BRCA1 Positive - Vancouver, WA

In July of 2014 I tested positive for BRCA1 and was told that I had an 87% chance of developing breast cancer and a 44% chance of developing ovarian cancer. I had my ovaries removed in October 2014 and two weeks later I had a double mastectomy. I then started seeing Dr. Gabriel for breast reconstruction. I had a total of four surgeries this year and just had the last surgery on November 25, 2015.
When I was first told that I should have a mastectomy, my first thought was no way in hell. After giving it more thought though, I decided that I didn't want to spend the rest of my life worrying about whether I might develop breast cancer between checkups. I started researching Dr. Gabriel online and talked to several women who had had surgeries with him. Everything I read and was told was extremely positive. This helped make my decision a little easier. I highly recommend Dr. Gabriel. He is very knowledgeable and seems to really care about his patients. If I ever needed to see another plastic surgeon, I would definitely go back to him. He also has a very nice staff who goes out of their way to be helpful.
I have always been large chested and I can honestly say that I do not miss my old breasts. The only thing I don't like is that I no longer have any feeling, but it is a small price to pay to not have to worry about getting breast cancer and going through chemo.
Another thing, since this is hereditary, my insurance covered everything. I just had to pay my deductible and out-of-pocket, which totaled $2,463 for the year.