Breast cancer risk is significantly heightened for individuals who carry genetic mutations such as BRCA1, BRCA2, and others like TP53 and PALB2. For these high-risk individuals, preventive mastectomy (removal of breast tissue to reduce cancer risk) is a crucial consideration. However, the physical changes post-mastectomy can significantly impact body image and quality of life.
The psychological impact of mastectomy is profound and multi-faceted. Women associate breasts with femininity and sexuality; their removal can make them anxious about relationships and intimacy. The physical change can make them feel incomplete and unattractive. They experience an uphill of negative emotions.
Since surgery is the first step to reduce the cancer risk, followed by other preventive measures, most oncologists emphasize double mastectomy with bilateral breast reconstruction in patients diagnosed at high risk for cancer.
Breast reconstruction following a mastectomy offers both physical restoration and psychological well-being. Breast reconstruction provides an opportunity to restore the breast’s shape and appearance, aiding emotional recovery and enhancing self-esteem.
Dr. Garvit Chitkara, a leading breast cancer surgeon in Mumbai associated with Nanavati Max Super Specialty Hospital, states, ‘Bilateral breast reconstruction for mutation carriers focuses on removing cancer risk and also enables women to regain their feminine appeal with a pair of naturally looking breasts and self-esteem too. I am glad I can help reduce their cancer risk and retain their feminine appearance.’
With surgical advancements, it is possible to reconstruct the breasts to improve body image and self-esteem, both of which are essential for women. This procedure is known as bilateral breast reconstruction. It often leads to a significant improvement in the patient’s mental health and overall well-being.
The expertise of oncoplastic surgeons such as Dr Garvit Chitkara comes to the fore when they skillfully reconstruct breasts that match the patient’s body and image, helping them regain their natural figure and look.
Oncoplastic surgeons use implants and tissue flaps, mostly the patient’s tissue, during bilateral breast reconstruction surgeries using different techniques depending on the patient’s health condition and physical parameters.
The oncoplastic surgeon counsels the patients on the procedures and their likely outcomes to ensure they make an informed decision about their treatment plan. Each procedure is performed with great surgical skill and precision.
The patient may undergo genetic counselling to understand the benefits, risks, and implications for relatives, along with mental health support. This surgery is life-altering; hence, comprehensive planning and teamwork are crucial.
Ms. Vishaka Goyal, co-founder of ClinicSpots, a doctor discovery and healthcare platform, vouches for Dr. Garvit Chitkara. She applauds his incomparable surgical excellence in performing such procedures. Dr. Garvit is a patient-centric doctor committed to helping patients recover well with minimal trauma.
Dr Garvit Chitkara recalls the case of Rita, a 32-year-old woman with a BRCA1 gene mutation and a strong family history of breast cancer. When Rita was diagnosed, Dr Chitkara recommended bilateral breast reconstruction to reduce her cancer risk. Rita’s journey was an emotional one, filled with deliberation and fear. However, she took a proactive step and underwent a successful surgery. She admits that she was almost depressed upon hearing about the surgery, but with Dr Chitkara’s support, she regained her confidence.
She asserted that she is indebted to Dr Garvit Chitkara for being proactive when treating her. She was sad about losing her pair of natural breasts, but thanks to Dr Garvit’s breast reconstruction surgery, she regained a pair of naturally looking breasts, her standard body image and considerable self-esteem to step out with confidence.
In her testimony, Rita expresses her profound gratitude to Dr Garvit Chitkara for being a pillar of strength throughout her cancer journey. She states, ‘Right from the initial round of consultation, Dr Garvit has been extremely patient and supportive. He offers satisfactory explanations at every step, big or small. If it weren’t for him, I would not have proceeded with the reconstruction surgery.’
Dr Garvit highlights the need to raise breast cancer awareness and motivate women to come forward for regular breast checkups and screening. He advocates that prevention is better than cure and that early detection improves survival rates.
Contact Us:
Phone Number – +91-91673 28325
Orchid Clinic
Shiv Ashish Commercial Complex,
405, 4th floor, 19th Rd,
Chembur, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400071
Nanavati Max Institute of Cancer Care,
Nanavati Max Superspeciality Hospital,
Vile Parle West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400056
About Dr Garvit Chitkara
Dr. Garvit Chitkara believes in offering comprehensive, evidence-based treatment to his patients. Recognized as one of the finest and most accomplished oncoplastic surgeons, he is committed to raising breast cancer awareness in the best possible approach.
With over fifteen years of experience, he received training at Tata Memorial Hospital, where he worked as a consultant breast surgeon and trained many students in breast cancer surgery.