Lumpectomy versus mastectomy

[Ann W]

Is it more common to have mastectomy rather than lumpectomy when diagnosed as er-pr-her2neu+? I had lumpectomy, A/C, taxotere and radiation and am wondering if I should have insisted on mastectomy. My surgeon said he did not think that was any better than lumpectomy in the long run. Any thoughts or experiences would be appreciated. Thanks - and hope everyone is able to relax this week-end

[beverly]

I was given a choice re: lumpectomy or masectomy but chose the mast. since my first biopsy they found cancer in the lymphatic channels so we already knew that the cancer was going places. I had 7 of 12 nodes pos for cancer and am glad I made the decision to have the mast. I am ER- and Her2/neu3+. My surgeon said it was a good decision. My husband and family also encouraged me to go this route. My hus. said he wanted his wife more than a breast. I appreciated that. The best to you. Bev

[Sandy]

I think we are all different. Lumpectomy was not an option for me and I was ER/PR neg. her2 pos. and IBC which makes it even worse. I think its wonderful for those that can have the lumpectomy. I know of several people that have had them and they are fine and its been several years. I also think its what ever you are comfortable with along with what you doctor advises. Hugs, Sandy

[Lisa]

I believe your doctor's right. The recurrence/survival statistics don't vary significantly from lumpectomy to mastectomy. And the ER, PR, and HER2 factors won't change, regardless. It's really more about the size of the tumor and finding clean margins. In 2000, I had lumpectomy with 21 neg nodes, A/C/T, then mastectomy, because my margins just weren't really clear enough on the lumpectomy. So even with all that AND neg. nodes, now I've got liver and bone mets. My advice is don't start second-guessing yourself. You did your research, I assume, you found a doctor you trusted, I assume, then you made your treatment choices. All you can do at that point is to forge ahead. Forget the "what ifs", forget the statistics. Stay on top of followup exams, and get on with your life the best way possible. IF a recurrence happens, you'll deal with it then. The ole "cross that bridge when...and IF...you come to it!"

Love and light,

Lisa

[jojo]

Recent research data indicates that there isn't any significant difference in survival rates, comparing mast. vs. lump.

I was offered to select 1 option of 2: mast. or lump. I was told that if lump., I'd have about 10% chance of possible LOCAL recurrence.

Because I'd had necrosis surrounding my primary tumor, I then chose mast.

Now, pondering about whether to go for tram flap or just stick to bra prostehsis...

Any input?

[beverly]

I was supposed to have my first part of my tran flap surgery this week, instead I am having chemo for mets to the bone. I am gratful I did not have that surgery since I would have started in weakened condition.

[chere]

yes i opted for lumpectomy. they reached negative margins 1mm from the chest wall on superficial margins. i continued on with all treatments with herceptin trial 3rd arm a/c taxol 7 weeks daily rads and 56 weeks herceptin.

i had my reasons and preferences and took the risk. my dx was nov 01 and i'm still ned 6/04 so far! one ca test came back high so doc has ordered bone scan/cat and diagnostic routine mammo.

i am not sorry i have made the choice i did. i prayed a lot about it.

best wishes and feel free to email me with any quetions.

chere farr