon told me that the margins were all wide and clear, except for the anterior margin close to the skin, but she also said there was nothing left to take so no further surgery will be necessary. However, she scheduled me for a mammogram on March 5. I don't see the point of this mammogram as I had a mammogram guided biopsy done on 12/28 and then a radioactive seed placed prior to surgery also guided by a mammogram on the day before surgery for her use .

On the same date, March 5, I already have an appointment with my radiation oncologist to set up my radiation. Why on earth would I need yet another mammogram looking for calcifications? It seems like overkill and an abundance of caution since I'll have a follow up mammogram in six months. At this point, I'm seriously tired of getting squeezed and don't relish the thought of more unnecessary exposure.

Any thoughts from you ladies who've been there?

Annette47

I think the early mammogram (after surgery or radiation) is more to get a baseline of what the breast looks like now with all the scarring etc, as that can change over time.

tlfrank

My first Mamo is not scheduled until May. I had the lumpectomy in early October and finished rads on 12/13, started tamoxifen on 1/15/18. I find it very interesting that so many of us are on such different schedules and treatments.

mommykarin

I just had 2 lumpectomies. The 2nd had clear margins and I started getting set up for radiation. The radiation oncologist wanted another mammogram so I had that done this week. It is positive for calcifications in the area of my lumpectomies. So I'd advise getting the repeat mammogram. I'm not sure what my course will be next.

Tresjoli2

I had to have a mammo after my lumpectomy. Your RO is being thorough. He's making absolutely sure there is no more DCIS. He won't want to start rads til he's completely convinced you're clear. Ask for pain medication. I'll be honest, it hurts like hell after the surgery you've had. But its worth it.

kaywrite

I've had two lumpectomies, and still have one positive margin, the anterior, with no tissue left to take. I have been sent on to radiology.

I did not have a mammogram after either of the lumpectomies. I was told I'd get a baseline post-lumpectomy, but now I get to ask when that will happen! Radiology on Friday. Will ask then.

Paco

kaywrite I have a mammogram directly prior to my radiation consult next Tuesday. I asked if it was strictly necessary and why not at 6 months out. They were pretty insistent that I get it, even though I'm still feeling pretty sore from surgery (worse now at 2 weeks out than I did a few days after...?)

CTMOM1234

I agree with the earlier posters, your doctor is being thorough and it's also good to have a baseline before starting rads. It's been some years since I had that first mammogram after my lumpectomy, but I still have a little ptsd remembering how nervous I was to be squished (it wasn't nearly as painful/uncomfortable as I'd imagined, you'll be OK).