Recent double mastectomy

tarams602
tarams602 Member Posts: 21 Member
in Breast Cancer #1

hello, 

I was recently diagnosed with breast cancer back in August. I’ve went through all the tests biopsies MRIs ultrasounds. I wound up having a 2.2 nodule in my left breast that was malignant. We spoke but being I have a history of cancer in my I opted immediately to have a double mastectomy. Fast-forward to November 5 was the day of my operation. I had a double mastectomy as well as eight of my lymph nodes tested. After surgery, I was in recovery and the breast surgeon told me I was cancer free. I am still recuperating at home. I still do have one drain in, unfortunately. But I know this is all temporary. I went to see an oncologist last week due to my onco score being a 26 which is pretty much right on the cusp. I was recommended to have chemo and the Lupron or just the Lupron shot. I understand this is all for preventative purposes, but my way of thinking is why should I take any type of treatment if I am cancer free. I always said to myself if I ever was diagnosed with cancer, I would not take any treatment because for me I am more afraid of treatment than cancer itself. I was wondering if anybody had any experience or any advice they could give to me regarding the shot because I’m having second thoughts about even doing that right now . I appreciate any feedback. Anyone can give me. Thank you very much.

  • I am also 51 years old and pre-menopause so the doctor did tell me if I decided to take the shot it would put me right into menopause. I understand I think that they said cancer feeds off of estrogen, but I’m just not sure what to do. Thank you again for all your comments coming. I appreciate it.

Comments

  • tarams602
    tarams602 Member Posts: 21 Member
    #2

    I’d also like thoughts on tamoxifen. Thank you so much in advance!

  • melindagail
    melindagail Member Posts: 1 Member
    #3

    I am scheduled to have double mastectomy in January and i was told some kind of pill to stop the estrogen. Is this what throws people into menopause? I am terrified, i have invasive ductal carcinoma double positive for er and pr and her2 neg.

  • tarams602
    tarams602 Member Posts: 21 Member
    #4

    Hi Melinda. I’ve only just had one Lupron shot which is an estrogen blocker and yes it’ll put me into menopause. It’s only been a week since I’ve gotten it. After that I’m supposed to take tamoxifen for 5 years, but I want to be sure about side effects first before I make any final decisions. It’s only normal to be nervous. I do understand. You will be ok. I’m er and pr positive as well. Reach out if you ever want to talk. This is all new to me as well. I had my dm on 11/5 and still healing. Nothing in lymph nodes thank goodness. So right now I am cancer free!! 🙏.

  • LIYAH
    LIYAH Member Posts: 13 Member
    #5

  • gindak46
    gindak46 Member Posts: 1 Member
    #6

    I am have a double mastectomy January 10, not sure if radiation is needed. What is recovery like?

  • dssdesi
    dssdesi Member Posts: 18 Member
    #7

    Hello, You are all so strong! I am also er,pr + and her neg. My treatment seems different as it maybe I am 64. I have highly aggresive cancer according to the mamaprint report. Doctors has me doing chemo first to reduce tumor and lymph size in hopes of doing just lumpendoctomay on the one breast. breast conservation and minimal lymph removel. My question is by choice or choosing that you are doing a full DM. As I am concern about my choice on less. Surgery for me they say will be followed by radition and meds for 5 years. thank you for any thoughts. Debra

  • Deboneal51
    Deboneal51 Member Posts: 4 Member
    #8
    https://csn.cancer.org/discussion/328737/recent-double-mastectomy

    Í have beeñ trying to get help for bills,éveryday living.I have Stage IV metestatíc breast cancer that went to lymph nodes añd lung.I have been thinking about what I am going to do.My bones are hurting so I think cançer mày be spreading,

  • Deboneal51
    Deboneal51 Member Posts: 4 Member
    #9

  • Deboneal51
    Deboneal51 Member Posts: 4 Member
    #10
    https://csn.cancer.org/discussion/328737/recent-double-mastectomy

  • LIYAH
    LIYAH Member Posts: 13 Member
    #11

    Re: Breast Cancer Diagnosis & Treatment Options

    Good Afternoon Tarams602,

    I understand that you're facing a challenging situation and that the decision about adjuvant therapy can feel overwhelming. It's completely understandable to have concerns and second thoughts, especially after undergoing a major surgery like a double mastectomy.

