Is it safe for me to have breast reduction surgery while living with stage 4 MBC?

Question

I'm 52, DX 4.6 years ago with denovo MBC and have been stable for 4 of those years. My treatment has made me gain weight so my already large breasts are becoming enormous. Is this kind of surgery risky? I've had numerous other surgeries since Dx (partial thyroidectomy, rod in femur, and De Quervain wrist) and haven't had any issues, but I'm not finding much research on this topic. Thanks

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

If your medical doctor clears you for elective surgery, you might be a candidate for this. Go visit with your primary care physician first.

Elaina Chen, MD · Answer

Did your MBC have any primary tumor in the breast that required surgical excision, eg lumpectomy, followed by radiation?
If yes - breast reduction after radiation is always a bit tricky as the breast tissue and skin doesn't behave normally and can settle in unpredictable ways. I recommend finding a plastic surgeon who also specializes in oncoplastic breast reconstruction. Many plastic surgeons will be uncomfortable operating on a radiated breast.
If no - it depends on how much weight you've gained. I generally recommend that patients are at BMI less than 30 to have best surgical outcomes, especially if operating on a radiated breast.
In either case, your oncologic medications may suppress your immune system and make it unsafe to proceed with surgery. Coordination will be required between you, your oncologist, and your plastic surgeon.

Is it safe for me to have breast reduction surgery while living with stage 4 MBC?

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Is it safe for me to have breast reduction surgery while living with stage 4 MBC?

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Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.