BREAST CANCER EXPERT FORUM
How soon after a lumpectomy should my mother have another mammogram or ultrasound?

How soon after a lumpectomy should my mother have another mammogram or ultrasound?

My mother is 79 and had a lumpectomy on March 1st of this year. From what I understand, the cancer was at Stage 1 with a 1.2 cm lump that was removed. Due to my mother's age, we decided not to do radiation, but instead, closely monitor through follow-up mammograms. Her first follow-up was to be in mid June, however, she was ill so we had to reschedule the appointment. Unfortunately, last week she fell and broke her shoulder in 3 places and fractured her pelvis. As a result, now she cannot even get out of bed and is currently in a rehab facility. When I talked to her breast cancer doctor's office, I was told that the doctor was only planning to check the incision site at the follow-up appointment, not planning to do a mammogram yet anyway. I realize that my mother probably could not withstand having a mammogam right now.....but I am very nervous about letting so much time pass before having another mammogram, especially since we didn't do radiation. I am wondering how quickly could the cancer come back, and is waiting 4-5 months after the lumpectomy before a recheck, waiting too long?
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Dear SNS, The usual guidelines for follow- up after treatment is complete for breast cancer is for history and physical examination every 4-6 months for 5 years, then yearly.  The first mammogram follow-up after lumpectomy is 6 months after  local treatment  (surgery with or without radiation therapy)  is completed.  These are guidelines and would be individualized to the patient based on the individual patient situation, assessment of symptoms and physical examination.  

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