Lumpectomy + radiation or mastectomy for DCIS?

Hi StayingPositive2023 

I had a diagnosis of DCIS in my right breast following a lump that was a cyst in the left. I had several areas of calcification over the breast- I had two biopsies and they were recommending biopsies of all these areas of I wanted a lumpectomy and radiotherapy. However I was also offered a mastectomy to save on all these biopsies. The DCIS was larger than on the mammogram at 55mm but had remained non invasive. I had a risk reducing mastectomy on the other breast also for symmetry- I was at high risk of recurrence due to family history. However, I am happy with my decision. I do not need chemo/radio/hormonal therapy. You can click my name to see what I’ve been through to date.

I wish you a merry Christmas. Whatever decision you make will be the right one for you.

Helen

Hi Mama, thanks so much for your response. I've just had a look at your profile too - what an incredibly tough time to be diagnosed and treated!! I can only imagine. 

If you have another minute, can I just ask you how long it took to recover before you could be as fully involved with your kids as before? My youngest is 2 so already more independent of course, but I usually cycle everywhere so need to lift her into a bike seat for example, and of course she does need lifting and carrying for various things. 

Stay strong, and wishing you a merry Christmas too! Thanks again x

Hello Barbara, thanks so much for taking the time to send me such a detailed response! As it happens I am a Barbara too! and a cycling vegetarian with tiny breasts... we have quite a bit in common

I was supposed to have a mammogram biopsy but even getting into the mammogram required some extreme man-handling of my boobs and contortions on my part so they realised that having a biopsy like that would not be possible!!

It sounds like you had a brilliant recovery, how great! It's always really encouraging to read positive stories.

Thanks again for sharing, merry Christmas!!

 StayingPositive2023 I was not allowed to lift anything (including the baby) for the first 6 weeks post surgery and this will be the same for when my reconstruction will take place. It is really hard, especially with a little one crying to be lifted, but hopefully I’m doing this to make sure I’m around for my kids. That’s how I’m getting my head round it. I still don’t not have full range of arm movement as my scars are a little tight. I have been going to yoga which is helping but I’m not exercising too much as I do have another surgery sooner rather than later. 
Helen

Hi

I had 5cm of high grade DCIS and was told due to grade, size and position I needed a mastectomy. I tried to avoid it, but to no avail. Ended up having mastectomy with immediate reconstruction by DIEP. All will depend on the results from your biopsy and from that your consultant will give you a proposed treatment plan. If you really want a mastectomy, I think they will allow you to do so.XXXxxx

Hello Barbara,  I really believe that being fit and eating a healthy diet gives you an edge to healing quickly.  Cycling is a great exercise and good for the mind too.  Since we live in Florida we are able to cycle year round.  My hubby fell off his bike the Friday before my scheduled surgery on Thursday and  he needed a plate and screws put in on that Tuesday before my operation so I had to be ready to go as he was in a sling for a month.  I was thankful that I was able to get along and take care of him too.  We did ok.  
By the way the best bras for us small breasted women can be found on pepper.com. They fit so great as I can never get one that fits.  I got the ones made out of the modal fabric and they are so comfortable and the material so soft.  
Merry Christmas to you and family too.

Barbara

Thank you for that, I should find out tomorrow! Will let you know. 

How are you getting on with the reconstruction? Are you happy with it, and do you find it comfortable enough?

Thanks! 

Hi Barbara. Wow, you had a lot on your plate all at the same time!! And it sounds like you're a very strong lady  

Thanks for the bra recommendation! Will see if they ship to Switzerland. 

Xxx

Hi MamaH. I can only imagine how hard it must be with such a little one. They are impossible choices to make but like you say you want to just make sure you can be there for them as much as you can! 

Thank you so much for sharing despite everything else you have going on, I really appreciate it! 

Stay strong, and I hope you can enjoy the hols with your family xxx

I think we as women are used to being there and helping everyone even if we have issues too.  I was always thankful that my cancers were DCIS and stage 1 and that I didn’t need chemo.  I tried to be positive even though it was hard after getting knocked down and having to get up again but as my breast surgeon told me I made it through to the other side and want to stay on the all clear side.  You will decide what you want done and so much depends on the size of the DCIS in comparison to your breast size.  Take care and enjoy the Swiss chocolate as that will help you to feel better. 
Barbara