A surgical operation known as a bilateral preventive mastectomy involves the removal of both breasts in an effort to reduce the risk of breast cancer developing in the patient. After having a mastectomy, some women choose to have reconstructive surgery in order to rebuild the size and shape of their breasts. This process is known as mastectomy reconstruction.
There are many alternative approaches that can be employed for reconstruction, and the approach that is selected for a particular patient will be contingent on that patient’s unique set of requirements and objectives. Breast implants, flap surgery (in which tissue is taken from another region of the body and used to rebuild the breasts), and procedures that combine the two are all prevalent forms of breast reconstruction.
In most cases, persons who are at an extremely high risk of getting breast cancer are the only ones who are given the recommendation to undergo bilateral preventative mastectomy. Women who have a strong breast cancer history in their family, a genetic mutation that raises their risk of breast cancer (such as BRCA1 or BRCA2), or a personal history of breast cancer may fall into this category.
The choice to have a preventative mastectomy is an extremely personal one, and it is one that should only be made after great consideration and consultation with a qualified medical expert. Reconstructive procedures following a mastectomy might take place at the same time as the mastectomy itself, or they can be postponed until a later period.
People who have a high likelihood of developing breast cancer may find that having a preventative bilateral mastectomy provides them with a number of potential advantages to their health.
The removal of both breasts through this treatment can dramatically lower the risk of developing breast cancer because there will be no breast tissue behind which cancer could form. This can be especially helpful for those who have a significant breast cancer history in their family or a genetic mutation that makes them more susceptible to developing the disease in their own bodies. Individuals who are concerned about their risk of breast cancer and may feel apprehensive about the chance of obtaining the disease may find that having a preventative mastectomy alleviates some of their anxiety about the likelihood of developing the disease. Prophylactic mastectomy can significantly reduce the risk of breast cancer, but it is not a guarantee that cancer will not develop. It is important for individuals to continue to undergo regular screenings and follow-up care as recommended by their medical professionals.
It is important to note that while prophylactic mastectomy can significantly reduce the risk of breast cancer, it is not a guarantee that cancer will not develop.
A preventive double mastectomy can cut the chance of getting breast cancer by up to 95%. By taking out the breast tissue, there is no longer any tissue that could turn cancerous. This can give people who are at a high risk of getting breast cancer and may be worried about their chances of getting it peace of mind. Some people may also feel better physically and emotionally after having the procedure because they no longer have to worry about getting breast cancer.
But it’s important to remember that a preventive mastectomy is a major surgery that comes with risks. Some of the risks and problems that could happen with a preventive mastectomy are infection, bleeding, scarring, and a change in how the breasts or nipples feel. Before making a decision, people who are thinking about getting a prophylactic mastectomy should talk to a doctor about the possible risks and benefits of the procedure.
Dr Mansi Chowhan is a renowned surgical oncologist who has worked in the field for more than 11 years. During her post-graduate studies, she was honoured with a gold medal for her outstanding performance. She specialises in breast oncoplasty, head and neck surgery, and reconstructive operations, making her a highly qualified surgeon. Dr Mansi has been practising medicine for over 11 years and has worked at some of the most prestigious hospitals in the Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR), including Fortis Healthcare (Delhi and Gurgaon), Artemis Hospital (Gurgaon), Paras Hospital (Gurgaon), and the Asian Institute of Medical Sciences (Faridabad).
About
Dr. Mansi Chowhan
Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon-Surgical Oncologist
MS (Gold Medalist), FIAGES, MCh Breast Oncoplasty (UK), Fellow Breast Surgery (Paris), Fellow Head & Neck Surgery, IFHNOS – MSKCC (New York)
Dr. Mansi Chowhan is an expert Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon with experience of more than 14 years and has been awarded with a gold medal during her surgical post-graduation. Dr. Mansi is well-trained from world renowned surgeons and cancer institutions like the Paris Breast Centre, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Centre (New York), University of East Anglia (U.K.) and Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai. She is a skilled surgeon with over 14 years of experience in some of the best hospitals in the Delhi- NCR region including Fortis Hospital, Artemis Hospital, Paras Hospital and Asian Institute of Medical Sciences, CK Birla Hospital. She works with utmost dedication and compassion to deliver international standard and personalized cancer care to the patients.
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