I first discovered the lump in my breast when I did my usual monthly self-breast exam. Initially, I found my heart beating fast and then I calmed down as I began to focus on being proactive by taking the next steps.

I immediately scheduled an appointment to see my gynecologist. She, too, felt the lump and then referred me to a highly respected surgeon in my area. I met with my doctor, who shared with me the various options for surgically removing the lump or using the Mammotome® Biopsy System. She described the procedure in detail and indicated that it was less invasive than surgical removal and would only require outpatient surgery. Because the size of the lump in my breast was somewhat borderline, the procedure may not remove all of the tissue in question. However, she felt strongly that the lump was benign, but we needed to be sure. And, if I was consistent with scheduling my mammograms, my prognosis was very good.

I shared with my doctor that I had a lump removed from my breast when I was a senior in high school and it left an unsightly scar. I went home and discussed the doctor's visit with my husband, who supported me no matter which path I chose. I felt it necessary to do further research by using the Internet to learn more about this procedure and the options that I was to consider.

I took about five days to make a decision and then rescheduled an appointment to see the surgeon that following week. I told her that my decision was to undergo the breast biopsy procedure using the Mammotome® System, and she told me more about what to expect. Three weeks later, I went to outpatient surgery for the procedure. The nurses were so wonderful and really put my fears at rest. I experienced very little pain during the surgery and it was amazing to be able to see it being performed on the sonogram screen. It was like an "out of body experience." After using a local anesthetic, the doctor began the procedure and described every step she was taking. The procedure lasted abut 45 minutes and I was out of the hospital within a total of one hour and 30 minutes, including check-in time at the Admissions Desk.

A small bandage was placed on the incision and I wore a bra with strong support to help alleviate any discomfort. My husband treated me to a nice lunch, a new dress, and I went home and relaxed for the rest of the day. I could have returned to work that day, but I decided to treat myself. After the procedure, I experienced very little pain, and within a month the incision was totally healed, PLUS the lump was benign, for which I am so thankful.

I would certainly talk about this procedure with other women who meet the necessary requirement because it is less invasive than regular surgery, only requires out patient surgery, does not require a general anesthetic, and the recovery period is relatively short. My advice to women is that you be diligent about self-breast examination every month, and when you detect a lump, do not delay in going to the doctor, for it could save your life. Also, please have your mammograms done annually or as your doctor advises. By all means, do your research and examine your options carefully.