Elective Mastectomy and Reconstruction?

You may be a candidate. I recommend that you meet with a breast surgeon or oncologist who may then elect to refer you to a genetic specialist, who will be able to determine whether you meet the criteria.

From your description you may be a candidate for BRCA gene testing. If you are positive, then your odds of developing breast cancer are quite high. Insurance should cover your surgery if you are BRCA positive. I would suggest finding a center where you can have skin-sparing mastectomy  and direct-to-implant reconstruction with Alloderm and have it all done in one stage.

Thank you for your question.   I would recommend consultation with your ob/gyn or a breast surgeon for BRCA gene testing.   The unfortunate nature of this process is that only 2 genes have been discovered, BRCA 1 and BRCA 2.    We who deal with this disease frequently believe there are several genes out there not yet discovered.   

However, if you do not test positive for BRCA 1 or 2, your insurance will not cover this procedure.  This is very frustrating and worrisome to both the patient and the doctor.   I wish you all the best in your journey.

Dr. Gill