Should I get a double mastectomy for small triple negative breast cancer?

This is such a difficult decision to face, and it's completely understandable to feel uncertain about which surgical option is right for your situation. Many patients in this community have wrestled with similar choices, weighing factors like peace of mind, recovery time, and long-term outcomes. Consider discussing the pros and cons of both options with your surgical team, including how your specific tumor characteristics and family history might influence the decision - they can help you understand what factors are most important in your particular case.

This has to be your decision after speaking to your care team. Had breast cancer in 2014 and 11 years later, a 2nd breast cancer my thoughts are that I wish I would have had a double mastectomy and reconstruction in 2014. But that is hindsight. You do what is right for you there are no guarantees even with a mastectomy

Thank you Julie I made my decision and I had a double mastectomy on the 9th . Getting it in the other breast was one reason I did both. You are right there or no guarantees with cancer period.i am flat I don’t want reconstruction and I’m proud of it. Thanks for your response I pray everything goes well with you.

Denise, My Oncologist and Surgeon highly recommended a double mastectomy for my triple negative aggressive breast cancer and being BRCA 2 positive. I was stage 1 grade 3 Ki 75 and reran to 95. Tumor was very small but in surgery 2 found. I did as recommended and still, within 10 months metastasized to one axillary node, even though 3 nodes and breast margins were clean in surgery. At that time my big journey began with aggressive dosed IV chemotherapy, radiation, and PARP inhibitor now. No immunotherapy because too dangerous with my 5 autoimmune problems. I’m doing well overall and now 2 years out but still on med, no further Mets. Reconstructive implants is a personal choice and mine was done immediately with the mastectomies using my skin and nipples, so natural and I did very well and am pleased. I’m wishing you the best and as an RN, I recommend trusting your medical experts. Prayers 🙏

Praying all go well with you in your recovery. I started 30 rounds of radiation on Friday. I am getting some P. T. As well due to tightness in my ribcage. I will wait 1 month after radiation then start Endocrine therapy for 2yrs along with 5 yrs of AI. Having reconstruction in 4-6 months. Wishing us all better health in 2026.

Julie, Best wishes with your continued treatments and recovery. You will be pleased with reconstruction too. 🙏

Thanks Irene