While nothing is ever guaranteed, prophylactic mastectomy can be a lifesaver for patients who are good candidates. For women at high risk for breast cancer, especially those with the BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation, a prophylactic mastectomy can reduce the chance of getting breast cancer by up to 95%.
What is Prophylactic Mastectomy?
Prophylactic (or preventative) mastectomy is performed to reduce a patient’s risk of breast cancer. The procedure removes most of the underlying breast tissue and typically leaves the skin envelop intact. Many prophylactic mastectomy patients are also able to save their nipples via nipple-sparing mastectomy. Patients who desire breast reconstruction are able to have both the mastectomy and reconstruction performed at the same time.
Is Prophylactic Mastectomy Guaranteed to Eliminate Breast Cancer Risk?
Nothing can give you a 100% guarantee that you will be cancer-free for the rest of your life. During a mastectomy, not every bit of breast tissue is removed. Some breast tissue can be found in your skin or your armpit or even above your collarbone or abdominal wall. As long as breast tissue remains, there is always a chance, low though it may be, of developing breast cancer. Patients must understand that the procedure dramatically reduces the chance of developing breast cancer but does not eliminate it.
Consult With a PRMA Surgeon
Having a preventative surgery should be very carefully considered, and you should enlist the help of qualified professionals to help you decide the best course of action. At PRMA Plastic Surgery, we empower our patients to learn all about their options. If you have any questions or concerns, please give us a call us at 800-692-5565 or complete our free virtual consultation form HERE.
Your health is in good hands when you trust PRMA. We have the top personnel and a long history of success in innovative and top-of-the-line procedures. Please take advantage of our two and a half decades of experience and let us help you on your journey to recovery.
It is a great honor to be part of a team with such a rich tradition of excellent patient care, shares Dr. Andrew Gassman, the newest surgeon to join the PRMA team. Years and years of procedure fine tuning with individualized care means our patients truly benefit from both efficiency and experience.
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