Bedford Breast Center
436 N Bedford Dr, Ste 105
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Phone: (310) 278-8590
Monday – Friday: 9 a.m.– 5 p.m.
Prophylactic mastectomy, also known as preventive mastectomy, involves the removal of one or both breasts to reduce the risk of developing breast cancer if you’re at high risk. At Bedford Breast Center in Beverly Hills, we understand the difficult choices involved in considering prophylactic mastectomy. Our goal is to help educate and support our Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Glendale, and Malibu-area patients as they make these decisions.
The word “prophylactic” means “intended to prevent disease.” A prophylactic mastectomy is the preemptive surgical removal of the breast tissue to minimize breast cancer risk for women at high risk of developing the disease.
Women with a family history of breast cancer or specific genetic markers face a significantly higher risk. Other factors that may contribute to an increased risk include a history of cancer in one breast, a strong family history of breast or ovarian cancers, dense breast tissue, exposure to radiation therapy at an early age, and certain gene mutations.
Being identified as high risk for breast cancer doesn’t mean you will develop the disease, but it indicates that your risk is significantly higher than women with average risk. By understanding your risk level, you can better evaluate your options and make informed decisions.
Dr. Richardson and Dr. Memsic are two of the top breast surgeons in Los Angeles, using innovative techniques to create excellent clinical and aesthetic outcomes.
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Prophylactic mastectomy can be highly effective in reducing the risk of breast cancer, potentially decreasing breast cancer risk by up to 90% in women with a very high risk. The degree of risk reduction varies depending on individual factors, such as family history and genetic markers. For instance, individuals with a BRCA1 mutation and a first-degree relative with breast cancer may face a 55-65% risk of developing breast cancer by age 70. However, this risk decreases to as low as 5% after undergoing prophylactic mastectomy. However, it is important to note that while the procedure significantly reduces the risk, prophylactic mastectomy cannot eliminate the possibility of developing breast cancer.
Alternatives to prophylactic mastectomy include lifetime surveillance involving periodic mammograms, physical exams, and ultrasounds, with immediate treatment if abnormalities are detected. Anti-hormone therapy medications such as tamoxifen can decrease the risk of breast cancer by nearly 50% in high-risk patients, but the potential side effects should be considered.
Additional alternatives include combining MRIs with mammograms for enhanced detection, prophylactic removal of the ovaries to decrease the risk of breast and ovarian cancer, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle through weight management, regular exercise, limited alcohol consumption, and avoiding hormone therapy during menopause.
“I am one week post-op from my preventative double mastectomy with Dr. Richardson and I couldn’t be any happier! Who would have thought that I would have BETTER boobs after a mastectomy? Well, Dr. Richardson and Dr. Cassileth gave me perfect breasts. Undergoing a double mastectomy is no easy journey- but Dr. Richardson was there the whole way cheering me along and guiding me. I love her! They have an amazing team (shout out to Nora!) – they are so kind and you feel so welcome and safe there. If you are thinking about having a double mastectomy – I without a doubt would recommend Dr. Richardson. I can’t express how amazing she is and how happy I am. I feel beautiful and whole again.”
Sara A. – Yelp
Prophylactic mastectomy options may include a simple mastectomy, a modified radical mastectomy, a skin-sparing or nipple-sparing mastectomy, or breast-conserving surgery.
Surgical techniques vary depending on whether concurrent breast reconstruction is desired and the chosen reconstruction technique. Prophylactic mastectomy is performed under general anesthesia.
Our surgeons perform mastectomy through a small incision along the inframammary fold beneath the breast. The breast tissue is then carefully removed while preserving the chest wall muscles. The blood vessels and lymphatic vessels supplying the breast tissue are identified and ligated. In a prophylactic mastectomy, the nipple is not typically removed but may be repositioned on the breast mound.
Small drains may be placed in each breast to remove fluid for several days. The incisions are closed with sutures, which may dissolve on their own or be removed at the first postoperative visit.
“The experience of my first appointment was a game changer — BRCA patients who have dealt with brash or pushy doctors know how sensitive and scary new appointments can be. Dr. Richardson was SO nice from the get go. I had always wanted to do a preventative mastectomy and reconstruction, and Dr. Richardson helped explain their one-stage process (I didn’t even know it was a possibility!) in a way that made sense. She referred me to Dr. Killeen, next door at Cassileth Plastic Surgery, and I ultimately chose them as my team, doing the surgery just a couple of months later.”
Kelli L. – Yelp
It is normal to experience some pain; it is usually at its most intense within 24 to 48 hours after surgery. Pain medication can help manage discomfort, which gradually improves within a few days. Some patients may experience a dull ache in the chest wall for up to 6 weeks following the procedure.
Surgical drains are removed a few days after surgery, depending on the amount of fluid collected. Your health care team will provide specific instructions on drain care. Showers are usually permitted 48 hours after drain removal or as your doctor advises.
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Keep in mind that each patient is unique and your results may vary.
The breast surgeons at Bedford Breast Center in Beverly Hills are innovative physicians who provide compassionate, personalized patient care. Our world-class facility serves patients from throughout Los Angeles, Southern California, and nationwide. To learn more about our center and if prophylactic mastectomy is the right option for you, call us at (310) 278-8590 or contact us using the online form to schedule an appointment.
