GET OFFER

Overview

Prophylactic mastectomy is the surgical removal of breast tissue to prevent cancer in women who have a high risk of developing breast cancer. This procedure is generally recommended for women who have genetic mutations such as BRCA1 or BRCA2, or who have a family history of breast cancer. This procedure is also known as the Angelina Jolie surgery. This famous artist underwent this surgery before developing cancer because she carried the breast cancer gene, and the awareness of the procedure increased afterward. Prophylactic mastectomy significantly reduces the risk of breast cancer, but it does not eliminate it completely.

Procedure Details

• Procedure: Prophylactic Mastectomy – The specific procedure may vary (total mastectomy, skin-sparing mastectomy, nipple-sparing mastectomy, etc.)
• Duration: 2-4 hours (depending on the procedure and the amount of tissue removed)
• Anesthesia: General anesthesia
• Location: Atlas University Hospital – Istanbul
• Possible Side Effects: Pain, swelling, bleeding, infection, limited arm movement (temporary), loss of sensation in the breast area.
• Recovery Time: Varies depending on the type of surgery and the person’s overall health, usually a few weeks to a few months.
• Expected Outcomes: Significant reduction in the risk of developing breast cancer, psychological relief, improved quality of life.

Daily Plan

• Day 1:
  • Arrival in Istanbul and transfer to the hospital.
  • Pre-operative consultation and detailed examination with your surgeon.
  • Evaluation of breast tissue with imaging methods such as mammography, ultrasonography, MRI.
  • Review of genetic test results and family history.
  • Surgical planning and discussion of expectations.
• Day 2:
  • Prophylactic mastectomy surgery and, if necessary, surgical examination of the armpit (SLNB).
  • Post-operative pain control and drain monitoring.
  • Hospital stay is usually 1-2 days.
• Day 3:
  • Post-operative check-up by the surgeon.
  • Changing of dressings.
  • Starting arm exercises.
  • Discharge from the hospital and transfer to the hotel.
• Day 4-5:
  • Rest at the hotel.
  • Continue arm exercises.
  • Gradual return to daily activities according to your doctor’s recommendations. Receiving pathology results and evaluation by the oncology department.
  • Drain monitoring may be longer.
• Day 6:
  • Return to your country.

Post-Operative Care

• Use antibiotics and pain medications as recommended by your doctor.
• Do arm exercises regularly.
• Dress the surgical area as instructed, keep it clean and dry.
• Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities.
• Follow your doctor’s instructions and schedule a follow-up appointment with a local doctor after returning to your country.

FAQ

• Q: Is prophylactic mastectomy surgery painful?
  • A: Post-operative pain is expected, but it can be managed with pain medications.
• Q: Can breast reconstruction be performed after prophylactic mastectomy?
  • A: Yes, breast reconstruction can be performed at the same time as prophylactic mastectomy or at a later date.
• Q: What are the risks of prophylactic mastectomy surgery?
  • A: There are risks such as bleeding, infection, loss of sensation, and lymphedema (arm swelling). Your doctor will explain the risks in detail.
• Q: Who is suitable for prophylactic mastectomy surgery?
  • A: Women at high risk of developing breast cancer, especially those with a genetic predisposition such as BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene carriers, or those with a family history of breast cancer, may be suitable candidates for prophylactic mastectomy. Your doctor will evaluate your risk factors and overall health to determine if it is right for you.