Q. Why might someone need a mastectomy?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
There are several reasons why someone might need a mastectomy. The most common reason is to treat or prevent breast cancer, but there are other medical and personal reasons as well. Here are some of the primary indications for a mastectomy:
1. Breast Cancer Treatment: Mastectomy is often recommended to treat breast cancer. It may be the preferred option when the cancer is large, located in multiple areas of the breast, or when there's a high risk of cancer returning after a lumpectomy or other treatments.
2. Risk Reduction: Some individuals with a high risk of developing breast cancer, typically due to a strong family history or genetic mutations like BRCA1 or BRCA2, may choose to undergo a preventive or prophylactic mastectomy to reduce their risk.
3. Failed Conservative Treatment: In cases where conservative treatments such as lumpectomy (removal of the tumor and surrounding tissue) are not effective or have a high likelihood of cancer recurrence, a mastectomy may be recommended.
4. Inflammatory Breast Cancer: This aggressive form of breast cancer often necessitates a mastectomy as part of the treatment plan.
5. Extensive Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS): When DCIS, a non-invasive breast cancer, is extensive and involves a large portion of the breast, a mastectomy may be recommended.
6. Reconstruction Preference: Some individuals with breast cancer choose mastectomy to allow for breast reconstruction, either immediately or at a later time, to restore the breast's appearance.
7. Cosmetic or Personal Choice: In rare cases, people may opt for mastectomy for cosmetic reasons or personal preference. This is known as elective or cosmetic mastectomy and is not typically medically indicated.
It's essential to note that the decision to undergo a mastectomy is highly individual and depends on the specific circumstances and preferences of the patient, as well as the recommendations of their healthcare team. Before undergoing a mastectomy, patients typically discuss their options with their healthcare providers, including the type of mastectomy and whether breast reconstruction is desired.