I just had a lumpectomy & lymph nodes removed, what can I expect next?

Hi Sharia - First, if you JUST had your lumpectomy, you'll be waiting to hear whether they got clean margins, which means they don't have to go back in and "dig" some more. They will have sent the tumor they removed, and the lymph nodes, to the pathologist. He examines everything, then tells your oncologist all about your tumor, and whether or not cancer has spread to your lymph nodes. If it hasn't spread, you're almost certainly looking at radiation; if it has, you're probably looking at radiation and chemo both. And even if it hasn't spread, depending on various characteristics of your cancer cells, you MAY be looking at chemo. You should get the results of all this within a week, probably. You'll meet with your oncologist, he'll explain everything, propose a treatment plan,and off you'll go. Good luck - and stay connected. We're here to help. PJH

Hi Sharla - First know that cancer isn't what it used to be.  It is NOT a death sentence.  So even if your pathology report comes back positve for cancer, know that YOU CAN SURVIVE IT!

So now that surgery is over, I'm sure your waiting impatiently for your results.  When the dr calls with results, you might want to ask him for your own copy, cause I found that the report was confusing and you may have more questions.  What you'll want to know is the stage, the grade, if the margins are clear, whether you are er/pr+ and your her2/neu or her2 & cep17fish results, maybe even your dna ploidy or s-phase - and most importantly if it has spread to your nodes.

After your path report you will discuss your treatment plan - if they suggest radiation or chemo.  And while both of those treatments can have their bad moments, you'll survive which is the most important thing of all.  Be strong and fight.  it will be okay, we are always here for you.  Don't be shy!

Good luck!

Angi