40-50 hot flashes/day

I am 65, just had full laproscopic hysterectomy.  Had to go off 1/2 combipatch that I'd used for years that
kept hot flashes at tolerable amount and permitted sleep.  Some cancer cells found in lining of uterus, but
no where else.  I'm lucky and recovering from the surgery just great, but the hot flashes always return immediately
when I am off the estrogen. (menopause at 55)
Am timid about taking estrogen again due to diagnosis and fear of breast cancer, but have zero quality of
life without them.  Am doing acupuncture, and taking Remifemin, with no improvement (just two weeks)
Surgeon and gyno telling me that with such severe hot flashes, the risk would be low for future cancer and
that I may take them for relief.  Live in NYC, they don't recommend bio identical.  Can you please offer
any light on the subject.  I will have to do something soon.  Thank you.