What to expect while waiting for breast cancer surgery and oncology appointment?

The waiting period between diagnosis and treatment can feel overwhelming, and those feelings of anxiety are completely natural during this uncertain time. Many patients find it helpful to prepare questions for their upcoming appointments and connect with others who understand this journey - this community can be a valuable source of support and practical insights from those who've walked similar paths.

The waiting is hard, I agree I was diagnosed in July 2025. 2 lumpectomies and facing a mastectomy on December 8th. My anxiety is through the roof. I was able to meet my oncologist at the start bc I go to his practice for iron transfusions. Love the staff and the facility is very comfortable.

Ladies I’m just on my second day home from lumpectomy and onco plastic breast reduction in both breasts. I am amazed at how good I feel!! Pain is managed and getting around is easy. So much easier than I had anticipated. I was well prepared and now have the ability to just rest and recover. I hope this encourages you!!! It’s not as bad as your mind goes to at all.

Angela, that is good news!!

Waiting is harder than my surgery. I had double lumpectomy 2-weeks ago and had minor pain. Biggest pain was under arms from lymph node testing. Hang tough, cry if you must, and know that everyone’s experiences are different. Unfortunately, I need chemo and radiation followed by hormone therapy. You’ll get through it just like I am. Good luck and keep fighting!

Shannon. I had lumpectomy 20 yrs ago for invasive ductal carcinoma. I had visited with the radiation oncologist prior to surgery and saw the medical oncologist after surgery as had 10+ lymph nodes positive which required chemo. Research proves whether having lumpectomy or mastectomy results outcome generally the same. The waiting is hard just stay positive and put in God's hands. I wish you easy healing. 🙏

The same feeling 🥲 but w/ gods help we all gona beat cancer 🙏🙏🙏

Thank you, all. I am inching closer. Lumpectomy next week.

Shannon, I know you're glad to have a surgery date. I hope you'll have great success with the lumpectomy. I've had 2 since July. Unfortunately they weren't able to get enough clear margins and now I face a mastectomy on Dec 8th. I'm scared, but know it's got to be done. I desperately need to make friends with others who have had similar experiences and find a support group. Please post next week and let us know how it went. Prayers for you!!

Joan, I had my lumpectomy on Monday. I feel pretty good, but i am still waiting on pathology results. I am actually surprised! I have moments when I move a certain way, but overall, not bad. I hope for the best for you. Yes, it has to be done but you are stronger than you know!!! Braver than you feel!!! And resilient overall. You've got this, lady! I am amazed at the strength of women, daily, by posts such as these but also friends. Please know I will keep you in my prayers, as well. 🎀🎀

Shannon, I'm so glad lumpectomy went well. I'm hoping your path report will show a good result. I'm also amazed by the resilience of the women who are going through this. I met with the plastic surgeon for 2nd time yesterday. He is so well respected and I'm thrilled he agreed to do my reconstruction. I'll spend at least 1 night in the hospital, possibly 2. That eases my jitters bc I know they'll be watching over me. Not looking forward to chemo and radiation but I'll do them anyway. We had plans to move to Florida early next year but I guess that's on hold for awhile now.