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I terms of long term survival or recurringBC...i am struggling to make a decision between lymphsectomy or bilateral mastectomy ....

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Kamloops, BC

Triple positive, with lymphnodes involvement

December 13, 2025
 · 
Reactions
A MyBCTeam Member

I am looking forward to the day when we have an easy preventative, and no more women have to face these decisions! Hugs!

December 13, 2025
A MyBCTeam Member

Thank you! Two more rounds of chemo, then 6 week break and then surgery....surgeon suggested lumpectomy as my tumors shrank quite a bit to under 1 cm. She thinks I am young and I got no genetic genes...I feel ok, but I just wanted to make sure for my headspace that I researched enough to not get mad at myself later...and hopefully with all the research, they'll come up in the future with more improved treatments....

December 13, 2025
A MyBCTeam Member

I found talking with the surgeon helpful. She only does breast surgeries, and she described exactly what the process and timelines would be for lumpectomy, and what future surgeries might be needed (lumpectomy on one side, reduction on other, etc.), mastectomy and different types of reconstruction (for which she would recommend a plastic surgeon). The timeline for chemo, depending on surgery choice. It was a lot to consider- and she never pushed one over the other, and told me that if I ever thought I had made the wrong decision, we could talk again- cancel and reschedule, or even switch surgeons- as it is important that I feel comfortable and confident in both her as a surgeon and my path forward. I did not even meet the oncologist until after I met with the surgeon, as the drug protocols start dates were dependent on my surgical decisions.

Just take in all your info- give yourself time to think over every aspect, and then listen to your inner voice. We know ourselves better than anyone, and if ever there was a time for You Do You- this is it. Keeping you in prayers as you navigate through all the information, and make the decisions that are right for you! Hugs!

December 13, 2025
MyBCTeam

What are the differences between lumpectomy and bilateral mastectomy for long-term survival and recurrence with triple-positive breast cancer and lymph node involvement?

This is a deeply personal decision, and it's completely understandable to feel torn. Both procedures can be effective treatments, but there are some Show Full Answer

What are the differences between lumpectomy and bilateral mastectomy for long-term survival and recurrence with triple-positive breast cancer and lymph node involvement?

This is a deeply personal decision, and it's completely understandable to feel torn. Both procedures can be effective treatments, but there are some differences to consider.

Research shows that lumpectomy followed by radiation has a slightly higher chance of cancer returning in the same breast compared to mastectomy. With lumpectomy plus radiation, the recurrence risk in the same breast is about 5-10%, while after mastectomy it's around 5%. However, both approaches are considered equally effective for overall survival.

Your doctor's recommendation will depend on several factors:
* Tumor size and location
* Number of tumors
* Lymph node status
* Your breast size
* Your overall health
* Your personal preferences

With lymph node involvement, your treatment plan will likely include addressing those nodes regardless of which breast surgery you choose. Some people find that mastectomy offers more peace of mind about recurrence, though it's important to know that recurrence is still possible even after mastectomy.

Take time to discuss both options thoroughly with your oncologist. They can help you understand how your specific situation—including being triple-positive with lymph node involvement—might influence which approach is best for you.

December 13, 2025

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