Single or double mastectomy

Ask our Nurses your questions
1

I know the psychological and emotional implications will be major whatever I do but could you please advise on the clinical and future health cons of having a double mastectomy as opposed to a single one?

I will be having a left breast mastectomy in 2 weeks’ time with a lumpectomy on the right. The cancer on the right is contained on the right so there is no clinical need to remove that breast. I know I do not want reconstructive surgery now or in the future And do not want future surgeries if they can be avoided. I understand everyone’s decision is personal and some choose to live with one breast. I do not think that will be right for me feel symmetry would be my preference, but need clinical information to base my decision on. I have asked my breast team the same question but am waiting for them to get back to me. Many thanks

2

Hi mhilda

Thank you for you post asking about having the benefits of double (bilateral) mastectomy as opposed to a single mastectomy.

It’s understandable that you want to explore the option of having bilateral mastectomies having had breast cancer diagnosed in both breasts. A bilateral mastectomy can be an option is if breast cancer has been diagnosed in both breasts. Even if breast-conserving surgery is an option for one breast, some women may prefer to have a mastectomy to achieve symmetry, as you say. The long-term survival and rates of local recurrence are similar to having a mastectomy as for breast-conserving surgery followed by radiotherapy. However, having a mastectomy means you are less likely to need radiotherapy, although it involves a larger operation and longer recovery period after surgery.

You mention you do not want reconstructive surgery. You may find an organisation called Flat friends of help. They support women who have had or are looking to have mastectomy surgery without breast reconstruction. You may also find our page on coping with changes to your body after breast surgery of help.

Do speak to your breast care nurse or surgeon about your concerns as they are best placed to explore these options with you.

You may also find our Someone Like Me service of interest. This service can match you with a trained volunteer who’s also had a bilateral mastectomy. They can phone or email you to answer any questions you might have, offer support or simply listen. You may also find this thread on our forum of help.

Do call also our helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. The helpline team have time to listen, talk things through and signpost you to more support and information if necessary. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks. The number is 0808 800 6000, (Relay UK -prefix 18001).

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Best wishes

Teresa

Breast Care Nurse

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