how fast should the surgery be performed after cancer diagnosis?

[sanam]

Hello, I am 32 years old with breast cancer family history.  I also went for a genetic testing - which found the mutation (don't know exactly which one yet).
I've found a lump in my breast in January and it took me a month to go through mammograms and ultrasound then biopsy.  The pathology report states: invasive ductal carcinoma grade 3.
ER negative, the size of the core is about 6 mm, but my surgeon estimates it to be bw 1 and 3 sm.  I cannot wait to get rid of it and I am scared that it's spreading while I am waiting for the surgery.  My surgery is scheduled for march 3 but if I decide to go for bilateral then they will need to change the date.
How long should/can I wait for it to be removed?
Has anyone had any experience with breast reconstruction, how long is the recovery?

[CCF-RN,MSN-JS]

Dear sanam, There is no exact answer for how long you should wait before having the surgery.  However, you have time to make a decision, get scheduled and proceed with the surgery, you wouldn't want to take months to take care of this but a week here or there should not be a problem.  The recovery after reconstructive surgery depends on the type of reconstruction, and also the individual.  In general recovery time is about 4 to 6 weeks.

[filmgrrrl]

Regarding reconstruction recovery-I had bilateral with immediate single-stage reconstruction using adjustable saline implants in September.  I was laid up for a couple weeks (slept in a recliner), didn't drive for three weeks, and went back to work at six weeks.  If one chooses flap reconstruction I believe the recovery is somewhat longer.  Check out bcsupport.org and breastcancer.org.  Both sites have good message boards where women can give you feedback on their experiences.  Take care!