trying to process a mastectomy

happy29

Hi,

My doctor can not get clean margins from my DCIS and thinks I should strongly consider having a mastectomy.  So I have three plastic surgeon consults. Ideally I think I would consider a Flap procedure- preferable from my outer thighs. I have been feely so strong but today feel SO sad. I am scared that it may have spread but the doctor has not said that. The thought of all of this is surreal and I am sad that some friends just have "normal" conversations with me .-at times never even asking about my cancer. Then I think I am being too self centered. Overall I have great support.

 Part of me feels embarrased but I know that is crazy. I am attached to my breasts. I always liked them.

I guess this is part of the process and it all is hitting me. ...

Garciamx

Hello, I understand what you are going through...we hate to think that our breast define us but somehow they do. The decision to have a mastectomy was not an easy one..but I chose to do it cause I wanted peace of mind..I know I do not have a 100% guarantee this cancer won't come back but 90% was good enough for me..I had my mastectomy on 07/14/09..I have had some complications but do not regret my decision....As to your friends just having normal conversations..I think that some people don't know how to react and out of nervousness just try and avoid the issue. It is ok sometimes if this happens..I only do want to share my deep/dark feelings with my "closest" friends anyways...Everything you are feeling is NORMAL...it took me a while to realize that..but it is true...you know what really helped me with this?? It was finding a support group..I started right before my first chemo and boy am I glad I did...and my rambling on this board also helps me..good luck..and keep us posted...Maria

Kay-kay

Happy29,I wish my doctors would have suggested a mastectomy when I was initially diagnosed, because I ended up needing an emergency bilateral mastectomy in August 2007. In the beginning, I was extremely young (in my 20's) and did not ask many questions. 

I admit my shirts do not fit well, and no "V" necks or low-cuts for me. I decided against reconstruction. I did not want to undergo another surgery, as I was told that I would need new implants every ten years. 

Good Luck on your decision.