Deciding btw lumpectomy or prophylactic mastectomy and reconstruction

Posted by gonzalad @gonzalad, Oct 11, 2022

Hi,
A few weeks after my 42 birthday, I was diagnosed with stage 1 grade 1 invasive lobular carcinoma and found out I am a BRCA2 mutation carrier.
I am struggling between doing a lumpectomy and high-risk screening or a double mastectomy. And if I do the double mastectomy, the flaps or the implants. I have talked to many doctors as I am blessed to be a Mayo Clinic patient. To the best of my abilities, I have been trying to understand the risks of either path.
I would love to hear from other women that had struggle with a similar decision and who have decided on either path,

Thank you for your kindness and for sharing, though my moment of darkness, your light with me.

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Breast Cancer Support Group.

Colleen Young, Connect Director | @colleenyoung | Oct 11, 2022

Welcome @gonzalad.
Allow me to list a few relevant discussions that you may wish to review:
- Bilateral Mastectomy without Reconstruction Recovery Timeline https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/bilateral-mastectomy-without-reconstruction-recovery-timeline/
- Bilateral mastectomy and DIEP flap reconstruction experiences https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/bilateral-mastectomy-and-deip-flap-reconstruction-experiences/
- Mastectomy and breast reconstruction pros and cons? https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mastectomy-1/

I'd also like to bring fellow members like @anjalima @marykaym63 @corinneberg @beku @polianad22 who can share their experiences around decision making and the criteria they used for themselves.

As you point out, you have great guidance from your Mayo team and everyone is different. But it's not easy and talking with others can help.

Gonzalad, are your leaning in one direction or the other?

lisakinpa | @lisakinpa | Oct 12, 2022

Welcome fellow “lobster “ (those of us diagnosed with lobular breast cancer).

I’m sending lots of positive vibes for peace and strength as you begin your journey as most might agree that the first few months of a diagnosis are usually the hardest.

Deciding on the best course of action is difficult but you’re in the best hands at the Mayo Clinic.

Perhaps your team can help guide your decision given that you are BRCA1.

I would feel given your early stage, the BRCA1 would take front and center. ♥️🙏♥️