Research indicates that, left untreated, DCIS can become invasive within 5 years.

Normally DCIS does get removed. Otherwise there’s a big chance of it becoming IDC within a few years as mentioned above by Nancy. I would not take that risk because if you keep it inside you and do follow ups with imaging, you won’t be able to pick up an early IDC occurrence since imaging only picks ups lesions over a certain threshold. Take advantage of the fact it’s early and remove as much as you can. Clearly the breast tissues are creating DCIS so they will keep creating those if nothing changes.

It’s hard to know what to do. I’d say talk with your care team and listen to your body. I know that I’ve had a lot of “buyers remorse” through my journey. I can’t undo what has been done. I can only accept it and become a better advocate for myself. No one is more of an expert on your body than you!

I had fat grafting done. It has been okay. Fat grafting requires several procedures depending on how much tissue you loose. My plastic surgeon won’t graft more than 100 grams at a time because the fat is less likely to die. He still owes me 300 grams per breast.

Radiation reduces risk of recurrence by something like 40%. Hormone blockers only reduce recurrence by 3 to 4%.

It's a highly personal decision. Keeping you in prayers while you navigate through all the information to make the decisions that are right for you. Gentle hugs!

My mom can get around and my brother will come from FL to help. I did tell my breast surgeon I didn't want to be deformed and with lumpectomy I think she said I need radiation. No mention to me just to do the radiation only. I didn't get a second opinion but did ask my primary Dr said get removed. I just had my pre admission testing this morning too. Thank you for your input.