A prophylactic mastectomy is a procedure that removes one or both breasts to help prevent breast cancer. Studies have found this surgery can reduce breast cancer risk in high-risk women by at least 90 percent.
However, deciding to remove your breasts can sometimes impact your self-confidence and quality of life. To overcome these effects, many women choose to reconstruct their breasts after a prophylactic mastectomy.
When Should You Have a Prophylactic Mastectomy?
High-risk women often undergo a prophylactic mastectomy to ease their worries about developing breast cancer. You may choose to have a prophylactic mastectomy if any of the following statements apply to your situation:
- You have tested positive for a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation.
- You are a first degree relative of someone with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation.
- You have a strong family or personal history of breast cancer.
- You received radiation treatment to the chest between the ages of 10 and 30.
- You have a greater than 20 percent lifetime risk of invasive breast cancer due to family history and other factors.
Having more than one of these risk factors can increase your total chance of getting breast cancer. It is important to work with your health care provider to estimate your risk and determine if preventative surgery is right for your unique situation.
Prophylactic Mastectomy and Breast Reconstruction
Breast reconstruction is an option during or after a prophylactic mastectomy. Breast reconstruction procedures and techniques can help restore the shape of your breasts. It can also help bring back your feelings of femininity and confidence.
Your options for reconstruction include the use of breast implants or the use of your own tissue. Shaping and fat grafting techniques can be used to achieve the most natural and aesthetically pleasing results possible. Since some methods are only available at the time of mastectomy, patients who plan for reconstruction from the beginning enjoy access to a wider range of choices.
Schedule Your Lone Tree Breast Reconstruction Consultation
Our board-certified plastic and breast reconstruction surgeons lead the region in advanced surgical methods and are known for their outstanding outcomes. Call 303-706-1100 today to schedule a consultation. The Breast Center Park Meadows Cosmetic Surgery serves Denver and Lone Tree, Colorado, as well as patients nationwide.
