2nd Diagnosis

I too, have been diagnosed twice with breast cancer.  The first time I was 35 and had extensive DCIS (9cm) which resulted in a mastectomy but no chemo or radiation as it had not spread to my lymph nodes.  The second time I was 42 and this time it was invasive ductal carcinoma.  I had another mastectomy and this time, chemo.

In retrospect I wish that I had had both breasts removed at the time of my first mastectomy.  It would have meant that I wouldn't have had to go through the breast cancer journey all over again and wouldn't have had to have chemo at all.  It's all very well to say that in retrospect though!  At the time of my first diagnosis, I was only 35 and I only had one family member who had had BC.  There was not a strong family history.  I was also not ready to lose both of my breasts.....  When I was diagnosed a second time, I had a cousin who was also diagnosed around the same age/time and due to that I was able to go for genetic testing.  I don't carry the BRCA1/2 mutations so there is no genetic reason for me getting breast cancer (twice!).

I guess in the end you have to be comfortable with your decision.  If you will forever be worrying about a third breast cancer scare, then maybe you should have them both removed.....but I know that my doctor was very reluctant to remove a perfectly healthy breast.  If you want to get it done, make sure that you stand by your decision.  It is your body and you should have the right to choose what to have done.  If you decide not to have the double, then be happy with that choice too and be happy that your doctor is happy with your choice either way.  If he thought that it was likely to come back a third time, I'm sure he would have no hesitation in recommending a double mastectomy.

Hope that helps?

Louise :)