Forum Discussion
kerrie44
10 years agoMember
Decision conserving surgery or mastectomy? confused
Hi
My name is Kerrie and I am 44 years old and I have just been diagnosed with HER2 breast cancer and have to decide between breast conserving surgery or a mastectomy. I am having a hard time with...
primek
10 years agoMember
Hi Kerrie, I was diagnosed with es+ Her2+ grade3 breast cancer in late December. The initial biopsy was a grade 2 but after removal and new testing it was classified as grade 3. I had an all clear mammogram 5 weeks before finding the lump and even knowing it's location it wasn't visible due to my dense breast tissue. So I opted on bilateral mastectomy due to high family incidence (awaiting genetic testing) and had immediate reconstruction done with a fabulous breast surgeon in the public health system. I am very happy with the decision and the result. I could have had breast conserving surgery but really didn't want to have radiation if I could avoid it. I live 500km from tbat treatment. Fortunately my nodes were clear. I am also having chemo as the her2 cancers are more likely to return. Do some reading about it. Know though there is fantastic targeted treatment out there. It is your breast and your choice. As I knew my nipple was going due to the position of the tumour I couldn't personally see the point keeping part of my breast and then needing surgery to my other very large breast to balance. Goodluck on your decision and ask lots of questions. Kath