Decision time - lumpectomy or masectomy?

Hi Terrie, so sorry for your diagnosis but as the other ladies have said you will find such lot of information and incredible support here.
I was diagnosed with a 1.3cm invasive ductal carcinoma in July 16. My surgeon offered me a lumpectomy with radiation or a mastectomy. I am not big breasted and was concerned about clearing the margins with a lumpectomy - he agreed. To be honest at the time I just wanted the cancer out of me and do what I could to avoid any recurrence.  I had a nipple sparing left mastectomy with an immediate silicone implant to match the other side.  Straightforward, minimal pain. I was very fortunate and didn't have any lymph nodes involved.
I'm very happy with my decision and 5 months on my "new" breast is feeling more and more comfortable and the scarring underneath is less tender. I do still have 3 beautiful blue circles from the lymph node dye tho!
It's great that you have some time to make your decision Terrie.  We are all happy to share our experiences and choices but in the end just do what you feel is right for you.
wishing you all the best with your decision and next appointment. Let us know how you go.
Jane x 

I chose a mastectomy with immediate tissue expanders (I had a bilateral).  I too wasn't keen on having a malformed breast...with no nipple...as that was the unfortunate position...and then needing lots if work on remaining breast. My type of cancer had high recurrence risk so I decided for me this was my best option, especially since it was undetected by mammogram due to breast density. I have however seen great lumoectomy scars with mininal issues on others, so I guess more questions might he needed. In the end I went with my gut feeling and haven't regretted it.

Hi Terrie
Sorry you have joined the club but it's a good place for advice and support. Like you, I had no family history of breast cancer, of any cancer actually. My choice however was a mastectomy or a partial mastectomy. I suspect if a lumpectomy had been an option I would have taken it, but with hindsight I am not so sure.  I think it depends on lots of things. I wasn't attracted to a mangled breast, and didn't think I would have too much trouble about being mono boobed (I chose not to have a reconstruction for a number of good reasons). I wasn't scared of surgery (possibly out of sheer ignorance) but it was straightforward, little pain and I recovered very quickly.  My surgeon recommended a full mastectomy as leaving less risk of missing something. But there are no absolute guarantees. 4 years on I am (cross fingers) well and have no regrets about my choices. And that's probably the most important thing - that you feel comfortable your decision. Best wishes, whatever you decide.