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Having surgery in October 2025? Let's support one another here!

moderators
moderators Posts: 9,647

Are you scheduled to have a lumpectomy or mastectomy in the month of October? Join us here where we support each other as we prepare for our surgeries, ask questions about what to expect, share reservations and fears, and support one another through preparation and recovery. And, we encourage others who've "been there" to answer questions about what to expect with surgery and recovery.

Share your surgery date so we can cheer you on, the type of surgery you'll be having, and let us know how you do after it's done so others know what to expect first-hand.

While you get ready, check out the Shopping/Packing/To-Do List for Surgery and Recovery. For more information, check out the Surgery section on our site for info about what types of surgery, questions to ask, choosing between lumpectomy and mastectomy, and what to expect with surgery and recovery.

If you need more support, consider joining our Virtual Support Groups for those going through treatment — and beyond!

We're all here for you and we're in your pocket for surgery day and beyond!

—The Mods

Comments

  • I have a multisite partial mastectomy scheduled for Monday oct 13. Stage 1 invasive ductal carcinoma (7mm) and dcis. Scouts were inserted this morning. Getting nervous.

  • marlegal
    marlegal Posts: 1,494

    cbs, I hope your surgery went as well as possible. I’m scheduled for a bilateral mastectomy this Thursday, the 16th. Very nervous here. This was a recurrence. I had a lumpectomy in 2005 (followed by chemo, radiation and hormone blockers for five years)

    Sending love to all who enter.

  • marlegal, thanks for the well wishes. My surgery went well and I was able to get home to watch the tail end of the Mariners game. Anticipation was much worse than the actual surgery. My medical team was amazing. My last memory before they put me under was my surgeon squeezing my hand and whispering in my ear, “don’t worry we will take good care of you.” I feel good this morning and plan to take a short walk.


    good luck with your surgery. I’m so sorry you are still dealing with this 10 years later. I feel confident your team will take good care of you.

  • I was supposed to have surgery on the 28th. I had a panic attack and shut my phone off for several days. I missed the scheduling for pre-op and my time for the 28th was given to another patient. I am not an expert with all the terminology but this is what I could find 7 cm, ER+/HER2-, high Ki-67, MRI clear. I am currently "cancer free" and do not really want surgery. I finished chemo about 2 months ago. I've read so many forums on here and the internet from going flat to getting implants to just getting a lumpectomy. I just want to keep my "girls" and try something else. I feel like how will we ever know if other options work if the go-to is chopping them off before trying something else? I am lost, confused, and scared, I don't want to mutilate my body 😭I am making a last ditch effort and contacted another oncologist for a second opinion.

  • moderators
    moderators Posts: 9,647

    To @cbswastate :
    I’m so glad to hear your surgery went smoothly and that you’re feeling well enough for a walk — that’s a great sign. It’s completely normal for the anticipation to feel worse than the procedure itself. Wishing you a smooth and gentle recovery ahead. 💗

    To @marlegal :
    Sending you strength and support as you head into surgery. It’s understandable to feel nervous, especially after everything you’ve already been through. Take things one step at a time — we’re here for you and thinking of you. 💕

    To @risinggoddess :
    It’s completely understandable to feel scared, overwhelmed, and uncertain — so many people in this community have felt the same way. Getting a second opinion is a smart move and can help you feel more confident about your choices. Whatever you decide, you deserve a treatment plan that feels right for you, and we’re here to support you through it. 💗

  • marlegal
    marlegal Posts: 1,494

    cbs, glad you’re doing well and happy to say I am also. Really surprised how well I feel. Grateful girl.

    rising, you need to take a breath and see what feels right to you. I hope you can get a second opinion sooner than later. Please keep us posted.

    Mods, thanks for the good wishes.

  • Had mastectomy on Tuesday. Surgery went well and I feel good. Tomorrow will be first day i will remove bandages to bathe and im nervous as to what my reaction will be when I see myself for the first time.

  • moderators
    moderators Posts: 9,647

    Welcome, @sc90gemini! We certainly understand your nervousness, that's a big step in the recovery process. You'll likely feel a range of emotions, and all of them are normal and valid. Be gentle and patient with yourself as you adjust, the recovery and healing process takes time!

    We're all here for you!

    The Mods

  • moderators
    moderators Posts: 9,647

    @sc90gemini How's the recovery going?

  • crossh
    crossh Posts: 64

    a little late here, had my complete axillary lymph node dissection along with a Lymphovenous Bypass on October 31st. Now a full week out and feeling great. Surgery went well and both surgeons completed everything they had hoped to do. Waiting for pathology, but already know they’re all cancer. Discovered on a PET FES scan. Chemo next, then radiation. Does anyone know how long a wait before starting chemo?