Prophylactic Mastectomy - is it right for you?

Having prophylactic mastectomy is a very personal choice. There is no "right answer", only what you consider is best for you. Women who are at high risk of developing breast cancer have the option of prophylactic (preventive) mastectomy as a way of decreasing their risk. Factors that increase a woman’s chance of developing breast cancer include: a genetic predisposition to breast cancer e.g. BRCA+, Cowden's Syndrome, Li-Fraumeni Syndrome a strong family history of breast cancer a breast cancer diagnosis at a young age abnormal breast cells on biopsy that increase the risk of breast cancer, e.g. LCIS a history of previous chest radiation, e.g. treatment for Hodgkin's Lymphoma Prophylactic mastectomy decreases the risk of future breast cancer by 97-99%. Since the breast tissue is removed, the surgery also removes the need for regular screening mammograms/MRIs and preventive drugs like tamoxifen. Surgery is not the only option however. Many women prefer close monitoring and preventive drugs (known as "chemoprophylaxis"). Regardless of other choices, all women should modify their diet wherever possible to decrease their risk. It is vital you discuss all your options and the pros, cons, and risks of each before making the best decision for you. If you choose prophylactic surgery please remember that you can also have breast reconstruction at the same time as mastectomy. There is no need to experience having a flat chest unless you specifically decide you wish to remain wit...
Source: Breast Cancer Reconstruction Blog - Category: Cancer Tags: chemoprophylaxis preventive mastectomy tamoxifen breast reconstruction cowden's syndrome li-fraumeni syndrome nipple-sparing mastectomy prophylactic mastectomy BRCA Source Type: blogs