I went to a multi disciplinary cancer center and was able to meet with a breast surgeon, oncologist and radiation oncologist all before making a treatment decision. At the time, my biopsy indicated 3 DCIS areas spanning 6 cm on one side, and I was pending the biopsy results from the area of concern on the second side. At that center, they also had nurse navigators. Both the primary surgeon and the nurse navigator were available for me to ask questions about different options before I decided on a treatment path. I also had genetic testing before deciding. I gave myself two weeks to gather information and make a decision. I chose a bi-lateral mastectomy with reconstruction after also meeting with a plastic surgeon to understand options and outcomes. After my surgery, my diagnosis was changed to IDC (invasive) so I am glad I understood the potential treatment paths before I decided. I encourage you to continue asking questions and to look for a patient navigator through your surgeons office, or insurance or local cancer support community. Good luck in making your decision!

I also have my whole team working together which is wonderful and I also had the genetic testing done which was a blessing since I am the first with any type of cancer in my family and it turned out to also be invasive so after being on hormone therapy that started in Jan, then 6 rounds of chemo because of cancer was found in my axillary lymph nodes (2) I have a surgery date now of June 27th for a bilateral mastectomy with targeted Axillary dissection . I will not be having reconstruction right away, Im 64 yrs old and honestly I am ready to go back to work and these girls are pretty much gone from the Chemo anyhow 😉

It sounds like you have a lot of questions and uncertainty. I saw my oncologist before and I think you should too to set your mind at ease. I had DCIS and lobular in the same breast and had a double mastectomy. It was the right decision for me.

I will not be meeting with my oncologist until after surgery. The oncology surgeon was very informative and answered all my questions. I met with the plastic surgeon and he was also very helpful and knowledgeable. I have a nurse navigator that is quick to respond any time I send a text or leave her a voicemail.