Double mastectomy for single DCIS?

Hi @rosie2410, sorry you’ve had to join us but welcome.All these bc decisions are awful aren’t they and there’s no right or wrong. Do your research and then go with what feels right for you for now. Your decision might depend on various factors ie.your age and health,lifestyle.In my 40’s I was horrified to lose a breast and so opted for lumpectomy and radiation.Despite clear margins and the cancer not being aggressive, the darn thing came back 7 yrs later.The breast was like a hard rock after radiation so I was ok about losing it in my 50’s. Fast track 12yrs and I’ve just had my other breast off because I was sick of being lopsided with a 16D boob! In my 60’s,I no longer care about breasts but value my life. I’m now flat and I’m ok with it and so is my husband. I won’t say I like it.The drawback is seeing my stomach so I wear a crop top type bra with a little padding. Know that you’ll be numb(ish)across your chest after a mastectomy. Hopefully,I won’t have to face anymore bc crap going into my 70’s. Best wishes with your decisions and keep coming back here for support. xx

@rosie2410, I am monoboobed, as I didn’t have the chance to have the other removed when elective surgery was limited during Covid.  I am now seriously thinking about it, and my surgeon says it is entirely up to me.  I don’t know about the cost: I am in the private system.
 I agree that the tummy will then loom into prominence: you might also like to listen to the podcasts by Dr Charlotte Tottman, available on this site.  Going flat does not mean you can’t wear prostheses or other supplements to your flat chest when you wish.  Good luck with your decision.

I had SMX with axillary clearance, Chemo and RT.
My surgeon and I didn't talk about taking the other breast or reconstruction at time of initial diagnosis and surgery. For me and hime we just wanted the cancer out.
Some say having DMX instead of SMX increases your need for recovery, prior to other cancer treatment.
Possibly causing a delay.
I was Mono Breasted for 18mths, and hated it. I was 18DD.
For me symmetry was very important. I considered going flat.
I've since had a Prophylactic Mastectomy and a Breast Reconstruction, because I have a larger tummy.
If I had been slimmer I may have gone flat. As I said symmetry is important to me.
I am now symmetrical with my reconstruction, and very happy with the results.
You do not have to commit to staying flat or having reconstruction.
If you are a Public patient, you could perhaps see about going on a waiting list for reconstruction, as It may take a very long time. Decline it later, as needed.
Good luck with all of your treatments.

Hi @rosie2410
I had my treatment in the private system so can’t speak for those in the public system but I had my non cancer boob removed as well as the cancer one and my breast cancer surgeon was fully supportive.
I actually had reconstruction but my decision would have been the same if I went flat as I was large breasted and wouldn’t want to be lopsided and also didn’t want the anxiety of wondering if it would appear in the other breast.
It is a very personal decision only you can make but plenty of ladies have gone the double mastectomy route.
I think it is more prevalent in other countries like the US and UK.
All the best.

I had cancer in both breasts, however if I only one had required one be removed I insisted I would want both breasts removed.  My surgeon said he would do that, so yes it is possible.  Location of tumours, diagnosis and size of my breasts allowed me to keep them both.  I do think you would have to push for both to be removed and if it is on the grounds of your mental health suffering I am quite sure they would remove both.  Another forum member and myself supported one member who was being told she could only have one removed, and she was most distraught, and she managed to get them removed in the one surgery.  Originally they were telling her no she couldn't as all the surgery was booked and only allowed time for one breast to be removed.

Do not put up with being told you will need to come back another time for the other breast to be removed.  That is not the case, but you will need to push your case in the public hospital system, but don't be fobbed off.  Wishing you all the best.  

Hi @rosie2410.  I was given a single mastectomy for high grade extensive DCIS some 8+ years ago,  There was never any discussion re the other breast and I was too dumb to even think of it.  Had I known, do I wish I had insisted on a double ?  Most definitely yes.  Being mono-boobed has its own complications with the prosthesis and clothing, let alone the view in the mirror.  I was not a candidate for skin or nipple sparing surgery. 
There is a new group on here:
https://onlinenetwork.bcna.org.au/group/29-flat-chat-no-breast-reconstruction
Join that group as there is some information which may assist you with your decision.
All the best.

Hi @rosie2410 Welcome to the forum where you will find terrific support. I know I have. Many of the women here have chosen to go completely flat rather than mono boob or reconstruction. The public system will allow this but you will need to ask your surgeon. I chose the mono boob but can definitely see the advantage to the double. The forum is often busier in the evening so you will get more feedback from others who have travelled that road. Sending you hugs as you navigate the next steps. Ask any questions you want and we will do our best to help out.