The Long Island Previvor: Beating Cancer Before It Has a Chance

The term “previvor” has gained popularity to describe individuals who are genetically predisposed to develop breast cancer and take proactive steps to reduce their risk and prevent a future cancer diagnosis. This concept has become more widespread in recent years because genetic testing has made it possible for women to know they are at risk before a cancer diagnosis is ever made. 

Improvements in genetic screening have redefined how at-risk individuals approach breast cancer screening and prevention. Women now have options like prophylactic mastectomy and immediate reconstruction, which means they can significantly reduce their risk of developing cancer while never having to know a life without their breasts. If you are at high risk of developing breast cancer, consulting with a plastic surgeon early in your decision-making can help you see all the available options and help you feel more confident in your future.

What is a Breast Cancer Previvor?

A breast cancer previvor is someone who has not had breast cancer but possesses a significantly increased genetic risk for developing it, often due to mutations in specific genes like BRCA1 and BRCA2. Women with these mutations face a higher lifetime risk of developing breast and ovarian cancers. 

For women who carry genetic mutations, healthcare providers can design personalized screening plans that include more frequent mammograms, ultrasounds, MRI scans, and clinical breast exams. These plans aim to detect cancer at the earliest, most treatable stages. However, some women experience high levels of “scanxiety,” where the process of getting scans so often and acknowledging the risk can cause extreme anxiety and disrupt their lives and mental health.

To take back control, an increasing number of women are choosing to declare themselves previvors and undergo a prophylactic mastectomy and reconstruction. A preventive mastectomy involves removing one (a contralateral mastectomy) or both breasts to significantly reduce the risk of developing breast cancer. While this may seem like a radical approach, preventative mastectomies can decrease the risk of future breast cancer diagnosis by up to 95% in high-risk women.

Options for Prophylactic Mastectomy and Breast Reconstruction

Getting a prophylactic mastectomy is a deeply personal decision. Consulting with a plastic surgeon early on in this journey can help women find out their best options for both the mastectomy and reconstruction procedures, giving them the best outcomes for their physical health and emotional well-being. There are two main types of preventative mastectomy procedures:

Following preventative mastectomy, most women choose to get a breast reconstruction. Breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure to restore the shape and appearance of the breast using implants or autologous tissue transfers. 

With so many reconstruction options available, it is important to consult with a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon who has mastered multiple techniques. Dr. Harris at Harris Plastic Surgery has a long history of empowering women, helping them evaluate their lifestyle and desired outcomes, enabling them to ultimately choose the reconstruction method that matches their unique goals.

Harris Plastic Surgery Can Help You With Your Previvor Journey

Through advancements in genetic testing and surgical techniques, breast cancer previvors can make informed choices about their health before they are faced with a disease diagnosis. Harris Plastic Surgery is here to help women take the proactive steps they need to prevent cancer and maintain their physical, mental, and emotional health.