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The question is occasionally raised, "what is my risk of developing breast cancer after undergoing a bilateral or subcutaneous mastectomy"? Also, "what must I do to check my breasts for cancer after I have this surgery"?
It is important to understand that no breast operation can remove 100% of the breast tissue present. Even with a radical mastectomy, some breast cells will be left behind. In the bilateral mastectomy or subcutanous mastectomy performed upon FTM patients, more than a few cells will likely be left in the body. However the target organ for cancer, the breast, is so reduced in amount that the risk of developing a breast lesion, malignant or benign is essentially negligible. But not guaranteed. For this reason regular self examinations of the chest area are recommended. Obviously mammagrams are impractical. If a nodule or "bump" is noted under the skin, the patient should consult the surgeon or his own doctor for further evaluation. It is interesting to note that genetic males are rarely advised to perform these self examinations. That may be the reason that when male breast cancer is found, it is often at a later stage which is more difficult to treat. There is no reason to live with a fear of breast cancer as the risk is negligible. There is a reason to be responsible about one's own well being and perform these self examinations, much as one would perhaps have a regular physical examination by their physician. That is another method for evaluating the post operative chest for disease. I would be happy to discuss this matter with any of my patients. |