[gumoore]

I have IBC in the left breast, so it goes without saying that when I get to surgery time, the left breast and nodes are gone.

My question involves whether to get a bilateral mastectomy, that is get a simple (prophylactic) mastectomy of the right breast at the same time. Any thoughts you could share would be appreciated.

What I know is that if there is reoccurence, it is most likely either in the same location or mets; so I know that I'm not removing my right for medical reasons, though it doesn't preclude an occurence there.

I am, however, considering the esthetics. You see, I'm a D-cup and the thought of trying to manage a prosthetic for one side only, particularly when I have to beware for lymphedema. I'm considering the pros of not requiring a bra at all, not worrying about appearance by being lop-sided (not that I think it would matter to me, but still, you never know) and having the option of being a smaller size without breast reduction surgery.

I'm not ruling out reconstructive surgery either, I'm just trying to decide on the here and now part.

Thanks,