DCIS - Mastectomy or Central Excision?

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Anci
Anci Member Posts: 4

Hi,

This is my first post.  I am based in Ireland.  I have been diagnosed with low grade DCIS.  I have had my second surgery that has come back with one area of unclear margin.  My options now are central excision v's mastectomy and reconstrution. Former is being recommended by hospital, however, I have not been able to find anyone who has been through this procedure.  Really need to weigh the positives and negatives of both up!  Sadly lacking in info for central excision - can anyone help?  Anci xx

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  • sweatyspice
    sweatyspice Member Posts: 922
    edited May 2010

    I've never heard the term "central excision," not sure what it means.  Can you clarify what they mean by that?

  • Anci
    Anci Member Posts: 4
    edited May 2010

    Hi,

    "Central excision" means that they take the nipple and the area around it, so you are left with a lateral scar, not sure how long. Shape of the top of the breast remains the same as does the underside however the area where the nipple was become completely flat.  Hope this makes sense. Anci

  • sweatyspice
    sweatyspice Member Posts: 922
    edited May 2010

    Interesting.  I've never heard of that, maybe it's not commonly done in the US...  I hope someone stops by who knows more about it!

  • Anci
    Anci Member Posts: 4
    edited May 2010

    Keep your fingers crossed!  Desperately trying to gather as much info as possible before I make my decision!

  • sweatyspice
    sweatyspice Member Posts: 922
    edited May 2010

    You might also try posting in the Surgery forum.....

    Shouldn't you be asleep, it's after 1am in Ireland!  Or have you joined the "I can't sleep anymore" club?

    Best wishes! 

  • Anci
    Anci Member Posts: 4
    edited May 2010

    Thanks for the heads up, will look into that forum. 

    Sleep - what's that?!

    Thanks again

  • redsox
    redsox Member Posts: 523
    edited May 2010

    Anci,

    I agree that central excision is not commonly done in the US.  If excision of the nipple and areola is needed most would do mastectomy. Cosmetic results rather than medical needs drive that, though.  It seems like it might make sense to do central excision if you know you would not do reconstruction after a mastectomy anyway.

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