Radiation VS Implants

karabesque

HI,

I have just been told that I need to have radiation. I have already had a bi-lateral mastectomy and 8 rounds of chemo. My plastic surgeon has told me that because of the elevation of where we live, he has a 50% success rate with implants. My reoccurance rate is 30% and radiation will decrease this rate by 2/3 or to 10%. Also, they want to take out the TEs I already have in and then, only if my skin is okay, in another year we can try the implants. I also have the option of fat grafting.

My problem is I am so done with all of the treatments and cancer itself and am leaning towards refusing the radiation and just getting the implants and live a clean, healthy, preventative lifestyle. My cancer was ER/PR positive and I know that the hormones can be controlled.

Has any one refused radiation and opted for a preventative lifestyle? If so, what are you doing and how is it going for you? I appreciate all feedback, on either side of the fence. I need guidance and some help deciding on this major choice.

Thanks in Advance!

JCJD

I made exactly that choice...my mental health was far more important than radiation. I see an Oncologist who specializes in alternative medicines and under his guidance, I take approximately 20 supplements a day but it's totally worth it! Even if my cancer were to come back, I would not regret making the choice I did. We must be our own best advocate. Hope this helps!