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Due to a strong family history of breast cancer and numermous lumpectomies, I chose to have an elective bilateral mastecomy with total reconstruction. Every year for the past 10 years I have worried from the time I had my mammogram to the next year. Each year it started off with a basic mammogram to a diagnostic, to a sonogram, to a biopsy to a lumpectomy. By this time 6 months has passed and more of my family members were being diagnosed with breast cancer. I felt like I was playing Russian Roultee and that I would soon run out of luck.
Through much soul searching and conversations with my Dr. and husband, I decided to have the surgery. I had the mastectomy with expanders inserted. Six months later I had the reconstruction and saline breast implants. 4 months later I had the nipple reconstructed and last week I had my tatoos (smile). This process took a little over a year, but it was all worth it.
I had stage 0 and a half..heading towards 1. I chose to have both breasts removed (bilateral mastectomy). I am not having reconstruction. The reason that I made this choice was because if I had a lumpectomy, I would have had to have radiation and also take tamoxifem. So even though the surgery may seem drastic and backwards, I am 100% certain that I made the correct choice. Im staying completely clear of harmful radiation and pills that have horrific side effects. Of course, no one writes about those subjects enough! Thanks! A survivor!
The cancer in my breast is scattered "gunshot" style.
A lumpetomy would leave me looking like a shark attack after the cancer is removed.
I DO care about what I look like, I care about my reconstruction.
It will be easier to build back two breasts that look alike and with more attractive results by having both breast removed.
I've also talked to several women whose cancer returned in the 2nd breast later.
So, my reason is both preventive and physical appearance.
I've done a lot of research, my surgeon only does diseases of the breast. (he won't be removing a gall bladder tomorrow), my plastic surgeon will come in right behind him and begin reconstruction/using expanders.
I've been attending a breast cancer support group which always boosts my spirits.
My surgery is 12/15/10
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Hey PJ,
As always, an incredibly thoughtful and illuminating piece, complete with facts to clear up so much of the confusion. Thanks for this.