Should I have a mastectomy

7 years ago I was treated for what was originally believed to be an occult breast cancer due to a massive, matted lump of  cancerous lymph nodes in my armpit. I had a level one lymph node dissection, chemotherapy, radiation and 5 years of tamoxifen. I wa 47 years old. I never had breast surgery because my local doctors could never identify a primary breast tumor.  I stupidly believed the "benign" lesion in my breast seen on MRI was benign...it disappeared with chemo which led me to a renowned cancer center for a second opinion. They told me that the "benign" lesion was indeed the cancer and that a lumpectomy now would serve no purpose, a "ghostectomy" they called it, because they would never be sure if they were excising the correct area, therefore I could eiter have a mastectomy or be followed with breast MRIs yearly. I chose the MRIs and so far, so good, no return of cancer.  Now that I am off of the tamoxifen and truly unable to tolerate the AIs, I am wondering if there is a benefit to having a mastectomy now?

[Cleveland Clinic]

Dear anacristina:  We can not give specific medical recommendations on this forum. You should discuss the pros and cons with your physicians.