This week, James E. Craigie, MD, of The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction answers your question.

Question: I am 60. I have had a core bio in right breast, and my maternal aunt had breast cancer. My left breast is became two sizes bigger than right, and I have fibefib. Cystic diseases. Last year my mamo showed no cancer, but I am about a 36 c in right breast and 38c in left. It’s painful. Should I be proactive and have both removed since already in right? I have had a core bio for two lumps showed benign. Thanks

Answer: Thanks for your question. Women who are at an increased risk for breast cancer and/or who have difficult breasts to screen for breast cancer do sometimes consider preventive mastectomies. Certainly not every woman in your situation would do that. In order for you to make a decision you should discuss your specific situation with a breast surgical oncologist. They could give you more specifics about your risks. Other considerations are quality of life issues. Having to undergo frequent biopsies or repeat imaging are all reasons some of our patients tell us they have preventive mastectomies. Finally, the options for breast reconstruction available to you can make a difference to you in your decision. We can give you more specifics about those options if you like. We have all our patients discuss their risks with one of the breast oncologist and geneticists we work with. Let me know if I can help in any way.

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