More Women Opt for Double Mastectomy

More women than ever are choosing to undergo bilateral mastectomies (both breasts removed) when discovering a diagnosis of breast cancer.  Last year, nearly 15% of newly diagnosed patient with breast cancer, around 30,000 yearly, chose to have both breasts removed. This is up from only 3% in the 1990's.
Why the increasing trend? Several reasons likely account for this:  There is more awareness of breast cancer and women are fearful of developing the disease and "just don't want to have to worry about the other breast."  Also, with the improvement in breast reconstruction and the approval of silicone tear-drop shaped implants, more women are comfortable with the cosmetic outcome after their surgery is complete. In fact, some women without current breast cancer, but with high risk of developing the disease in the future, are electing to undergo bilateral nipple sparing prophylactic mastectomies to ease their fears while keeping perky reconstructed breasts instead.
Women need to understand their choices, see a genetic counselor, and speak with a board certified plastic surgeon who can help them make a wise decision. We are happy to discuss all the options with you and your family. Give us a call and schedule an appointment.  Read more about breast reconstruction on our website.