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Real members of MyBCTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

I have stage 3b idc. Er + I chose lumpectomy instead of masectomy I wonder if that was a mistake. Chemo shrunk tumor by 50%. Was I wrong?

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Aston, PA
June 1, 2024
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Navigating Treatments and Prognosis for Stage 3 Breast Cancer Read Article...
MyBCTeam

Choosing between a lumpectomy and a mastectomy is a personal decision and depends on various factors. Here are some points to consider based on the context provided:

- Effectiveness: Lumpectomy plus radiation has been shown to be as effective as mastectomy for early-stage breast cancer in terms of overall survival
- Tumor Show Full Answer

Choosing between a lumpectomy and a mastectomy is a personal decision and depends on various factors. Here are some points to consider based on the context provided:

- Effectiveness: Lumpectomy plus radiation has been shown to be as effective as mastectomy for early-stage breast cancer in terms of overall survival.
- Tumor Size and Location: Lumpectomy is often preferred for smaller tumors that are easily removed. Since your tumor shrunk by 50% with chemotherapy, this might have made lumpectomy a viable option.
- Radiation Therapy: After a lumpectomy, radiation therapy is commonly used to kill any remaining cancer cells.
- Personal Preference: Your comfort with the procedure and how it affects your self-image and mental health are important considerations.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific medical situation and personal preferences. It's always a good idea to discuss any concerns with your oncologist to ensure you are on the right path.

June 1, 2024
A MyBCTeam Member

Just like the article above reads. What you decide is your own personal choice. There are many different factors that come into place with a lot of decisions to make. Also never second guess your decisions. All of this is overwhelming to begin with. If your not comfortable with a treatment follow your inner voice vibe. Each step of this journey has its pros and cons with it.

June 2, 2024
A MyBCTeam Member

Hi Karen, it’s really up to you and the surgeon. You might want to read up on it some more and see what you feel most comfortable with. You can still change your decision if need be. I had canceled my surgeries twice for different reasons just a couple of days prior. I think the doctors are used to that. Just think it through for yourself and see what your inner voice says. As the article says above, sometimes you don’t need radiation if you go with mastectomy, unless it’s in your lymph nodes as well. All the best in your decision!

June 2, 2024
A MyBCTeam Member

along this journey- but as long as you listened to the advice and to your inner voice, you have done the best anyone could do. Keeping you in prayers- and sending hugs!

June 4, 2024
A MyBCTeam Member

There are always moments of second guessing ourselves about the decisions

June 4, 2024

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