Do you know what type of breast cancer you have and has the decision been left to you re lumpectomy vs mastectomy? Sometimes your consultant will give you a good idea of what your care team would recommend. It can be difficult if the decision is left to you, when you probably know enough about your diagnosis to choose the right option. It really does need to be your decision, as you are the person who'll have to live with the outcome. Do as much research as you can to ensure that you'll be happy with your choice. You may find it helpful to draw up a list of questions for your next visit to the consultant. I had a lumpectomy 16 years ago, but had another cancer in the same breast and pre-cancer in the other within less than a year. I had a double mastectomy for the second bout and I've never looked back.
Do please let us know what you opt for. Whatever decision you make, I hope that it'll be the right one for you. We are always here for you.
Most consultants don't usually want to remove a whole breast unless it's absolutely necessary. Where people on this site have been advised to have a single mastectomy, some have wanted a double, just to even things up, but most surgeons agree that this does not improve their chances. However, don't be afraid to ask your consultants any questions you have. I found it easiest to write down all my questions and to take a list to my consultations - that way I didn't forget anything important.
Best of luck with your decision. Please let us know what you decide. We are always here for you.
