The “lumpectomy vs. mastectomy” is a very difficult choice facing many women with breast cancer. Weighing the decision whether or not to save the breast is very stressful.
However, several medical and personal factors that may encourage you to have a mastectomy:
If your cancer is located in more than one part of your breast
If radiation therapy after surgery would not be effective or would not be appropriate for you
If your breast is already small or oddly-shaped prior to the contemplated surgery, and even a lumpectomy would leave you with very little breast tissue or a very deformed breast
If losing your breast will not cause you to become overly depressed and despondent
If having the entire breast removed would bring you greater peace of mind regarding reducing your risk of cancer recurrence
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