Preventive (prophylactic) mastectomy: Surgery to reduce breast cancer risk
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Who may consider prophylactic mastectomy to reduce breast cancer risk?
With whom should women at high risk discuss their options?
How much does prophylactic mastectomy reduce the risk of breast cancer?
What are the risks?
Are there other options for reducing the risk of breast cancer?
With whom should high-risk women discuss their options?
Deciding what to do with the knowledge that you are at high risk of breast cancer is a complex and time-consuming process. It's best if you can work with a team of health professionals to get a complete evaluation of your risk and take the time to understand all of your options.
Many breast centers are staffed with breast-health specialists, genetic counselors, breast surgeons and reconstructive surgeons who can collaborate with you. Second opinions are strongly recommended for women considering prophylactic mastectomy.
Making the decision whether to have prophylactic mastectomy is not urgent. Give yourself time to weigh all the pros and cons. You may want to discuss your concerns and feelings with a breast-health specialist and psychologist.
