Bilat Mastectomy w/ Expanders Done

[skeetur]

Had my bilateral mastectomies with expander implants done on Friday 3/2. I'm glad that is over with. I've had 4 major surgeries in the last 2 years plus 2 lumpectomies and didn't need any/much pains meds after any of them but I definitely did need it after this. The pain was really from chest muscles due to the expanders. Not sure how much fill my plastic surgeon put in but I'm far from flat chested. The top of breasts look good but there is wad of skin at the bottom but then again I had that already. One of my surgeries was gastric bypass surgery and a 125 lb weight loss was not kind to my breasts at all.

I got my path report Thursday from breast surgeon. The news couldn't have been any better. Looks like the 2nd lumpectomy did get all the DCIS afterall though one of the margins wasn't wide enough. No more IDC was found after initially lumpectomy. The path from mastectomy showed nothing of interest remaining in that breast. So, it looks like no radiation is indicated (per breast surgeon). My left breast (prophyllactic removal) showed fibrocystic changes and some intraductal hyperplasia. So I'm glad that is gone as well and won't be an issue down the road.

I am so incredibly relieved but very cautiously of course since I've seen early stage women end up with mets surface not too long after.

I finally will see an oncologist now that surgery is done! Appointment is scheduled for 3/19. The invasive component was very small so I'm not sure if I will be getting further treatment or not. The largest of the two areas of IDC was .3 cm (3 mm). I assume oncologist will order a FISH test since my her2/neu was 2.8+ via IHC. Not sure if any treatment would be indicated even if it is + or not. Won't know til I see him.

I want you to know that while I do not post often... you are in my thoughts and prayers. I share in your joys and sorrows. Keep fighting the fight!

Best wishes,

Skeetur (Kathy)