December 2015 Surgeries

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sbeddows123
sbeddows123 Member Posts: 15
edited December 2015 in Surgery - Before, During, and After

Hi All....so I am tentatively booked for Dec 21st.....Christmas is going to be interesting :) Is there anyone who had neoadjuvant with at least one positive lymph node who is not getting a complete axillary dissection? There was discussion for me to just have the first level taken then do sentinel biopsies of level 2 but I was gung ho on just getting everything removed as i did have 1 confirmed lymph node before starting chemo..... now I am wondering if that is the best decision.....I am brca1 and have a strong family Hx. Thanks all!!

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  • gaspasser
    gaspasser Member Posts: 34
    edited October 2015

    Hi everyone. I'm new to the boards but am just so so thankful to have found you all! I'm tentatively booked for a bilateral prophylactic mastectomy the first week of December. Tissue expander to implant eventually. Strong family history and genetic testing positive. I was diagnosed with melanoma at 17 and then again at 18 as well. Although I work inanesthesia, it's quite different planning being on the other side of the fence this time. I'm a bit nervous. So I'm glad to have some company in you all! I had a mammogram with extremely dense tissue in September, so a MRI was recommended. I had a small oval mass 1cm by 7mm by 7mm show up that I am having a second look ultrasound tomorrow morning. My normal zen self is a bit of a anxious one tonight! Glad to be sharing the journey with an amazing group such as you all. Thanks!

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  • Moderators
    Moderators Member Posts: 25,912
    edited October 2015

    And we're glad you've found us gaspasser, welcome!

    As a suggestion, and if you want to connect with others who have tested positive for genetic mutations, check out the Positive Genetic Test Results forum, and feel free to post also there!

    Hope this helps.

    The Mods

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  • JerseyGirl22
    JerseyGirl22 Member Posts: 342
    edited October 2015

    Hi Warrior Women!

    I'm scheduled for a BMX (cancer right side, prophylactic on left) for either December 7th or 8th, waiting for final confirmation from surgeon and plastic surgeon. They will do skin conservation on the "bad" side since I have to have rads before they can do the reconstruction. Expander put in during mastecomy of good side, and expander put in on other side after rads... I'm having the blood draw for genetics testing, after my last chemo on Nov. 2nd... although that's really not going to affect my surgery at this point, since I'm doing the BMX. So starts the countdown to final chemo, and all preliminary tests before surgery (MRI, ECHO, etc.)

    I'm so happy that this thread was started.... If you get a chance, go out to this blog... it's wonderfully empowering, and postiive... regarding mastectomy...

    http://www.mybreastchoiceshow.com/blog/

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  • gaspasser
    gaspasser Member Posts: 34
    edited October 2015

    Hi again,


    So I had my second look ultrasound and they decided to core biopsy the one mass. I'm almost glad I didn't know they would biopsy the same day as the second look ultrasound because then I didn't have to worry about it ahead of time! Regardless, I'm unfamiliar a bit with the BIRADS they use. They call it BIRADS 4. 7mm oval hypoechoic mass. Anyone familiar with this BIRADS in relationship to this? Regardless, all of this along with the genetic testing has solidified that doing the preventative mastectomy is the correct choice for me. Thanks, and I'm so thankful to have some wonderful people like you to have sharing the "wait" for surgery.

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  • MrsGreenJeans
    MrsGreenJeans Member Posts: 95
    edited October 2015

    Hi gaspasser,

    I am scheduled for the same surgery (PBMX with tissue expanders) on 12/2. I have LCIS and strong family history, BRCA negative but getting wider genetic testing due to many other cancers in my family.

    The BIRADS 4 means that your mass is suspicious but doesn't have the appearance of a typical malignancy. There are further sub categories within BIRADS 4.

    4a means unlikely to be malignant, 4b means moderate chance of malignancy, and 4c means higher likelihood of malignancy. I will pray for you that your results are benign. My most recent mass was found to be a benign fibroadenoma (one of many I've had) but they did find the LCIS within the tissue sample.

    Best of luck to all of our other sisters with upcoming surgeries. Prayers for all.

    Jean

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  • BethL
    BethL Member Posts: 286
    edited November 2015

    I have just gotten my surgery date of Dec. 4th. I had thought it would be November, but relieved it's not. I am in school and am in a very difficult course that ends November 30th. I was so worried about this, but it worked out for the best. I am going in for a BMX with tissue expanders at the same time, and a total node dissection. Cancer in the left breast, for the second time, first time 10 years ago. I had a sentinel node dissection then so my surgeon doesn't believe she can map the new cancer. It took me a long time to decide which surgery to go for, finally feel confident I'm doing the right thing for me. Doesn't make it easy, I'm scared. Sorry we're all here, but glad to have found this group and know that we'll be there for each other!!

