Advice about decision

Snoop79- In terms of the margins- I think the difference in approach is based on newer recommendations. My second surgery still resulted in two opposite margins <1mm-that's close but technically clean. According to my RO and surgeon if edges  are clean-margins are negative, period. I was 43 when diagnosed-very strong family history. I really wanted to just do bilateral mastectomy but was strongly encourage to do breast conservation. I will say I have had complications due to large amount of breast tissue taken. Ultimately, my Dr's say it can take 1-2 years for full recovery. I am glad I have been patient as I have seen great improvement even in last 3-4 months. I think the recovery time and multiple procedures for mastectomy overwhelmed me. My little one was three then so I thought quicker recovery and close monitoring best way. I could certainly see how surgical plan and recovery with no more worries would appeal to you. Follow your heart and gather all the facts. Even though I didn't chose that option my surgeon  told me insurance will cover preventative mastectomy and reconstruction at any point due to history. If you anticipate having children, might not be bad idea to also speak with OB or fertility specialist. Gathering all the information will help you make the best decision.Wishing you well! 

I just had a BMX on December 9.  I was diagnosed with DCIS in the right breast, stage 1.  I am 54 years old, no family history.  Not one of the doctors I saw was negative about any of the options--I was told by everyone that this is a very peronal choice and what is right for me is the right decision.  Insurance should pay no matter what your decision, as well as for reconstruction if you choose to go that route. If one of my doctors had said they wouldn't do one of the options I would not have had him/her do my surgery!  I chose BMX because, quite honestly, I wanted the absolute lowest chance of recurrence there was, I did not want to go through radiation, I did not want to take Tomoxifen and I did not want to take a chance on needing repeated surgeries. (of course there is no gurantee I won't need additional!)  And, I had said my whole life that if I ever found out I had breast cancer that they chould take them!  I decided to be true to what I had always said and I have no regrets.  I'm only 5 days out from my surgery so I may have some at some point but I doubt it.  I read everything I could find, talked to family and friends, weighed the options and took what many may think was over treatment.  But, there is no over treatment--be true to yourself.  Only you know what will be best for you.  Good luck to you and I hope you reach a decision that feels right for you!

We understand that it is confusing, often overwhelming and there is so much information to read and consider but there is no easy way as YOU have to make the decision as to what is done to YOUR BODY. Only you can decide what is best for you.

You may consider not reconstructing and going flat, so read Living Without Reconstruction After a Mastectomy

You could read the Reconstruction stories and options on BCO and ask questions.

There are many issues to consider and many variables in all treatments depending upon location, surgeon, your body's responses and your Dx.

Sorry we can't help more. You are best talking with the other members.

All the best

The Mods

Just want to reinforce one thing- although my surgeon encouraged me to pursue breast conservation therapy he was very clear that the final decision was mine and if I was going to go with mastectomy he would refer me to plastic surgeon he works with. I would encourage you to wait for a surgeon that provides you with all the options but respects your decision making. Not sure if you are in large or small area but there are a lot of regional breast cancer centers across the country. These facilities usually have tumor board meetings once a week where group looks over results and makes recommendations. I saw a surgeon outside of this group due to my insurance- I work for different hospital system- but I was able to have my case reviewed (within a week) based on the fact that I would be seeing someone from the radiation and medical oncology groups represented there. I also waited for BRCA testing so I had time. It also was my first meeting with RO and MO at same place and day which was nice. Might want to ask your OB if he could refer your case. I agree with others big decision and very personal, be true to yourself and you can't go wrong.  Best of luck!