Reconstructive Surgery Following Mastectomy

Like many women who have mastectomy, for prevention or treatment of breast cancer, Jolie decided to have her chest area reconstructed, so that she had the appearance of breasts again.  This can be done at the same time as the mastectomy, but Jolie opted to wait a couple of months before reconstruction.  Dr. Kristi Funk who treated Jolie at the Pink Lotus Breast Center in Beverly Hills, USA explained that this delay produces better cosmetic results. 

In Jolie’s procedure they preserved her nipple tissue, having checked in an earlier procedure that it was free of cancer.  She had her own breast tissue removed through incisions under the breast.  During reconstruction she had teardrop-shaped breast implants inserted, which were supported by special tissue slings, for a natural appearance.

Assessing your own risk

With breast cancer now being such a common disease, many women are worried about developing it.  Breast cancer screening programs operate in a number of countries and it is advised that women over 50 have regular mammograms, as the scans are called.  While breast cancer most commonly develops in women over this age, increasing numbers of young women are being affected. Having faulty BRCA genes increases the chance of developing breast cancer below the age of 50.

 So it is important for all women to look out for warning signs.

It is a wise precaution for all women to check their breasts regularly (at least monthly) and be familiar with their size shape, weight and appearance, so that you will readily pick up on changes. (See Links below for breast self-examination instructions if you are unsure how to carry this out).

Familial or genetic risk

It is estimated that only 5-10% of cancers are actually caused by a faulty gene or inherited risk, but if you are worried that you may be at risk, you could look at an online assessment tool called OPERA, by the British cancer support charity Macmillan (see Links below).  This assesses risk based on your personal and family history of cancer and only involves 9 quick questions.  (Don’t be surprised that you will be asked about male relatives with breast cancer, as although less common, it does occur in men).

If you feel you are at high risk for breast cancer, you should speak to your doctor, who could refer you for genetic testing, as happened with Jolie.