Prophylactic mastectomy
What is a prophylactic mastectomy?
A prophylactic mastectomy is the surgical removal of one or both breasts to reduce the risk of breast cancer. It is a preventive procedure that is most often considered in women with a high genetic risk or family history of breast cancer. A prophylactic mastectomy can significantly reduce the risk of the disease, although it does not eliminate it completely.
A prophylactic mastectomy significantly reduces the risk of breast cancer – by up to 80%. However, regular check-ups are still necessary as the risk, although significantly reduced, is not completely eliminated.
Prophylactic mastectomy is a serious step that requires careful consideration and consultation with the medical team. Every patient should have full support and access to all the information needed to make an informed decision.
Indications for prophylactic mastectomy include:
- Carrying mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, which significantly increase the risk of breast cancer.
- High family risk – presence of multiple cases of breast cancer in the family.
- Personal burden – a previous history of breast cancer in one breast, which increases the risk of cancer in the other breast.
- Increased cancerophobia.
How does the prophylactic mastectomy procedure work?
The prophylactic mastectomy procedure is performed under general anaesthesia and can take several hours. There are various techniques for performing mastectomies, including:
- Mastectomy with skin preservation – removal of breast tissue while preserving the skin of the breast.
- Mastectomy with nipple preservation – removal of breast tissue while preserving the skin and nipple.
Once the breast tissue has been removed, the surgeon can immediately carry out breast reconstruction, using implants or the patient’s own tissues.
Recovery after surgery
Recovery from prophylactic mastectomy depends on individual factors such as the patient’s health status and the extent of the surgery. The patient can expect:
- Several days of hospitalisation after surgery.
- A period of convalescence lasting several weeks to several months.
- The possibility of pain and discomfort that can be relieved with painkillers.
- The need to wear a special support bra after surgery.