Breast revision post metastatic melanoma cancer

Question

Is it normal for a plastic surgeon to not want to perform an implant exchange and redo a lift with a medical history of metastatic melanoma cancer? I’ve been off treatment for almost 16 months and all clear scans since. I had a consult with one surgeon that didn’t feel their surgical suite could handle it. I was referred to a hospital with surgeons who could possibly do it in a hospital setting but I don’t feel they meet my needs. Any one have and situations similar to this? Please help!

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

The fact that you have had metastatic melanoma and has since been cured should not prevent you from getting surgery. Many surgeons do not like to perform implant exchange and redo a lift because it is a complicated procedure. However, I do this routinely. The technique I recommend is The Bellesoma Method. This will reshape your breast tissue creating upper pole fullness without implants, elevate them higher on the chest wall and more medial to increase your cleavage. Vertical scars are avoided, nipple sensation (in 95%) and the ability to breast feed are maintained if not injured during your previous surgery.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

Actually I  think most surgeons would have no problem doing your surgery. Surgeons who would turn you down are in the minority . As long as your heart and lungs and blood pressure are ok

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

You need to give much more history and show photos before anyone can say much more. If the melanoma was on the breast or chest and you had any radiation, it might be best to avoid future surgery. Most melanoma patients are not treated with radiation. Also, if a flap was needed for closure and this is the area of the breast surgery, this could pose a problem to your circulation.  Go back to your last surgeon and ask more questions.  Some surgeons may also want you to be further along from you melanotic cancer treatment before considering elective surgery.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

If you’ve had metastatic melanoma, then you know what comes with the disease.
Having had previous metastatic melanoma should not by itself change your candidacy for breast surgery.
People may have their own reasons for not wanting to take on certain patients for certain cases. It would be nice if people were upfront, honest and straightforward, but not all people are.
It may be legitimate medical reasons to be cautious or not cake on this surgical procedure, but I’m not seeing it.
I generally recommend all patients considering having cosmetic surgery getting multiple in person consultations before considering scheduling surgery. Perhaps you just haven’t had enough consultations yet.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom, MD

Breast revision post metastatic melanoma cancer

Answers (4)

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