Mastectomy on the other breast
Hi,
I had a mastectomy on my left breast in January. No reconstruction. I recovered well and relatively quickly. My other breast is "busy," according to my oncologist . I am seriously thinking about getting a mastectomy on the other side as well. Not because it will eliminate cancer on that breast, but my surgeon says this will substsantially reduce the risk of new cancer of that breast.
I am supposed to have screenings every 6 months, and I just dread going. The last one (in February), I was just straight out crying non-stop because it was too triggering. I also think about cancer everyday. I think getting the mastectomy on the other breast will give me more peace of mind, even if there is no survival advantage.
What have you done? Did you "wait and monitor"? Or did you get the other breast done too? Are you comfortable with the decision you made? Anything you wish you had considered / thought differently?
Thank you so much!
Comments
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Hi @channel1922,
We're so sorry to hear that your recent screening appointment was so rough - the PTSD and scanxiety that results from having survived a breast cancer diagnosis is a real thing that many survivors face unfortunately. The consideration of getting a preventative mastectomy is a very valid one — while weighing your decisions, you may find this older discussion thread to be helpful:
Considerations: Lumpectomy w/ Radiation vs Single Mastectomy vs Bilateral Mastectomy
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