With the improvement in screening and genetic testing options, women are finding out at much younger ages that they might have an increased risk of developing breast cancer. With this earlier awareness also comes a wave of women looking into prophylactic mastectomy options to prevent cancer before it can develop.
But what does this mean for women in their childbearing years who are also at risk of developing breast cancer? Does getting a prophylactic mastectomy affect their journey to motherhood? Or does pregnancy have an impact on mastectomy and reconstruction results? For women wondering about getting a preventative mastectomy and pregnancy, consulting with a plastic surgeon early on in the process can give them a better idea of what to expect long-term.
Considerations for Prophylactic Mastectomy and Pregnancy
If you are in the phase of life where you want to grow your family but are also at risk for breast cancer, there are some unique considerations that you will need to discuss with your healthcare providers before you make any treatment plans.
Additional Considerations for Preventative Mastectomy and Pregnancy | |
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Reasons for Preventative Mastectomy |
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Surgery Timing |
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Impact on Breastfeeding |
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Breast Reconstruction |
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Hormonal Effects |
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Women navigating the complexities of preventative mastectomy and pregnancy must weigh their options diligently as they decide what is best for them and their families.
Preventative Mastectomy and Pregnancy or Breastfeeding
One of the primary considerations for women thinking about getting a prophylactic mastectomy is the surgery timeline relative to pregnancy and childbirth. Some women may choose to undergo the procedure before becoming pregnant to mitigate the risk of developing cancer as early as possible, while others prefer to delay the surgery until after having children.
Undergoing a prophylactic mastectomy usually involves the removal of all breast tissue, including all ducts and glands, which means a woman will no longer have the ability to breastfeed from the affected breasts.
While there are more options now for feeding children than breast milk alone, women must consider the physical and psychological impacts of not being able to breastfeed future children compared to the risk of developing cancer in their children’s early years. If you plan to undergo a mastectomy before having children, you will need to consider alternative feeding options, like formula or donor milk.
For those who have always wanted to breastfeed their children, a delayed approach to surgery might be considered if your health allows. This way, you can postpone any mastectomy or reconstruction procedures until after your family is complete.
After mastectomy, many women choose to undergo breast reconstruction. While this decision can influence the aesthetic and psychological outcomes of the surgery, it does not restore the ability to breastfeed.
Potential for Breast Cancer Recurrence After Pregnancy Hormones
Pregnancy induces significant hormonal changes in the body, including increased levels of estrogen and progesterone. In women who have had breast cancer, there is a concern that these hormonal fluctuations could potentially stimulate the growth of any remaining cancerous cells.
While the risk of breast cancer recurrence during or after pregnancy is relatively low, it is a consideration for women who have previously had breast cancer and undergone a mastectomy before pregnancy. Although there is no direct link from pregnancy to an increased risk of recurrence for women who have undergone breast cancer treatment and are in remission, close monitoring and collaboration with healthcare providers is important to make sure the cancer does not return.
Contemplating Preventative Mastectomy & Pregnancy Timing? Contact Harris Plastic Surgery For a Consultation
Prophylactic mastectomy is a significant decision for women with a high risk of breast cancer and can offer you a substantial reduction in risk and peace of mind. However, for women eager to start or grow their families, this decision requires careful consideration about the timing, breastfeeding plans, and potential impact of pregnancy-related hormones on cancer recurrence. Partnering with a supportive and well-informed plastic surgeon like Dr. Harris can help alleviate your fears so you can make the best decisions for yourself and your future children.
Harris Plastic Surgery - Your Breast Reconstruction Experts
Harris Plastic Surgery is dedicated to total patient care to give you the best results for your current and future plans. Contact us online or by phone/text if you have questions about mastectomy and pregnancy or are ready to schedule your consultation today.
Stephen U. Harris, MD FACS
Dr. Stephen U. Harris is a board-certified cosmetic surgeon and recognized expert in breast reduction and reconstruction surgeries, having performed thousands in his career. When it comes to patient care, his philosophy is that every surgery should improve his patient’s overall quality of life, not just their appearance. Dr. Harris stays up-to-date on all the latest advancements in breast augmentation, reconstruction, and reduction and is a recognized innovator in the field. In fact, he was the first surgeon at Good Samaritan Hospital to offer primary prepectoral implant breast reconstruction, as well as secondary prepectoral revision surgery.
Dr. Harris also serves as Chief of Plastic Surgery at Good Samaritan Hospital in West Islip, New York and is an active staff surgeon (and former Chief of Plastic Surgery) at South Shore University Hospital in Bay Shore, New York.