prophylactic surgery

[lizabeth315]

I saw my ongologist two weeks ago. I had my momogram and ultra sound.  My oncologist said i needed to make sone descissions about my breast . What kind of fpllow through to go. I have had several biopsy's.  About thirteen over the last eight years. Mother died from BC sister has had BC, cousins aunts have both died very young from this disease.  My breast no are so full of lumps, scar tissue and calcification clusters. My Onc. is recomending a MRI and possibly Prophylactic surgery. I was stunned. I have been havjng mammo's and ultra sounds along with biopsy's over the last two yrs. I was on Tomoaxfin for two yrs. And went off due to blood clots.  Any input for this kind of surgery would be most helpful.  

[Woodstockmom]

Yes--huge decision and only one you can make.  I too recently had a prophylactic mastectomy on right breast (cancer already present in left breast) in late September.  Vacillated between TRAM and latissimus dorsi--chose the later and have no regrets.  Agree--do lots of research--I even sought out 3 opinions.  My goal was two-fold--lowest possible risk of reoccurence and best possible cosmetic outcome.  Did not want to have to experience this again or have to participate in any other therapies--tamaxfin, radiation, chemo, etc.

Have not had any complications--just some mild discomfort with my expanders as they're filled--halfway done and hope to have implants in by Christmas.

Happy to share anything else--just let me know.

[urstandingonmytoes2007]

I too recently had a prophylactic mastectomy...it is a very big decision.  Please make sure you educate yourself well.  I had a DIEP flap reconstruction after two failed implant reconstructions.  I wish I had done the DIEP flap immediately!  I had an amazing surgeon that gave me a beautiful result.  The Diep flap recovery has not been bad at all and I spent four days in the hospital.  If you want to know anything else just send me an email address and I will gladly share my experience.