Lumpectomy vs. Mastectomy

Clinical studies have demonstrated little difference in survival rates for women who have breast cancer and choose either a lumpectomy plus radiation or a mastectomy (1, 2). Each person has to decide which treatment is right for her.

Consider the following when making your decision:

• Your age and overall quality of health
• Later peace of mind about how the cancer was treated
• Grade and stage of cancer
• Importance of keeping your breast
• Whether all the cancer and a small amount of surrounding good tissue (“clear margins”) can be obtained
• Whether you are pregnant
  
  

Consider the following questions about a mastectomy:

• How will I feel to wake up after surgery missing a breast?
• Should I have immediate reconstruction? (Reconstruction is not mandatory and no time limit exists on when it can be done.)
• Will I be comfortable wearing an external breast prosthesis (or nothing)?
  
  

Consider the following questions about undergoing radiation following a lumpectomy:

• Will you be available for radiation treatment five days a week for several weeks?
• Has previous radiation therapy been administered to the affected breast or chest?
• Do you have any health conditions, such as heart disease, that would exclude you from receiving radiation therapy?
  
  

Reflect on the advantages and disadvantages of both options and discuss any concerns with your health care provider. Taking an active role in your treatment can help you feel empowered during a vulnerable time.

Talking with other women who made the same decision you are making can help immensely. To talk with a survivor who had a lumpectomy with radiation or a mastectomy (with or without reconstruction), call the YourShoes 24/7 Breast Cancer Support Center at 1-800-221-2141 (interpreters available in more than 150 languages).

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