Hello, 

This is my first post. Hello everyone

My head is spinning. Three weeks ago after noticing an indent in the lower part of my left breast I was told I have Breast Cancer. God knows how long I failed to notice it or do anything about it. I'm 53 and have had 2 mammograms in recent years with no concerns. 
It seems like it been taking forever but today I finally got the last of my test results. I'm told the cancer is oestrogen positive, Her2 negative invasive ductal cancer. The tumour is around 4cm by 3cm and fine needle aspiration of one of two suspicious looking armpit nodes has confirmed cancer spread there too. No evidence of spread further so far which was a huge relief.

I have surgery booked in for 2 weeks tomorrow. The consultant has said he thinks a wide local incision to remove the tumour and axilliary node clearance will be possible, then chemo and radiotherapy later.

I'm just not sure whether it would be best to have a mastectomy. Not sure whether this would be the safer long term option. I've asked to see the consultant again before surgery to discuss why he isn't suggesting a mastectomy but wanted to ask on here what your thoughts/experiences/preferences would be. 
Thanks in advance x