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Melissa · 01-14-2009, 07:58 PM

Hello,
I opted for the double. I don't believe it reduces your chance of a recurrence (same cancer), however it does reduce your chance of a new cancer in the other breast by about 98%. I was at a higher risk of cancer in the other breast since I was diagnosed young. While I know I may have to fight the battle again some day I did not want it to be from a new cancer in the other breast. If the other breast was to get cancer it would probably mean chemo again. Chemo ups my risk for other health issues. Removing both breast seemed less risky. The axillary dissection was also the hardest for me. Best wishes,

01-14-2009, 07:58 PM	#7
Melissa Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2008 Location: Virginia Posts: 116	Hello, I opted for the double. I don't believe it reduces your chance of a recurrence (same cancer), however it does reduce your chance of a new cancer in the other breast by about 98%. I was at a higher risk of cancer in the other breast since I was diagnosed young. While I know I may have to fight the battle again some day I did not want it to be from a new cancer in the other breast. If the other breast was to get cancer it would probably mean chemo again. Chemo ups my risk for other health issues. Removing both breast seemed less risky. The axillary dissection was also the hardest for me. Best wishes, __________________ Melissa 04/06, (42), 2cm tumor, 7/13 nodes, one positive node under clavicle mastectomy/reconstruction grade 3, stage lllb, er-65+, pr-90+, her2+++(80%) 4/AC, 12wks TH then 6wks rads 40 wks herceptin, and tamoxifen. onc test tamoxifen resistance = poor metabilizer 04/07 ooph & on arimidex 08/07 completed herceptin 04/2022 - 16 year survivor!