With the improvements in early screening technology and information, many women are able to consider getting a prophylactic mastectomy, the surgical removal of one or both breasts, to reduce the risk of breast cancer. The decision to undergo a prophylactic mastectomy is deeply personal and complex and can affect women on a mental, emotional, and physical level.
While the sense of relief over not having to worry about developing breast cancer can be very strong for many women, there are several psychological effects of prophylactic mastectomy to consider before you make your decisions.
Positive Psychological Effects of Prophylactic Mastectomy
For many women, the threat of breast cancer looms large, particularly for those with a family history or genetic mutations like BRCA1 or BRCA2. The anxiety associated with the potential development of breast cancer can be overwhelming, leading some to feel as though they are living in a constant state of worry and concern.
Prophylactic mastectomy offers a sense of relief for these women by significantly reducing the risk of developing cancer anytime in the future. We’ve been told by many patients that reduced anxiety was the most compelling psychological benefit of choosing a prophylactic mastectomy.
In a phase of life where cancer can often feel like a complete loss of control, the ability to make a proactive decision can bolster women’s mental well-being, providing them with a sense of agency and autonomy over their healthcare options.
Psychological Effects of Prophylactic Mastectomy | |
|---|---|
Positive Psychological Effects | Negative Psychological Effects |
Reduced Anxiety: Significantly lowers the fear of developing breast cancer, providing peace of mind. | Body Image Issues: Loss of natural breasts can lead to feelings of grief, loss, and a negative self-image. |
Sense of Control: Empowers women by allowing them to take proactive steps and manage their own health. | Identity Concerns: Some women may struggle with the change in their physical appearance affecting their sense of femininity. |
Autonomy: Provides a sense of agency in making major health decisions and takes control away from the cancer or possible diagnosis. | Depression/Anxiety: Adjusting to the permanent body change and fragility of their health can lead to emotional distress or mental health challenges. |
Reconstruction Customization: The opportunity to choose the size, shape, and appearance of your newly reconstructed breasts. | Sexual Identity: Removing breasts, even with reconstruction, can alter sexual self-esteem and intimate relationships. |
Long-Term Peace of Mind: Eliminates the need for ongoing surveillance and the constant worry of developing breast cancer. | Permanent Change: Knowledge that you are at risk of developing cancer and will never have your natural breasts again can be difficult to accept. |
One of the unique psychological effects of prophylactic mastectomy is the opportunity for a completely personalized breast reconstruction. Modern surgical techniques offer a range of options, allowing women to choose the size, shape, and overall appearance of their new breasts.
This customization can be a source of positive body image reinforcement. Some women view this as an opportunity to redefine their femininity on their terms, embracing the chance to reconstruct their bodies in a way that aligns with their desires and self-image.
The Psychological Challenges of Prophylactic Mastectomy
Despite these benefits, the decision to undergo a prophylactic mastectomy is not without its psychological challenges. As seen in the table above, the most significant of these challenges is the impact on body image.
For many women, their breasts are an integral part of their femininity and identity. The loss of natural breasts can lead to feelings of grief and mourning as women come to terms with the permanent alteration of their bodies.
Even with reconstruction, some women may struggle with the reality that their new breasts, while aesthetically pleasing, are not their own. This internal conflict can lead to issues with self-esteem and may affect a woman’s sexual
identity and her intimate relationships as she learns to navigate life in her newly altered body.
Harris Plastic Surgery – Your Expert Prophylactic Mastectomy Coordinating Team
The decision to undergo a prophylactic mastectomy is a deeply personal one with far-reaching psychological effects. Ultimately, the psychological impact of prophylactic mastectomy varies from woman to woman and is influenced by individual values, support systems, and coping mechanisms.
One way to ensure the best possible outcomes for your health and mental well-being is to start your decision-making process by consulting with a plastic surgeon who has decades of experience helping women make the prophylactic mastectomy choices that will give them the highest level of satisfaction.
Having a great team in place will help you feel more confident in your decisions and empower you to make the choices that feel the most comfortable for your health and lifestyle needs. With the right support, many women find peace and empowerment in their choice to undergo a prophylactic mastectomy despite the concerns it may initially bring.
Harris Plastic Surgery - Your Breast Reconstruction Experts
Harris Plastic Surgery is dedicated to empowering women and helping them address the psychological effects of prophylactic mastectomy. Contact us online or by phone/text if you have any questions, or 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.