Scar tissue

I am 2-1/2 years out from surgery from a lumpectomy and have had negative mammos up untill last spring when the mammo showed some tissue change. With further tests they determined that it was scar tissue. I went through the same thing in December. The mammo showed more change, very little but change nonetheless. With more mammos and compresion views and ultrasound they came to the came conclusion that it was scar tissue. They just got a new breast MRI machine in and offered it to me at no charge. Those results came back with high definition at the incision. The doctor has said it doesn't look consistent with cancer but that maybe I should repeat the mammo in one month along with another breast MRI.

Does the breast tissue continue to change? I am 36. Is this possible scar tissue? My breast has increased firmness but with massage seems to be less firm. My breast seems to be more firm right before I start my cycle each month. Is this normal?

I am really considering having a masectomy so I don't have to worry about my tests every 3-6 months. Does this make sense to be considering such a invasive surgery. I would have implants if I do the surgery.

Any advice would be appreciated.

[CCF-RN,MSN-rf]

Dear alleykatt:  Scar tissue can form and change over time.  Massage can also help to prevent or control development of scar tissue.  Firmness (or fullness) of the breast can be a common happening along with one's menstrual cycle.  Interpretation of mammograms and MRI's are best done by radiologists and it is impossible to guess at whether these findings could be scar tissue or something more concerning.  If this is very worrisome to you, you have several options.  1) Get another opinion from a breast specialist, 2) Ask to have the density biopsied - if for no other reason than peace of mind, 3) have mastectomy, or 4) have the next mammogram/MRI and take it from there.  You may need to have a very frank discussion with your doctor about your concerns.