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VIDEO: Review indications for contralateral prophylactic mastectomy, complexity of procedure in discussions with patients
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The choice to undergo a contralateral prophylactic mastectomy is “a growing trend” in the United States, but the reasons to have the procedure — and the scope of what it involves — are not always fully understood by patients, according to Anne M. Wallace, MD, professor of surgery and director of the Comprehensive Breast Health Center at the University of California, San Diego.
Wallace reviews some of the “strong indications” for the procedure, such as a genetic predisposition to breast cancer, and the confusion about other factors that may lead patients to consider a contralateral prophylactic mastectomy, which she says is “fairly radical surgery.” It is the physician’s responsibility to assess the patient’s risk and explain all of the steps involved, including reconstruction, according to Wallace.
“If you and your doctor feel that you are risk-appropriate [for the procedure], then your doctor should very carefully outline the entire process. You should not leave a surgeon’s office thinking that removing both your breasts and doing reconstruction is going to be quick and easy,” Wallace said.