Lumpectomy or Mastectomy

I was diagnosed with stage 2, grade 3 triple negative breast cancer in April and am coming to the end of my 8 cycles of neo-adjuvant chemotherapy which has been really tough.

It’s now time to decide on surgery, my oncologist recommends lumpectomy with radiotherapy, however, I am so worried about recurrence.  I think for me, a mastectomy would give me more closure on what I’ve been through and would reduce the risk of a primary recurrence (in my opinion).  I know there is a larger risk of distant recurrence, unfortunately.  Obviously it’s a much bigger surgery and recovery will be tougher but I kind of see it as a “once it’s done, it’s done” sort of thing.  It would also hopefully remove the need for radiation as long as my lymph nodes are clear.  

Does anybody have any thoughts on the 2 options or personal experiences they could share to help me decide?  I know it’s a personal decision but any advice is welcomed. 

  • Hi BW123,

    I am glad to hear that you feel happy with your decision and know in yourself that you have done everything you can to prevent recurrence.

    It shouldn't be that much longer before you have surgery. You may find that you'll be quite tired at Christmas, so try to get as much as you can done before your mastectomy.

    Kind regards,

    Jolamine xx