Hello Mrs-J and thanks for your post,

I am sorry to hear about your situation. It is never easy being asked to make a decision. 

It is not uncommon to have to go back for further breast surgery. The surgeon does their best to remove the cancer and a clear margin around the area. However it is not until the pathologist has examined the tissue under the microscope that they are able to see whether this has been achieved.

There is no right or wrong answer in deciding what surgery to go with. A lot will depend on how you feel about losing your breast and whether you will cope with a bigger surgery. We have a useful page which may help in your decision making. Have a look at this page on whether to have another shave  or mastectomy

I am not sure whether the surgeon is planning on doing a reconstruction after the mastectomy or whether this is something that may or may not happen depending on how you feel.

I feel that before you make this decision you need to have more discussions with your team. I would try and ring and speak to your breast care nurse (BCN). Based on what they have removed so far are they planning other treatment. I am not sure whether you have any help at home once you have had the surgery. I would also discuss it with your family.

Breast Cancer Now has a page on helping you decide which surgery to have. You may find it helpful to read our information and Breast Cancer Now's page and then make a list of questions to ask your BCN. 

You have posted in 'ask the nurses' but if you post on another thread or start your own you may find it helpful to hear from other women who have had to make similar decisions.

You are also very welcome to ring the help line nurses. The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

All the best,

Catherine

I had a third op when margins weren't clear after 2nd go. It worked although another separate area has since been identified and may now need masectomy. If you have good sized breasts a cavity shave is probably good. Talk to your team and see how confident they are that they can get clear margins. Good luck x

Thanks for responding Blue Satsuma x Best wishes for your journey