Newby here, surgery date for early Feb, what was supposed to be lymph node removal under arm and a couple of radiation treatments is now single mastectomy and lymph node under arm removal then either chemo or radiotherapy….totally stunned and reeling. Don’t want to be lopsided so asked if double mastectomy is an option (family history of BC) or do I wait 12 mths and have a reconstruction….so many questions.
Anyone else in same position xx
Hi Wow
Sorry to hear about your mastectomy. I totally understand how you wouldn't want to be lopsided. (I had a lumpectomy, so not in the same situation as you).
I guess the question to ask your team is if you have the BRCA gene - they should have tested you if you have a family history. This may mean that you could be offered the option of a double mastectomy, I would have thought. If you haven't got the gene and it's just unfortunate that other members of your family have had cancer, it might not be an option as I know surgeons don't want to remove breasts unless it is absolutely necessary.
My sister in law had one breast removed and she had an insert in her bra, she was a big lady and it looked surprisingly good, so from an outward point of view it can he disguised very well - but obviously you see it when you undress.
If you are able to keep your other breast, are they able to do immediate construction if you don't need radiotherapy? (I think radiotherapy can make a difference to the reconstruction).
Worth writing a list of all the questions and ask your team as I'm sure like many of us, all the questions go out of your mind when you're sat in with them!
Kindest wishes, Lesley
