Unilateral vs. Bilateral - what did you do?

Hi Mighty Oak

I see you are 3 days post surgery, hope you are feeling ok. I was just wondering if you could share how painful it is? Personal question I know but I am about to have double mastectomy (with recon), I'd be really keen to understand how your feeling of you don't mind. Understand if you don't want to share that. Thanks Claire 

Hi. I havent had my surgery yet but have made the decision for bilateral. I have a strong family history (4th female with bc and mother also had bowel cancer). I am awaiting genetic consult for the gene testing but as I have early breast cancer and don't want to go through radiotherapy and tamoxifen if I can help it, I've opted for the bilateral mastectomy and immediate reconstruction. I'm waiting for my surgery date, likely to be this week or next. I'm terrified if surgery but happy with my decision. It was the hardest decision I've made and I think a very personal one. Good luck, hope you make the right choice for you. Claire

I opted on a bilateral mastectomy even though I am still awaiting genetic consult. Even if I turn out not to carry the gene...the fact my palpable breast lump was not visible on mammogram due to my breast density was enough for me. I'd  been having mammograms for 10 years because of family history and early detection wasn't  possible. At least now it is just about self exam and await the genetic testing regarding ovarian cancer risks. It is not an easy decision but one I am happy with. Kath.

Hi Naomi.  Sorry that you are going through this.  I have the BRCA2 gene, I too wasn't diagnosed with my gene until after my bilateral mastectomy (age 39).  My three tumours where very aggressive and had spread to lymphnodes.  I am very glad and relieved that both my breasts have been removed.  I just didn't want to have any added risk of getting this dreadful disease and just because your chances of a recurrence is so much higher when you carry the gene.  I have also had a full hysterectomy towards the end of last year and although surgically induced menoupause without hormone replacement therapy has been a challenge, I am happy that that has been done too.  There is a lot of information on this website of many ladies that have been through similar paths but my two cents is have both done!  It is best for aesthetics too and will give you added piece of mind.

Good luck.  Rene

Hi Naomi, I'm three days post surgery. I opted for a double mastectomy even though one of my breasts was healthy. I don't have the brca gene but I didn't want another hiding spot for bc to call home. I am one of the people who doesn't want reconstruction but I do want symmetry! My surgeon was supportive of my decision and understood the anxiety I would have had leading up to yearly mammograms. It's not as confronting as I thought it might be. I'm happy with my decision :-)

mighty oak