starting my journey

Welcome to BCNA. I am so sorry that you find yourself in this situation though. I gather from your post that you are trying to decide between breast conserving (lumpectomy) surgery or a mastectomy. You are concerned about having to have Radiotherapy if you choose a lumpectomy. I was not in this position but I can explain about a mastectomy and what is involved as this was the surgery I had when diagnosed last May. Firstly there is very little difference recovery wise between the two surgeries. I was surprised with how little pain I felt. A lot of the area is numb from nerves being damaged so it was more of a tight feeling rather than actual pain. After a mastectomy you may choose to wear an external prosthesis. These are very good and I honestly don't think anyone can tell that I have one even in a swimsuit. Some women also choose reconstruction surgery and there are options for this (there is a reconstruction group on here that has fantastic info if you need it). Reconstruction can sometimes be carried out at the same time as your mastectomy surgery but this is not always possible depending on your situation. I hope this info helps. If there is anything else you want to know just ask and someone will probably be able to help you. The main thing is to find out as much info as possible so you feel as comfortable as possible when you make your decision. Take care and good luck with your decision. Deanne xxx