What to expect from stage 1 lung cancer surgery and recovery?

Stage I diagnosis often brings hope since early-stage treatment can be very effective. Many community members have shared that recovery experiences vary, but having a good support system and preparing for the healing process ahead of time can make a meaningful difference. Hopefully others who have walked this path will share their insights and practical tips to help you feel more prepared for what's ahead.

I totally agree about having that support system ready and preparing ahead of time - you might also want to ask your surgical team about what breathing exercises or physical therapy they recommend to help with your recovery.

Thank you so much. I understand the surgery recovery is gruesome and tbh my thoughts are to do radiation instead. I meet later this week with a radiation oncologist for a consult but am meeting next week with a lung oncologist (who seems a lot more knowledgeable than anyone I’ve spoken to so far) at a research cancer center. Then I guess I’ll decide. I made it through 2 knee replacements , so ….

I'm in the same situation. Luckily, a woman in our community had the same diagnosis/surgery in late November. We went out to dinner after Christmas and was was nearly back to normal.

I had the upper lobe of left lung removed last weeks I started exercising by walking and riding stationary bike as much as possible and doing breathing exercises. Was back on my feet after 6 weeks. I am a physical therapist and knew I needed to push myself. I am also an asmatic

Thank you all so much for your comments. It seems like surgery is the option chosen my many, even with asthma. I talke with a surgeon on Monday, so we’ll see what she says. I am NOT in great shape physically.

Well, I met with a radiology oncologist and a thoracic surgeon at the hospital 5 minutes from my house. And I was impressed with both of them. But…then I met with a thoracic surgeon and an oncologist at specialized cancer center affiliated with a medical school. They were far more aware of treatments coming in the future and the surgeon said I would probably lose my lower lobe because it’s in a very difficult place. However, it has a dna profile that is amenable to a new form of immunotherapy. I would have the surgery in a second if I were 50 or 60 or 70. But I’m 80 and have had asthma for 10 years. I’m apprehensive but in the end think I’m going for radiation. Thoughts? Comments appreciated.

Making these decisions is difficult. My first appointment was with a surgeon and I found out my cancer is inoperable. The next appointments were with radiation oncology and I am gping to have external radiation. Then I met with medical oncology. They told me the only hope for a cure would be both radiation and chemotherapy together, as my cancer is stage 3. I start in a few weeks. I am really frightened. I have bought some N95 masks and disposable gloves to protect me when I go out after chemotherapy starts. The drugs I am getting will destroy my blood cells as well as the cancer. I could use any advise on how to prepare. I already picked up medications for nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.