    Beth

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  • gaspasser
    gaspasser Member Posts: 34
    edited November 2015

    Thanks for the reply MissGreenJeans. So it ended up being atypical ductal hyperplasia on one area and a papilloma on another from the core biopsy. They consulted breast surgery just to have it excised because they called it a high risk lesion. But because I just got my PBMX date of December 8th with the breast surgeon at the hospital I'm going with I don't think this will change any plans. I'm using a breast surgeon and plastic surgeon out of a different facility than the original screening MRI and biopsy were done so is why the separate surgery consult was put in. So long story short, my breast surgeon said no need to excise this area from the biopsy since it's all coming out December 8th with the PBMX! I'm glad to have you all to share the journey with!


    Sara

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  • HappyHammer
    HappyHammer Member Posts: 1,247
    edited November 2015

    Ok, so, is there anyone who had IDC...and, then did targeted therapies/chemo...so NED at LUMP and SNB....however, there was some DCIS. The ONC is saying it will all be taken care of with RADS....SUrgeon says...technically, I have had 2 different cancers in same breast so MX may be in order(that is what they would have done a year ago for sure!) BUT that with the new targeted therapy....there just isn't enough long term data to know what to do......what have YOU done if anyone has been in this same boat? I had the LUMP thinking that I would do MX if I had a recurrence....just didn't think it would happen DURING the LUMP, right?....and, maybe it didn't. Hugs to all of you...this journey is a CRAZY one! So glad y'all are there.

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  • MrsGreenJeans
    MrsGreenJeans Member Posts: 95
    edited November 2015

    Gaspasser, so glad to hear your biopsy didn't turn up anything worse!! My surgery is one month from today, I need to start making plans and getting everything ready. I will be pouring over the thread with suggestions of what I may need to make everything easier. Lots to do!

    HappyHammer, sorry you got more bad news. I hope someone on here can help you out.

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  • NJ-Jen
    NJ-Jen Member Posts: 64
    edited November 2015

    I am booked for my bmx and diep on 12/14. Been a long time coming. I already got some special shirts with inside pockets to hold drains, button down jammies, button down shirts, and slip on slippers with good grip.

    Making up a bag with stuff for hospital like coloring books and pencils, headphones, lip balm, wipes, charger, slippers, pajamas, one of the special shirts, and gum and mints. What are you packing

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  • MrsGreenJeans
    MrsGreenJeans Member Posts: 95
    edited November 2015

    NJ, good for you. You are way ahead of me with prep. I've got some work to do.

    Singing

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  • NJ-Jen
    NJ-Jen Member Posts: 64
    edited November 2015

    Sadly this will be my 14th major surgery but my first cancer. My last surgery was a hysterectomy (open) and before that I had both adrenals removed. Not looking forward to this one though as I know abdominal surgeries are no fun and this is my first chest so the combo cannot be fun.

    You have plenty of time though, green jeans, so a few trips to get pajamas and clothes will really help. I also got a lot on line. Good luck on your stock up

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  • Mondy
    Mondy Member Posts: 2
    edited November 2015

    I wish you luck for your sx.

    I am waiting for my doctor to schedule me for month of December, Bi lateral mastectomy and reconstruction sx.!


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  • gaspasser
    gaspasser Member Posts: 34
    edited November 2015

    Hi,


    Got my official date of December 8th for my PBMX. I'm relieved to have a date....but starting to worry about the recovery. I have a 6, 4, and 3 year old and I'm worried about the holiday rushes with them. I'm trying to get help lined up, read all the threads I can. But I'm getting a bit nervous! So thankful for the support this threadwill hopefully be.


    Sara

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  • Smurfette26
    Smurfette26 Member Posts: 730
    edited November 2015

    Hope it all goes well for you Sara.

    I have chemo on the 22nd of December so Christmas will be a bit of a non event for us this year.

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  • gaspasser
    gaspasser Member Posts: 34
    edited November 2015

    Smurfette I'll be thinking of you!


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  • BethL
    BethL Member Posts: 286
    edited November 2015

    Just curious - where do you find shirts with special pockets for drains? Or are they just pocketed shirts? My mother bought me a few button down pajama shirts, thankfully because I wasn't thinking about that. She also said I should move a recliner into my room. Her neighbor said it was the only way she could sleep for the first couple weeks after surgery. Countdown - 20 days. Ugh. Anxiety is getting pretty bad. Thinking about asking for a little pharmaceutical help!


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  • NJ-Jen
    NJ-Jen Member Posts: 64
    edited November 2015

    I got mine from healing in comfort. They have a kit that comes with the first shirt that includes a lanyard and a pouch to hold the drains in the shower and with normal clothing. They are made loose and have Velcro closures. They are also available on Amazon, but no kit. I saw others but most were out of stock in many colors, or were sleeveless which was not going to work for me.

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  • JerseyGirl22
    JerseyGirl22 Member Posts: 342
    edited November 2015

    Thanks for that tip NJ-Jen, I've been looking all over and not really finding a shirt that would work.... Still waiting on the confirmation date for surgery should be Dec. 7 or 8.... getting a little nervous, and ansty...

