What is a preventative double mastectomy?

This risk-reducing operation may be discussed when inherited risk, a strong family pattern or certain previous breast findings make future breast cancer more concerning. It lowers risk but does not remove every breast or chest tissue cell, so follow-up remains relevant. The decision is personal and should reflect your medical history, body image, feelings about surgery and future plans.

Options may include removal of breast tissue with different approaches to the skin or nipple, depending on safety and anatomy. Reconstruction can be performed at the same operation or later, or you may choose not to reconstruct. A lumpectomy is a different operation and is generally considered in different clinical circumstances.

Request a consultation with a breast surgeon and, when inherited risk is possible, a genetics professional. Ask for a clear explanation of your estimated risk, alternatives such as enhanced surveillance, and what each surgical approach changes. Discuss reconstruction with a plastic surgeon if it matters to you, including implants, tissue-based options, staged procedures and expected sensation.

Before surgery, review medicines, smoking, wound care, arm movement, drains, time away from work and emotional support. If cancer is already present, treatment may involve other steps, including chemotherapy before surgery, rather than a preventive operation alone.

After surgery, contact your team promptly for fever, increasing redness, worsening pain, fluid leaking from the wound, wound separation, sudden swelling, or a new shortness of breath. Seek emergency help for severe breathing difficulty, chest pain or fainting. Arm heaviness or swelling can need assessment for lymphoedema.

Ask: Why is this operation being recommended for me? What is my alternative screening plan? Which tissues will be removed? What reconstruction choices fit my body? How could surgery affect sensation, movement and future imaging?