Why remove both breasts when you have cancer?

Canada
September 18, 2007 12:15pm CST
I read a long time ago that they can take the tumorous lump out without removing the entire breast but I still hear about women having the entire breast removed and normally the doctors take both "just in case" the other breast might get tumours. We know someone that just went through this. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in one breast and within a couple months was in for a double mastectomy. Is this preventative measures or mutilation?
4 people like this
2 responses
eden32
@eden32 (3973)
• United States
19 Sep 07
I think it's a decision only the woman experiencing can make with the guidance of her doctor. If it seems likely that it will spread,I can see the logic of doing both at once. It avoids having to have a second surgery later.
1 person likes this
HomeFlower
@HomeFlower (987)
• Canada
19 Sep 07
I'm conflicted. I can see some logic in it but I still have my reservations about the whole thing.
Gabs
@gabs8513 (48686)
• United Kingdom
20 Sep 07
Well I know from a Friend who is just going through it that you actually get the choice on that and my Friend got the Choice and took the Choice to have both removed as there is always the risk of it going in the other one
HomeFlower
@HomeFlower (987)
• Canada
20 Sep 07
I'm sorry to hear about your friend going through this, I hope everything turns out alright.
1 person likes this
Gabs
@gabs8513 (48686)
• United Kingdom
20 Sep 07
Yes I have heard it went ok and that she is up and walking today thank you