decision to make

[castjs]

I am 48 with history of breast cancer in my family. I recently had a lumpectomy and it was stage one grade three cancer. The margins were clear, but tumor was abutting on one margin. My surgeon wants me to have a mastectomy when he checks the lymph nodes. Do you think that is necessary?
castjs

[Cleveland Clinic]

Dear castjs: The general rule of thumb in surgical management of a single spot of breast cancer is lumpectomy with clear margins followed by radiation therapy or mastectomy.  Sometimes additional surgery is needed to yield a clear margin and a lumpectomy is still possible with a good cosmetic result.  Sometimes, removing too much tissue in a lumpectomy could result in a deformed breast. There may be additional reasons why your surgeon is recommending mastectomy.  You should have a discussion with him/her regarding the reasoning.  If you are not satisfied with the responses, you may wish to get a second surgical opinion.

[Happy4825]

I had stage one Breast Cancer, and I decided to have a Mastectomy.  I wanted no treatments.  I felt safer having  that done  This was two years ago, and I have never been sorry.  The operation isn't bad.  I hardly had any after pain.  Your Surgeon gave you good advice.


Blessings to you.

Annie