An article in the New York Times discusses the pros and cons of reconstruction options that are used after mastectomy. The article and the comments on it are a must-read for anyone considering prophylactic mastectomy.
It is very important for a woman considering prophylactic mastectomy to take her time and speak to all of her physicians about it. She needs advice not only from a cosmetic surgeon, but also from her breast surgeon and general practitioner in order to understand her true risk for breast cancer as well as the potential for long-term difficulties from reconstructive surgery. Having both breasts removed lowers the risk of getting breast cancer by 90%, but does not eliminate it. Each type of reconstruction has drawbacks that must be considered.
Whether a woman is getting a mastectomy as treatment for breast cancer or is having a prophylactic mastectomy in the hopes of preventing breast cancer, a second opinion from another cosmetic surgeon is a good idea. As the article points out, doctors may suggest one type of reconstruction over another because they are not skilled in other types, or they have a preference for a certain procedure. This may have more to do with the level of compensation for this particular procedure rather than with the well-being of the patient.
The National Institutes of Health has a list of designated cancer centers that is an excellent resource for finding a doctor for a second opinion.
Tags: breast cancer, breast cancer gene, DCIS, ductal carcinoma in situ, health, LCIS, lobular carcinoma in situ, mastectomy, prophylactic mastectomy, second opinion
