Breast Cancer Illness New York City, NY
Every two minutes, there is a new diagnosis of breast cancer among women. It is estimated that 1 out of every 8 women in the United States will develop breast cancer in her lifetime. In 2019, there were an estimated 268,600 new cases of invasive breast cancer, and 62,930 new non-invasive cases diagnosed in women, according to the
National Breast Cancer Foundation. Aside from skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women.
Dr. B. Aviva Preminger, a top-rated female plastic surgeon in Manhattan, wants women to understand their options regarding surgery related to breast cancer illness. Whether you have been genetically tested for breast cancer and carry the gene that causes it, or you have been diagnosed with breast cancer and are considering a mastectomy or breast reconstruction, Dr. Preminger wants to share some insightful information regarding your surgical options.
First, let’s look at what causes breast cancer
It may be difficult to pinpoint the cause of breast cancer, but certain risk factors make it more likely that you may develop it. Sometimes breast cancer is hereditary, and other causes may be environmental.
Some risk factors include:
- Family history and genetic factors
- Personal health history
- Menstrual and reproductive history
- Gene mutations
- Dense breast tissue
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Alcohol consumption
- Combined hormone replacement therapy
- Being overweight
- Unhealthy diet
Breast cancer illness is not caused by wearing underwire bras, antiperspirants, or from using cell phones or microwaves.
There are genetic tests available to determine your risk
The BRCA gene test analyzes the DNA in your blood to identify any abnormal or harmful changes, such as cell mutations, to determine your risk of developing breast cancer. Women with a history of breast cancer illness before 45 years of age, previously had two or more types of cancer, ovarian cancer, or a family history of breast cancer may consider the BRCA gene test. A positive test result significantly increases your risk of developing breast cancer illness. However, a negative result means that you run the same risks as the general population. Therefore, it may still be difficult to determine your precise risk of developing breast cancer. In some cases, women who receive a positive diagnosis may choose to take proactive measures by having one or both breasts removed through a procedure commonly referred to as a mastectomy. This proactive measure is an individual choice, and Dr. Preminger is here to help women considering this decision.
How to know if you have breast cancer
Breast cancer has a
5-year survival rate of 99% if caught early. You must practice self-care and receive routine clinical exams every year. Also, women who are 40 years of age or older should receive a mammogram at least once every 1 to 2 years. Women under the age of 40 who have higher risk factors of developing breast cancer should receive regularly scheduled mammograms as recommended by their physician. Between your routine exams, all women should perform self-exams often, noting any changes in their breasts.
Symptoms of breast cancer may include:
- Irritation or dimpling of the breast skin
- Lumps in the breast or armpit
- Red or flaky skin around the nipple area
- Swelling or thick area of the breast
- Changes in breast size or shape
- Pulling or pain in the nipple area
- Nipple discharge (blood, not breast milk)
- Pain in the breast
Regaining confidence after breast cancer illness
Breast reconstruction can help you regain your confidence after a mastectomy. While some women that undergo a mastectomy may choose not to receive breast reconstruction, others may elect to have this surgery for personal reasons. Whether you had a mastectomy as a preventive measure, or it was necessary because of the type of breast cancer illness you had, a consultation with Dr. Preminger is the first step in determining what comes next.
From year to year, breast augmentation procedures remain the most popular type of plastic surgery performed in America. Data released by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons shows that nearly 314,000 of these surgeries took place in 2018—an increase of nearly 50 percent compared to 2000 and a 4 percent uptick from 2017. Breast reconstruction and implants can help women who had mastectomies regain their confidence.
Preminger Plastic Surgery offers the following types of breast implants in Manhattan:
- Gummy Bear implants
- Silicone implants
- Saline implants
A consultation with Dr. Preminger is a great opportunity to ask any questions and to find out which option is best for you. She will provide a full review of your health history and discuss the different reconstruction and implant options. Dr. Preminger is board-certified, so you can be sure you’re receiving the highest possible level of care.
Breast Reconstruction in Manhattan
Dr. Preminger specializes in breast reconstruction and augmentation. If you would like to learn more about your options following breast cancer illness, please schedule your initial consultation today by calling (212) 706-1900 or contacting us online.
Preminger Plastic Surgery is proud to serve patients on the Upper East Side of Manhattan and throughout New York City.