    You're right to be cautious and to carefully weigh the potential benefits and risks of any treatment. Here's some information that might be helpful:

    • Understanding the Oncotype Score: Your Oncotype score of 26 indicates a moderate risk of recurrence. This score helps your doctor assess the likelihood of the cancer returning and guide treatment decisions.
    • Lupron (leuprolide):
      • How it works: Lupron is a medication that blocks the production of estrogen in your body. Since some breast cancers are fueled by estrogen, blocking its production can help reduce the risk of recurrence.
      • Side Effects: Common side effects of Lupron can include hot flashes, vaginal dryness, mood swings, and decreased bone density.
      • Menopause: As you mentioned, Lupron will induce menopause. This can have significant physical and emotional effects.
    • Tamoxifen:
      • How it works: Tamoxifen is another hormone therapy that blocks estrogen receptors in breast cells.
      • Side Effects: Potential side effects of tamoxifen include hot flashes, vaginal bleeding, and an increased risk of blood clots.
      • Significant weight gain. (Tamoxifen caused me to gain almost 200lbs)
    • Discuss your concerns: Clearly express your fears and anxieties regarding treatment.
    • Ask specific questions: Inquire about the potential benefits and risks of each treatment option in detail.
    • Explore all available options: Discuss alternative treatment options, if any, and their potential benefits and risks.
    • Consider a second opinion: If you feel uncertain, consider seeking a second opinion from another qualified oncologist. I got a second opinion and I did the research on whatever medication and chemotherapy my oncologist would have me on.

    Remember, this is a personal decision. You have the right to make an informed choice about your treatment plan based on your values, preferences, and risk tolerance.

    I encourage you to take your time, gather all the necessary information, and make a decision that feels right for you.

    I hope this information is helpful.

  • Deboneal51
    Deboneal51 Member Posts: 4 Member
    #12
    https://csn.cancer.org/discussion/328737/recent-double-mastectomy

    I had à double mastectomy íñ Feb 2014.I thén did reconstruction surgery and à prevention treatment for anothér yeár.Was told I díd nót have tó gét mamagrams or treatment.I then found large lumps in my lymph nodes.I had Cancer in lymph nodés very large hard lumps.Went to gét testing I had breast cancer again.I had metastatic stàge ÍV breast cançer that spread to lungs and lymph nodes añd possible bone.There is no çure but you can do tréatmènt for the rest of your life.I am singlé hußbàñd died of cancer 4 yeàrs ago.Í have been trying to get some financial hélp for the past month but not much .

  • tarams602
    tarams602 Member Posts: 21 Member
    #13
    https://csn.cancer.org/discussion/comment/1719735#Comment_1719735

    recovery is ok. In my opinion, the drains are the worst part. As long as you rest and take time for yourself to heal, you will be OK. Some things are challenging at first, but that is to be expected under the circumstances. Everything will get better as time goes on. Just know that this is the best decision that you made by yourself for yourself. You will be OK. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. If you’d like to write back to me, I am here.

  • tarams602
    tarams602 Member Posts: 21 Member
    #14

    Thank you so much for all that useful and helpful information This is a very challenging time and you hope you make the right decision for yourself, but it has to be your decision. I do totally understand that. As I stated, I did do one Lupron shot. I will go through with the three more. I’m going to see my oncologist on Monday to talk about.Anastrozole. Not tamoxifen. Side effects how long she would recommend I go on it for and any other questions I may have. I appreciate all your information as well. Thank you very much.

  • tarams602
    tarams602 Member Posts: 21 Member
    #15
    https://csn.cancer.org/discussion/comment/1719771#Comment_1719771

    I’m very sorry to hear this. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. Can I ask you. What stage were you. What treatment did you get?

  • MM1455
    MM1455 Member Posts: 1 *
    #16
    https://csn.cancer.org/discussion/comment/1719602#Comment_1719602

    Hello, I am getting Lupron, it is the shot that will get you to post-menopause for the meds to be more effective. Thus far, my most uncomfortable is the hot flushes. Acupuncture and craniosacrial massages are doing wonders not only for hot flushes, but also for nausea and lack of appetite.

  • dssdesi
    dssdesi Member Posts: 18 Member
    #17
    https://csn.cancer.org/discussion/comment/1719965#Comment_1719965

    Dear kytoh, oh wow , so hard is this journey. i am praying for YOU!

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