Calcifications plus a small mass

[JAG2665]

I have breast implants and very little natural breast tissue.  In the summer of 2007, a routine mammogram showed a cluster of calcifications on the right breast.  I went through 2 failed stereotactic needle biopsies (not enough tissue to preform) before I had a surgical biopsy.  It was found to be benign.  Now, I was told on Oct. 15,2008 that I have 3 clusters of calcifications on my left side and also a small non-palpable mass which was found on an ultrasound. Since I am not a candidate for a needle biopsy, my only 2 choices were to have a mammogram and ultrasound in 6 months, or to go see a surgeon.  I am reluctant to see a surgeon.  I really don't know what to do.  Is it safe to wait 6 months?

[japdip]

I'm not sure why you would be reluctant to see a Surgeon as recommended but I personally wouldn't wait. Although in the world of breast cancer, 6 months isn't very long, I don't think I would want to wonder about it that long. I'm not trying to alarm you but just because you had one negative biopsy that doesn't mean that all future groups of calcifications will produce the same result. If you can comfortably wait the 6 months I don't think it would be dangerous to do so; it all depends on your comfort level but after 6 months I would think everything that is there now will still be present and a biopsy will again be recommended.   Regards ....

[nannotnancy]

Can you get an MRI?  I have no personal experience with implants (yet), but it seems it wouldn't hurt to see the surgeon just to get his take on it.  I've had calcifications for at least 30 years, and it's taken this long for even a little DCIS to develop, so in my case they weren't dangerous.  I believe calc's  make it more difficult to READ the mammograms, which can be a problem.

Good luck!