Preventive (Prophylactic) Mastectomy Surgery

Preventive Mastectomy Surgery is an Option for Patients Who Are High Risk for Developing Breast Cancer

Angelina Jolie’s proactive double prophylactic mastectomy brought to the forefront a tough decision that more and more women in Destin, FL; Dothan, AL; Valdosta and Thomasville, GA; and surrounding areas are considering. According to a report in the journal Current Oncology Reports, the incidence of prophylactic mastectomy doubled between 1998 and 2005.

If you are considering a mastectomy, it is important to select a board-certified plastic surgeon with experience in breast reconstruction, like the plastic surgeons at Southeastern Plastic Surgery in Tallahassee, FL, to perform this life-altering surgery and ensure you achieve the best possible outcome.

What Is a Prophylactic Mastectomy?

A prophylactic mastectomy is the surgical removal of one or both breasts to reduce the risk of developing breast cancer. Often the decision to take this step is preceded by one or more factors including:

  • A family history of breast cancer such as a mother, sister or daughter who experienced breast cancer especially before the age of 50.
  • A personal history of breast cancer making an individual more likely to develop breast cancer in the opposite breast.
  • A positive test for BRCA1, BRCA2 or PALB2 gene mutations, which increases the risk of breast cancer.
  • Radiation therapy on the chest prior to age 30.
  • Dense breasts or tiny deposits of calcium in the breast tissue.
  • A diagnosis of lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS), which has been shown to increase the chances of developing breast cancer.

Most women want immediate breast reconstruction following the surgery and others prefer to wait for reconstruction.

Our Doctors

Meet Our Physicians

Our skilled physicans understand the profound difference even a small change on the outside can make on the inside. They are dedicated to providing high-quality care in a supportive, compassionate setting.

Ben J. Kirbo, M.D.
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Laurence Z. Rosenberg, M.D.
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Chris DeRosier, M.D.
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
doctor certifications

What Are the Options for a Mastectomy Procedure?

Individuals can choose to have total or nipple sparing mastectomy.

Total Mastectomy

A total mastectomy removes the nipple, the areola, and the breast tissue are removed. It does not include removal of lymph nodes or muscles.

Nipple Sparing Mastectomy

A nipple sparing mastectomy includes removal of all the breast tissue but the nipple and areola are left alone.

What Are the Risks?

As with any surgery, there are risks. The surgery is permanent and not reversible. In addition, the surgery causes significant loss of sensation in the breast. Some women experience anxiety or depression about their body image. While prophylactic mastectomy may reduce the risks of developing breast cancer by about 90 percent, it doesn’t guarantee that breast cancer will never happen.

If you are considering prophylactic mastectomy, or any other cosmetic surgery procedure, contact Drs. Kirbo, Rosenberg or DeRosier to schedule a consultation so that all options can be discussed.

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