For any breast cancer patients, one of the biggest fears that we all have is the fear of recurrence and for those that have had surgical intervention, they want to be uniform in appearance. Despite taking a objective look at the risk of recurrence and survival rate, many have chosed a double mastectomy so that these issues are addressed and gives the patient back their control of the situation. Having looked at what I experienced I can totally relate to this type of information as the percentages didn't make alot in impact to me, rather that we do everything we can at the time of diagnosis did. Knowing that this was a decision I made for myself, I have also talked to many breast cancer patients that echoed the same sentiment.
Myself, initially didn't even consider the option of reconstruction at any level even with a lumpectomy but a few years past my treatment I realized the assymetry was more of an issue than I realized. Many chose not to do reconstruction after their initial surgery as it may require many more surgeries and who is to say that I should be that vain? I should be happy to be alive but we are people that do consider looks important and wearing clothes that never hang right and making you feel more self consciience than you ever thought.
There are alot of choices in your treatment plan and I feel that you need to put all the cards on the table not just for tomorrow but for ten years down the road as whatever you decide you will be living the rest of your life with it. In the long run, it is your decision but make sure it is an educated one.
Make it a great day!
S