Indications for the procedure:
- carriers of the gene causing a significantly increased risk of breast cancer.
What does prophylactic mastectomy involve?
Before the surgery:
A consultation with the oncological surgeon and plastic surgeon is recommended, during which the doctors establish the optimal course of action, answer all the patient's questions, and discuss the procedure details. The patient should bring a current breast ultrasound and previous test results relating to the condition, including results of genetic testing for breast cancer predisposition. Before the procedure itself a series of tests must be completed including an ECG (for patients over 40 years of age). Additionally, for a minimum of 10 days before the procedure blood-thinning agents (e.g. aspirin) must not be taken, and the procedure date should not be scheduled just before menstruation.
General nutritional recommendations before the procedure:
To better prepare for the procedure it is also worth following nutritional recommendations. The diet before the procedure must not be restrictive, as protein deficiency impairs healing of postoperative wounds. However, certain modifications are worthwhile. The diet should be easily digestible and fatty, bloating products should be eliminated. Smoking and alcohol should be stopped. It is worth paying attention to preparations that may cause excessive bleeding, e.g. preparations containing vitamin E, ginkofar, and medications containing acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin and its derivatives). Also chilli, cayenne, garlic, ginger, saffron, onion, celery, and horseradish may increase the risk of bleeding.
Type of anesthesia:
General anesthesia.
Duration of the surgery:
From 3 to 5 hours.
Course of the surgery:
The mammary gland is removed while preserving the skin. A pocket is created beneath the chest wall muscles into which a tissue expander or expander-prosthesis is introduced. Optionally, in a subsequent procedure, it is possible if needed to improve the shape or volume of the breast by transplanting adipose tissue harvested from another site.
Hospital stay:
1 day.
Postoperative recommendations:
A restful lifestyle. Wearing a dressing. Check-up appointments no less than once a week, more frequently in the first 2 weeks. Use of scar ointments and dressings.
Recovery time:
From 3 to 4 weeks.
General nutritional recommendations after the procedure:
The diet after surgery is extremely important, and proper balance ensures supply of nutrients essential for correct wound healing. Meals should be prepared so that they are easily digestible and nutrients well absorbed. The daily menu must include products that are sources of high-quality protein. Zinc, iron, and vitamins also play an important role in the recovery process and adequate intake in the diet should be ensured. Consumption of fibre-rich products prevents constipation that may occur after surgery. Products such as chocolate, tea, coffee, sweets, and starchy foods should also be avoided as they slow intestinal motility.
