How do I choose between lumpectomy and double mastectomy at 39?

Do your research. Everyone has a different thought process. I was stage 2b (lymph nodes found to be involved during surgery). I opted for DMX over lumpectomy. I couldn't deal with the if/when it would happen to the other breast. I also didn't want yo deal with to being symmetrical. I thought that would be a constant reminder.

Yes I'm really scared thinking of the constant if/when will it happen again.

I had a 1cm and did lumpectomy and had clear margins. It’s definitely a tough call. My genetics were clean and my KI 67 was low but if they were not I would have had a DMX. Also if I was HER+ or TNBC would have had it as well. It’s tough. The percentage of a relapse with a DMX is about 2% lower. It’s not much BUT any good percentage may help for a peace of mind. Good luck.

Hi, Kari, definitely wait for all of your results before making your decision. I was leaning towards a lumpectomy before I had the MRI and genetic results, but after the MRI results, I opted for a single mastectomy, and my genetic results confirmed the single mastectomy for me. I was 37 when I was diagnosed last Sept. Everyone has their own circumstances to think about.

I am 64 and my cancer 11 months ago was in my left breast. My oncologist told me that it was healthier for me to keep one breast. She said it was important for my body and I did. October 23, 2024, I had my surgery with direct implant. My plastic surgeon recommended the mentor brand. I got a lift in my right breast for both to be symmetrical. I got my oncotype results with a score of 10, no need for chemo or radiation. I am currently taking my daily medication and will be for 5 long years! I think you should get a second opinion about your healthy breast. Nothing is certain but I don’t feel comfortable when a doctor is so certain about you getting cancer in your healthy breast as long as you don’t carry the gene. Be proactive and think about you and your health! As long as having something in your breast, now a days the implants are safe and made differently. Good luck

The .5% is a published statistic. It's not just my surgeon being sure. Also, having dense tissue makes me 4-6x more likely to get bc. When I look at my chances as a whole, it's scary and no one educates young women on what it really means to have dense tissue. I wish I would've known sooner. I committed to my dmx to flat yesterday with the option for reconstruction later.

I had a dmx to flat this year, on hormone blocker now for 5years after having surgery then radiation. It’s your body snd take your time. There is usually no emergency and need to rush. Although they will rush you the first month or two, then it all slows down. I didn’t want the worry of mammograms in one breast every year, and didn’t want the worry of implant problems. I just really wanted to be done with it!

I agree with Susan S. I had same as her

This decision feels overwhelming, and it's completely understandable to struggle with weighing all these complex factors at such a young age. Many people in this community have faced similar crossroads between surgical options, and the considerations about future risk, body image, reconstruction challenges, and personal health sensitivities make this choice deeply personal. Consider discussing these specific concerns about symmetry and your body's sensitivities with your medical team, and remember that others here may have valuable insights to share about their own decision-making process.

I did a lumpectomy for a big tumor about 3.5 cm. I was really happy with result. Look up oncoplastic surgeons or involve a plastic surgeon in your decision! I’ll have a small lift on the opposite breast if radiation lifts the c boob! The plastic surgeon can really help give you the best options aesthetically. I had a lot of discussions with my oncologist about DMX vs lumpectomy. I’m 41 and no one told me DMX was necessary. I had a negative genetic results. Had that been positive, no brainer for DMX.

Also, I agree with the women above, it’s such a personal choice. I do think getting the data and making the informed decision is the best way to go. One point is doing implants after radiation isn’t always best so keep that in mind. It’s not impossible just carries more risk.