daughter seeking advise

Hi Shaz -- the benefit of the lumpectomy is to preserve as much breast tissue as possible.  The decision to get a mastectomy can be determined by the type of breast cancer (i.e., lobular has a greater chance of occuring in the other breast), the size of the lump. being able to get clear margins (that's being able to remove the tumor and having cancer-free tissue around it) chance of it recurring in the other breast.

It's hard to predict what will happen in the future -- your Mom could get a lumpectomy and be cancer-free for the rest of her life.  Or, maybe she will continue to have a risk.  I think she should go with what her doctor recommends.  If she goes for the mastectomy she can get a reconstruction at the same time, or get it later, or not at all.  Regardless, she should go for what will give her the best health outcome. 

Shaz,

I agree with Konakat, your Mom has to decide what is the best course of action for herself, based upon her doctor's recommendation.  She needs to research all avenues and make her own decision.  My Mom had breast cancer and ovarian cancer, both late in lift onset (70 and 75).  I was diagnosed May 20th with DCIS right breast and IDC left breast.  Even though genetic testing was negative for me, my decision was to do one surgery and increase my chances of never having to do it again.  I had a bilateral with immediate DIEP reconstruction and ooph on July 17th.  Going back to work today and feeling good.  Still some swelling and tightness, but nothing I can't live with.  I wish you and your Mom the best of health, my prayers will be with you both as you make this journey together.

Cathy