Prophylactic Mastectomy
Looking for anyone with shared experience. From my 1st mammogram 15 years ago at 40, I have had issues. Multiple biopsies and lumpectomies, tons of scar tissue as a result. I have extremely dense breast tissue, complex cysts, breast disease, multiple bilateral papillomas and just recently diagnosed with LCIS. I do not have the BRCA gene or family history of breast cancer. But my breast doctor has recently presented a prophylactic mastectomy as an option. I have mostly been on a twice yearly mammogram/ultrasound and MRI monitoring plan over the years. But I am tired, both mentally and physically. I would never suggest my issues come close to what being diagnosed with actual cancer is. But the constant worrying, probing, finding, biopsies, waiting….has taken its toll. I have anxiety every time I go in and every time I go in, they find something different or something has grown or multiplied. I am now contemplating the prophylactic mastectomy. I actually have a consultation with the breast surgeon next week. Does any one have any insight? Thank you so much in advance!
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@musicmom69, welcome to Breastcancer.org, and thank you for your post. We totally understand the exhaustion you have experienced, both mentally and physically, following all the monitoring and procedures. Hope someone chimes in soon with similar stories and support. Until you get responses from other members, here are some links that might be helpful for you to check out:
(VIDEO)
Hope this helps! Let us know how it goes next week.
Best,
The Mods
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@musicmom69, I too considered a prophylactic mastectomy years ago as I had similar issues to you plus a strong family history. I don't have the BRCA gene so that may be why I didn't continue to pursue it. I did opt for a double mastectomy when I was diagnosed as I just didn't want any more breast tissue. I know I did the right thing for me, but it really is a personal choice.
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I have family history and ADH but no genetic mutation. I am pursuing a mastectomy because I am tired of dealing with it all too.
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Thank you for all of your feedback! I just meet with a breast surgeon and have an appointment next month with a plastic surgeon. It is a lot to consider and I’m still not sure if I’ll move forward but it helps knowing others have been here.
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