Forum Discussion
Julez1958
3 years agoMember
Hi@Joanne66
My cancer was also lobular - called the “ sneaky” breast cancer as it often doesn’t show on a mammogram and also often ends up more extensive than first thought.
Initially my breast cancer surgeon was discussing a choice of a lumpectomy or a mastectomy but after the MRI the advice was firmly in favour of mastectomy due to the size of the tumour.
I ended up having double mastectomy with delayed DIEP flap surgery 8 months after my radiotherapy was finished ( most don’t have radiotherapy after a mastectomy but I was recommended it due the size of my tumour).
I was 62 on diagnosis and asked my plastic surgeon if I was too old for reconstructive surgery and he said he had done women in their 70s and general health was just as important.
These are difficult decisions made at a time of extreme emotional upheaval .
If you ask to join the private group on here “ Choosing Breast Reconstruction “ there are lots of personal stories and photos I found very helpful in coming to my decision.
I talked to my GP, breast care nurse and also was lucky enough to have a friend who knew some one who had recently had a double mastectomy with DIEP flap surgery and I was able to tell with her which was extremely helpful.
I am happy with my decision but many women choose to go flat as well and that’s fine too - these are very personal decisions.
I had always been big breasted so the idea of going flat was a bridge too far for me but with my age I did go through a lot of anxiousness in coming to my decision.
Also double mastectomy versus single is also a big decision not for everybody .
Take care .
If you add your location yo your profile others may be able to give more targeted advice.
I am in Sydney and had my operations at St Vincent’s Private.
My cancer was also lobular - called the “ sneaky” breast cancer as it often doesn’t show on a mammogram and also often ends up more extensive than first thought.
Initially my breast cancer surgeon was discussing a choice of a lumpectomy or a mastectomy but after the MRI the advice was firmly in favour of mastectomy due to the size of the tumour.
I ended up having double mastectomy with delayed DIEP flap surgery 8 months after my radiotherapy was finished ( most don’t have radiotherapy after a mastectomy but I was recommended it due the size of my tumour).
I was 62 on diagnosis and asked my plastic surgeon if I was too old for reconstructive surgery and he said he had done women in their 70s and general health was just as important.
These are difficult decisions made at a time of extreme emotional upheaval .
If you ask to join the private group on here “ Choosing Breast Reconstruction “ there are lots of personal stories and photos I found very helpful in coming to my decision.
I talked to my GP, breast care nurse and also was lucky enough to have a friend who knew some one who had recently had a double mastectomy with DIEP flap surgery and I was able to tell with her which was extremely helpful.
I am happy with my decision but many women choose to go flat as well and that’s fine too - these are very personal decisions.
I had always been big breasted so the idea of going flat was a bridge too far for me but with my age I did go through a lot of anxiousness in coming to my decision.
Also double mastectomy versus single is also a big decision not for everybody .
Take care .
If you add your location yo your profile others may be able to give more targeted advice.
I am in Sydney and had my operations at St Vincent’s Private.