In May, 2013, actress Angelina Jolie opened up about undergoing a double mastectomy as a precautionary measure against breast cancer. Although she had not yet been diagnosed, her doctors told her she had a high chance of receiving the diagnosis in the future. As she stated in the original New York Times article, she shared this personal story because she wanted women to know that they had options to fight the disease before it was able to attack their bodies.
A mastectomy, where the breast tissue is removed entirely from 1 or both breasts, is a common procedure to have before diagnosis. After a mastectomy, a breast reconstruction may be performed using breast implants to replace the lost tissue and create natural looking results.
I have had the opportunity to work with 2 women who took similar precautionary measures against the disease, with positive results. One patient, Victoria, was tested for the genetic mutations that can cause breast cancer after her father was diagnosed with the disease. After learning that she had both of the associated genetic mutations, she was determined to beat cancer “before it could beat her.” She received breast reconstruction after a double mastectomy, and is thrilled with her results. You can learn more about her story here.
Karen is another patient who sought breast augmentation after learning about a lump in her breast tissue during a mammogram. During the procedure, she also chose to receive a mommy makeover, which included a tummy tuck and liposuction. Click here to read her story.
It is important for patients to discuss their options with their doctor, oncologist, and board-certified plastic surgeon, just as Karen and Victoria did, so that doctors can work together to guide patients to the right treatments and results.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and to support the fight against the disease we are holding a special event at our practice. On October 22, we invite breast cancer survivors, patients, their family and friends, and anyone interested in learning more, to attend our “Ask the Experts” event. Held at our Louisville location from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 to p.m. in the evening, we will be discussing breast reconstruction options, answering questions, and offering support. If you have any questions about the event, please contact our office online or over the phone at (502) 899-9979.
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