Initially I had lumpectomy and sentinel node biopsy. Pathology came back no clear margin and I had pre-cancerous tissue as well in the small breast. I was given the option of removing more tissue or prophylactic bilateral mastectomy and immediate reconstruction. I chose mastectomy. I went to a retreat for breast cancer patient who have lumpectomy and 33 radiation treatments. Four years later she had a breast cancer recurrence in the same breast. If you are uneasy about your oncologist or breast surgeon opinion what you should do next I would get a second opinion.

I had reacurance after bilateral mastectomy ! Stage 4 bone mets. They said I didn't need radiation after mastectomy !! I wish I would of! I don't think I would have been now with stage 4:(

Since starting Tamoxifen, I've had horrible acne that seems to be slightly improving & still have flare-ups before I'm supposed to be getting my period. Unfortunately I'm getting hot flashes from Menopause as well as significant period cramps but not much blood. Somehow I lucked out & got a little bit of both. I'll have to wait & see how I level out. I've had mood swings which again have been improving & I've been attributing it to my hormones coming back & trying to regulate themselves so I'm hoping they will eventually improve. Women in support group mentioned using lube as many of them were a little drier b/c of menopause. I had absolutely no sex drive while on Chemo. Afterwards on Tamoxifen is a different story. Thank God:)

Your story sounds a lot like mine. I had the lumpectomy, 4 chemo treatments followed by 20 radiation treatments. I have been taking Tamoxifen since July 1 2014. My doctor told me that I might experience hot flashes and that mood swings are common. Th hot flashes have not been to intense but I really am not a fan of the mood swings. I do believe that they have gotten better and for that I am greatful. Everyone is different and everyone reacts differently. From anything I have read Tamoxafin is a very effective drug so I will continue taking it for the prescribed time. Good luck with your radiation treatments. My skin was not really to badly effected so I was happy about that. I used a really good lotion that kept my skin well moisturized. Just keep up the fight. BC is not allowed to win!

I would get a second option as well. You should fell very comfortable with your oncologist and breast surgeon. It's not about them..it's all about you.