    Warrior on, women! Warrior on!

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  • BethL
    BethL Member Posts: 286
    edited November 2015

    njjen, thanks. Gonna look tonight in hopes of getting them before surgery. Jerseygirl, I feel your anxiety! I had a date 5 weeks prior to surgery date but it's flying by. I'm convinced I'm gonna end up with some kind of virus/flu. Just paranoid, but everywhere I go someone is coughing. We need to stay clear of germs!!!

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  • JerseyGirl22
    JerseyGirl22 Member Posts: 342
    edited November 2015

    Got confirmation on the surgery date December 7th it is... now to stay strong and healthy for surgery.

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  • NJ-Jen
    NJ-Jen Member Posts: 64
    edited November 2015

    good luck Jersey girl

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  • Truffles1968
    Truffles1968 Member Posts: 33
    edited November 2015

    My surgery date was delayed from 11/9 to 12/4 when I opted to have the surgery out of state at Johns Hopkins. I was so ready to have the cancer cut out the day I was diagnosed- the wait is really hard. Having surgery so close to Christmas with 4 young kids is adding to the stress- I am trying to get all my shopping and wrapping done now, plus getting oil changed, getting house organized for family coming to watch kids, etc. All those things I put off that I can't put off any more. I am having a BMX with tissue expanders, PS is going to put the expanders over the muscle to hopefully cut down on pain and recovery time. I really hope it works. And BS is going to try nipple sparing, not even an option locally. What month this will be for all of us having surgery, having chemo, etc. 2016 will be better!

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  • JerseyGirl22
    JerseyGirl22 Member Posts: 342
    edited November 2015

    Truffles1968, I'm doing the same thing... I think I overdid today though with all the cleaning, running errands, making freezer meals etc...... I keep forgetting that even though they gave me Herceptin and Perjeta for my last infusion, I still have some side effects rearing their ugly heads. Feeling a little worn out today after feeling so good for the last week... dialing down, can't get sick before surgery!!!!

    Smurfette26, I was actually thankful to have the neoadjvuant therapy when I looked at my timeline. Finished Chemo Nov. 10th... so, even though I'm dealing with some residual side effects, I'm glad to be done with that part before the holidays... Surgery won't be a picnic, but I feel like at least I'll be in recovery/recuperating mode... Of course, going into the holiday I'll still be recuperating, and they have every post op appt known to man racked and stacked through the 23rd of Dec. What chemo regimen are you having?

    gaspasser, we're a day apart for surgery.... I'll be thinking of you!

    BethL, your date is coming up quick... praying you through any anxiety you may have... I'm having my moments in that department... I won't be having reconstruction, and my surgeon has her associate doing the other side, so that they will work simultaneously to reduce my time in surgery... happy about that!

    Praying for every one of us out here!

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  • ChiSandy
    ChiSandy Member Posts: 12,133
    edited November 2015

    Have you tried CureDiva.com? They carry post-mastectomy apparel with pockets for drains.

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  • Smurfette26
    Smurfette26 Member Posts: 730
    edited November 2015

    JerseyGirl22 I'm doing 4 rounds of Taxotere/Cytoxan. Had my first on Nov 10th and still struggling.

    Had bloods done yesterday and the nurse called with the results this morning.

    My Neutrophils have bottomed out to 0.0



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  • MrsGreenJeans
    MrsGreenJeans Member Posts: 95
    edited November 2015

    Just checking in, ladies. My surgery date is exactly 2 weeks from today. Feeling good about it right now. I feel mentally ready, and have made some preparations regarding things I may need.

    Thinking of all of you, and keeping good thoughts as you undergo your treatments and procedures.

    Jean

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  • JerseyGirl22
    JerseyGirl22 Member Posts: 342
    edited November 2015

    MrsGreenJeans, that's quick... praying for you! I'm doing prep and mentally preparing, too... I feel good about my surgical decision, just get anxious about the actual surgery and time in hospital. I want this ick out of me!

    Smurfette26, I hear ya, I was doing TCHP and it bottomed out my hemoglobin and I had to have a blood transfusion before round 5... rest, rest, rest... fluids, fluids, fluids... keep calories up... praying you through it...

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  • JerseyGirl22
    JerseyGirl22 Member Posts: 342
    edited November 2015

    Ok, just got the call this morning... my surgery is moved up to Nov. 30th... I'm still staying on this thread, ha! They had a major scheduling thing come up and would've had to move me to Dec. 22nd.... YIKES! I'm thankful it's earlier, although I'm not gonna get as much prep done as I thought I would...

    Warrior On!


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  • MrsGreenJeans
    MrsGreenJeans Member Posts: 95
    edited November 2015

    JerseyGirl22, now THAT is quick! So much better sooner than later.

    Smile

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