Going Under the Knife

So, the other thing I needed to blog about is that the doctor called me on Wednesday to say that he thinks it's best to remove the lumps (here's the latest post on the subject), just to be on the safe side. I guess MRIs are too expensive (I've heard of one person whose co-pay ranged from 1500 to 1900 dollars, but I guess it may not be as high with other insurances) and it's faster and cheaper just to cut and remove... blah.

I've never had any surgery before, at least not the kind that requires an incision. I still remember when I had my tonsils out at 4, the anesthesia to sleep, waking up and having ice-cream. I also found it slightly interesting -- if unnerving -- to have anesthesia when I had the colonoscopy, but I generally dislike doctors and medical interventions. Of course it'll be only local anesthesia and outpatient surgery, but still... I'm not looking forward to it. Since one of the incisions is on my face, the surgeon will probably do it together with a plastic surgeon, which I certainly appreciate.

My mom has been very encouraging because she has had multiple surgeries and jokes that she's never afraid to go under the knife. ;-) She even had an elective biopsy of a small lump in her breast once, just for peace of mind. I still remember that, I must have been 10 or 12 -- I thought it was scary/strange that she was going to the cancer hospital (and by her own will -- in Brazil, depending on your health plan, you don't really need referrals, you just go to the specialist of your choice). Anyway... she says that it's better be safe than sorry and that a small biopsy is no big deal. The doctor has also reassured me that the removal of glands is completely harmless. OK, provided their growth is benign, I think.

I have an appointment with the surgeon next Thursday and I'll keep you posted.