PROPHYLACTIC MASTECTOMY

Many surgeons are concerned with the increasing trend among women to request removal of their other “normal” breast after undergoing a mastectomy.

Many women voice concerns about developing cancer in the “other” normal breast. Why is this?

There are several reasons. One – fear of recurrence. Two – new technology such as MRI can pick up miniscule lesions not seen on normal mammograms. Third – many women are getting genetic testing to see if they carry BRCA-1 and BRCA-2, genes associated with an increased cancer risk.

Even after a “double mastectomy” the risk of breast cancer is reduced by 90% - NOT 100%. Tumors can still grow back in scar tissue or under the arm where extra breast tissue may be located.

Careful planning with your surgeon trumps decision making out of fear. Dr. Brueck offers general guidance on his Fort Myers Plastic surgeon web site. You are invited to visit.