Having tumor removed tomorrow

[Dee52]

I am finally having my tumor taken out Monday Sept 8...First they are going to put the needle in my breast and some blue dye then have a couple of mammagrams to make sure needle is in the right place.  After this the dr is going to do the surgery and take the tumor out and have reports done on it to see if it is cancer. I had cancer in 1993 in the same breast. What are my options if it is cancer?
Thank you my dear friends,
Dee

[Dee52]

I can't have hormone therapy because my first cancer was caused by hormones.  I go on the 16th to get my results.  I just like to see all my options before going to the Dr,  that way I at least know some options before going to him.
Have a wonderful day,
Dee

[Dennis MD]

Hi again.
Since you already had radiation treatment previously, that may not be an option anymore for you.  There is a dose limit of radiation therapy.  Beyond which excessive toxicity can be experienced.  
If your biopsy turns out to be malignant, your options will be surgery and adjuvant systemic treatment (chemotherapy and hormonal therapy).  As I’ve said, you may also need to undergo further tests to determine the extent of the recurrence.
I’m not pretty sure if the insurance will cover prophylactic mastectomy.  You can consult your insurance office regarding that.
It is fine to put ice pack on the surgical site.  
Take care.      

[Dee52]

Thank you for you information...I had radiation in the left breast where this tumor was taken out.  My Dr said since I had radiation in this breast that wasn't an option for me.  If and I mean a BIG IF this is cancer will I have to have chemo with the removal of the breast. Also, if they have to take one breast off do you know if insurance will pay for the other breast to be taken off.  After this I don't want to take anymore chances.  I have very good insurance.  Is it OK to put ice packs on the incision from the surgery I just had"
Thank you in advance,
Dee52

[madgeOwens]

Good luck Dee I will say a prayer for you. God Bless.
Madge

[Dennis MD]

Hi Dee,
If your biopsy turns out to be benign, excision may suffice.  
If your biopsy turns out to be malignant, your options include surgery (mastectomy, if this was not done previously), chemotherapy, and/or radiotherapy.  You may also need to undergo additional tests to determine the extent of disease (whether the cancer is confined to the breast or involves other organ/s as well).
Good luck on your biopsy.  Hopefully the result turns out to be benign.