Ask the Doctor: QA’s
Q: I have a history of benign proliferative breast disease with associated atypical ductal
hyperplasia. I have had two needle biopsies and three surgical biopsies in my left breast. I took
Tamoxifen for five years and currently am taking Evista. Last year I completed the Myriad My
Risk Test resulting in a 37.9% remaining lifetime breast cancer risk. My monitoring plan since
2006 has been alternating diagnostic mammogram and breast MRI.
My most recent MRI located an enhancing nodule in my right breast. My oncologist has referred
me to a local surgeon to begin the process for prophylactic double mastectomy. I am interested
in natural breast reconstruction. I would like to schedule an appointment to discuss my options
with your plastic surgeons. I also will need to set up an appointment with the surgeon you use
for the actual mastectomy. I am not sure which appointment should be first.
A: Hi Stacy,
Thank you for contacting us. I am sorry you are having to make very difficult decisions in order
to prevent getting breast cancer. I commend you for being very vigilant with screening. As you
are aware screening alone won’t prevent breast cancer unless you act on the results of the tests
that indicate your risk is high.
Many women would consider preventive mastectomy in your situation. For many women
knowing that they can have immediate natural breast reconstruction for a permanent natural
result makes the decision a little easier to make. If you feel like you have any amount of extra
fatty tissue anywhere on your body then chances are you can use your own natural tissue. I’ll be
glad to answer any other specific questions just let me know.
James Craigie MD
