@mimi09 My best wishes to you! I also am a lobular patient so your story speaks to me, as well as your age. You don't say why they thought you needed a mastectomy. I don't know if anyone "needs" reconstruction. When I was diagnosed with stage 1b, my dr at the time wanted me to have a mastectomy "because it's lobular." Maybe she knew more than I did. That had been her choice when she was diagnosed in her 40s. Still, I chose a lumpectomy and changed doctors. But I thought at the time that reconstruction at this age...is a lot of work. Everyone's choice is personal and so many factors are involved. Please let us know how you fare with your recovery. Power naps are the best! (the gel was also kind to me during radiation. We all need a supportive friend.)