Breast Reconstruction following Mastectomy
Prophylactic mastectomy
Prophylactic mastectomy involves the preventive removal of the breast to reduce the risk of developing breast cancer.
Preservation Techniques and Risk Reduction
Nipple-sparing mastectomy preserves the nipple-areola complex and breast skin, particularly beneficial for cosmetic outcomes.
Prophylactic bilateral mastectomy has the potential to reduce the risk of breast cancer by up to 100%, especially in cases of a strong family history of breast cancer or BRCA genetic mutations.
When is prophylactic mastectomy bilateral?
Prophylactic mastectomy may be bilateral in healthy women at high risk of breast cancer. Alternatively, it can be unilateral, alongside therapeutic mastectomy in the contralateral breast.
How is reconstruction typically performed after mastectomy?
In prophylactic mastectomy, reconstruction often occurs in the same operation, preserving the areola and nipple for a comprehensive aesthetic outcome.