Ask an Expert is a free question-and-answer service about breast cancer and breast health that is available on weekends. If you'd like to ask a question or comment, please visit us again on Saturday or Sunday. In the meantime, please search the existing topics using the search tool at the top of the page. It's quite possible that one of our many existing topics already addresses your question.
If you would like a consultation with a breast specialist at the Johns Hopkins Avon Foundation Breast Center, call 443-778-2778. It is possible to get an appointment for a second opinion within a few days of contacting us.
We hope you find the information helpful!
| Forum | Questions | Ask a Question | |
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Concerns about Breast Cancer Family History Questions on genetics, family history & breast cancer. |
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| 5/25/2011 | Is there any data that compares the rate of relapse or developing new tumors for woman with a damaged version of BRCA1 or BRCA2 who choose lumpectomy plus radiation with mastectomy or double mastectomy? | ||
| Replied | JHU's Breast Center Reply | ||
| 5/25/2011 | What is known is that women with a genetic predisposition to getting breast cancer have a higher incidence of local recurrence following lumpectomy with radiation. Also of course a higher risk of breast cancer in the opposite breast over time as well. So it remains comment for women to opt to do bilateral mastectomies with reconstruction. There are however women who do make the choice of breast conserving therapy and choose for close monitoring instead. It can play with your brain a bit though. still remains personal choice. If lumpectomy with radiation has already been done and local recurrence in the breast happens, then mastectomy must be done because breast cannot be radiated again. Also implants do not work well with radiated skin so DIEP flap or S-GAP is best option for reconstruction. if you want to come our way we are happy to see you and help you. 443-287-2778. | ||
Please note: This service is not intended to provide primary medical advice concerning specific medical care or treatment. Ask an Expert is a free service operated by health care professionals at the Johns Hopkins Avon Foundation Breast Center. Due to the volume of questions and their complexity, there are times when medical oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists or oncology nurses are consulted for their input. These individuals volunteer their time for this service and will respond as soon as they are able. Please do not post or send the same question to us in multiple locations or categories.