Mastectomy this Thursday..
I am booked in for a single mastectomy (followed by chemo and radio) this Thursday. I tried to discuss with my surgeon the possibility of removing both breasts at the same time, one being preventative...
Forum Discussion
I love a bit of scientific evidence base for decision making and a research so much in my spare time. However when making surgery decisions for myself, it goes beyond quantifiable benefits/risks.
I had a cancer than would typically be removed by lumpectomy. But I chose a skin sparing mastectomy (and immediate recon).
I had a few reasons, but first and foremost was anxiety. Thankfully my care team were respectful of this being a valid reason for my choice.
I know that I only reduced my recurrence risk by a tiny amount and that the mortality rate is essentially the same with either option. But stress is scientifically shown to cause disease. No one would be able to easily quantify the overall health benefits of me sleeping peacefully each night, versus constant thoughts of doubt and worry had a chosen a lumpectomy instead. I knew the statistics, I knew a lumpectomy would be adequate, but anxiety is a fickle beast who doesn't tend to like logic!
I had a cancer than would typically be removed by lumpectomy. But I chose a skin sparing mastectomy (and immediate recon).
I had a few reasons, but first and foremost was anxiety. Thankfully my care team were respectful of this being a valid reason for my choice.
I know that I only reduced my recurrence risk by a tiny amount and that the mortality rate is essentially the same with either option. But stress is scientifically shown to cause disease. No one would be able to easily quantify the overall health benefits of me sleeping peacefully each night, versus constant thoughts of doubt and worry had a chosen a lumpectomy instead. I knew the statistics, I knew a lumpectomy would be adequate, but anxiety is a fickle beast who doesn't tend to like logic!