Prophylactic mastectomy is usually performed in cases where the genetic test is positive and the likelihood of developing breast cancer is high.
At a glance
Prophylactic mastectomy is usually performed in cases where the genetic test is positive and the likelihood of developing breast cancer is high.
Severity
Medium
Type of Anaesthetic
General
Clinic Stay
2 Nights
Stitch removal
No
Recovery
6 - 10 weeks
Prophylactic mastectomy cost
If you wish to be informed about the prices of prophylactic mastectomy in Thessaloniki, you can fill out the contact form below and we will contact you as soon as possible.
The term prophylactic mastectomy (preventive mastectomy) refers to a breast plastic surgery procedure that involves removing the breast gland preventively, before the development of breast cancer. This is usually accompanied by immediate reconstruction by the plastic surgeon to ensure a result that is harmonious with the rest of the body and looks completely natural. This approach has become very popular in recent years, mainly because genetic screening now makes it possible to identify women belonging to high-risk groups.
This technique became even more widely known to the general public following the announcement of Angelina Jolie’s case. The well-known Hollywood actress underwent a bilateral prophylactic mastectomy with immediate reconstruction.
Discover your new image safely
With FaceTouchUp, you can see for free how your body will look after prophylactic mastectomy simply by uploading a photo. Explore the before-and-after easily and quickly, before you make any decision.
When is preventive or prophylactic mastectomy necessary?
It has been found that there are specific mutations in genetic material that are hereditary and can lead to certain forms of cancer. Such genes include BRCA1 and BRCA2 (Breast Cancer), and more rarely PALB and BRD7. The first two are associated with a significantly increased likelihood of developing breast and ovarian cancer compared to women who do not carry these genes. If the test is positive, prophylactic mastectomy with immediate reconstruction is recommended.
Women with a strong family history are also recommended to undergo prophylactic mastectomy after childbirth, even when the gene is negative. Finally, in cases of proven cancer phobia, the operation can be performed.
Immediate reconstruction and safety. Suitable for BRCA-positive women.
Techniques in a prophylactic mastectomy
During prophylactic mastectomy, just like in other breast procedures, the surgical planning is based on achieving the best aesthetic result while always adhering to oncological criteria. The decision to preserve the nipple or not is made following discussion, but also based on the anatomical characteristics of each breast. The incision is made either under the breast or near the nipple, although technique variations may be necessary to correct issues such as excessive sagging or very large breasts. Through these incisions, the entire breast gland is removed and sent for histological examination.
Then, the appropriate silicone implant is selected, depending on the breast size and the desired result from a breast augmentation. The implant is placed under the pectoralis major muscle to ensure better coverage. In some cases, the use of supportive materials such as meshes or xenogeneic materials is necessary, in order to provide better support for the implant in the lower pole.
After preventive mastectomy
Drains are usually removed the following day, and the hospital stay lasts 1–2 days. When the nipple is preserved, the aesthetic result is immediate. If the nipple needs to be removed, its reconstruction is performed at a later stage, usually 3–6 months later, ensuring a complete and natural final outcome.
"A few years ago, I was diagnosed positive for the BRCA gene. I eventually decided to undergo a prophylactic mastectomy. From the very first moment, I felt the safety I was seeking for such a procedure."
Results of prophylactic mastectomy
Dr. Prodromos Papaioannou
He completed his plastic surgery specialization in Germany, at the Pirmasens Hospital, the Asklepios Wandsbek Hospitals in Hamburg, the University Hospital in Magdeburg and the Braunschweig Clinic. He worked as a specialist-deputy director at the Braunschweig Clinic (specializing in breast reconstruction after cancer and cosmetic surgery). He also participated in scientific research and completed his doctoral thesis (Dr. Med.) at the Magdeburg Clinic.