This is my first time on here. I have recently been diagnosed with Ductal carcinoma with clear lymph nodes, oestrogen related. I was given several options to think about which has completely floored me. I would have preferred to be told what I need and accepted that. I am probably older than most of you on here and not too bothered about how I’ll look but don’t want major surgery if not necessary. I feel totally confused now, my nurse friends say I should have a mastectomy. Any help would be appreciated.
No one can tell you what to do but a mastectomy versus a lumpectomy has no difference in regards to long term survival. A mastectomy does cut down some risk in regards to local recurrence but they can just monitor that possibility through continuing mammograms, MRI’s, and then give you radiation to the area to cut down your risk even more. So if your doctor is supportive of a lumpectomy plus radiation and that’s what you’d prefer to do I would do what you want. You’re the one that has to live with it and a lumpectomy is certainly easier to recover from.
Hi Lyn due, I was advised on best treatment and followed their advice. I don’t have the knowledge to comment any further. Maybe your breast nurse is best to contact, they are great xxx
Everyone has to make their own decision on best treatment for themselves. I choose bilateral masectomies with immediate reconstruction because I did not want to worry every year for my screening results and preferred to avoid radiation if possible. I do not regret my decision and did not find recovery too bad . Wishing you all the best with your decision and future treatment . You will get through this !!