[Estelle]

This is a really personal decision. I had a lumpectomy and bilateral reduction (I was large), but when the path report came back with 10 + nodes (Stage 3c) I changed my plan. My cancer was very small .7 cm and another 1 cm in the same duct -- only detected in a mammogram. I figured if some that small did that much damage, the ladies just had to go. At the time I opted for no reconstruction -- I was only interested in finishing my treatment as soon as possible, without any possibility of complications from reconstruction slowing that down. But I had 10 positive nodes and considered myself blessed that it had not already spread. I have not regretted my decision, although now (2 years NED), I am thinking about maybe some reconstruction. I'll probably wait another year before deciding. Bottom line -- have a conversation about options down the line if you opt for a mastectomy and no immediate reconstruction now. I'm 61, I didn't think I cared at all, but surprise, I do care -- at least a little.

Hope this helps.