Anyone chose mastectomy over lumpectomy????

Hi,

I was diagnosed with Invasive Ductal Carcinoma stage II in August 2022. After my diagnosis I coversed with a friend who had just undergone breast cancer treatment and what I took away from that conversation was I wanted to do a bilateral mastecomy. She had done a lumpectomy first and like others on this post had to go back and have the bilateral anyway. I was firm in my decision through chemo which I did as a first treament measure to shrink the masses in my breast and lymphnode. Then it was time to meet with the surgeon. Ooph, that's when things got real for me. I'm not going to lie, I was freaking out on the inside. I started to question if I was being too aggresive with my choice. It also didn't help that my oncologist and the surgeon had differing opinions on what should happen next. My oncologist preferred I get the lumpectomy first; she was afraid of any complications from the surgery delaying my last course of treatment (radiation & more chemo if needed). The surgeon was all for the bilateral stating it would be more challenging with regards to the blood vessels and reconstruction after radiation. I'm a spiritual person so I just prayed on what I should do and ultimately decided to follow my first mind and proceed with the bilateral. My surgery is scheduled on 1/17/23. I'm nervous about surgery just because it's a major procedure but confident with my decision. I'm claiming all will be well. The pathology will come back and there will be NO MORE CANCER! I will get my radiation and come spring my new breasts and sucked stomach, and will continue my life!

Hello Desiree

thanks for sharing your story. I liked you comment new breasts, sucked stomach and will continue life. And NO MORE CANCER!! You and I are on a similar timeline for surgery. I am having bilateral mastectomy with reconstruction surgery on 1/11/23.

We Got This !! 💕

Stacey

Desiree, Yes absolutely ! I am happy we connected. During my pre-op appointment nurse was concerned about my high blood pressure. said if too high they might need to reschedule my surgery. ( no way). So I Made an appointment to see primary doctor to get meds or documentation that blood pressure hasn’t always been so high.

My fears tend to enter my thoughts at night when I’m trying to fall asleep. During the day I try not to think about it, however as my surgery date gets closer it’s harder to push the bad thoughts away !! I’m ready to get it done and out !! Get on with my life.

Stacey

Hello Jazalea

yes we will get through this together. I’ve only been on this site for a week but I am so glad that I reached out. Desiree’s surgery is set for 1/17 and you and I for 1/11. We can share our experiences and support each other along the way. I don’t know about y’all … but I am in a “crazy” last minute dash to get stuff done. Trying to think of everything before the big day. Any ideas or suggestions from others? For me, I bought button down shirts with pockets on inside, pouch to hold drains while in shower, special pillow for protection against fur babies, and large lounge pillow. I’m searching internet for any other items that may help.

Stacey from Florida 🐊