BRCA 1

Catey2

I have recently been diagnosed as BRCA 1 positive. My sister is also positive and has stage IV ovarian cancer. 18 years ago she survived breast cancer but it was not suggested she be tested for BRCA gene then. I have two adult daughters who thankfully have tested negative. My sister's two sons have chosen not to be tested yet - they are aged in their early 20's.

Before testing positive, I had my ovaries removed as a precaution as a scan showed they were enlarged. I am cancer free but I am leaning towards a prophylactic double mastectomy. I have heard that to have a reconstruction at the same time is quite a major operation and recovery time. I am 59.

Does anyone have any advise re reconstructive surgery done some time after a mastectomy?

Thanks

Cate

farmerlucy

Hi Cate. Sorry about the dx and your sister's dx. My Dil's Gma survived 20 years with ovarian cancer. She was able to see her grandchildren grow up and get to know her great grandchildren. I asked my BS about delayed recon and he said if skin sparing it can be done up to six months later to use the skin. Otherwise I think it can always be done. Good luck with surgery. The thought of surgery was worse than the actuality for me.

Moderators

Hi Cate, and welcome to Breastcancer.org,

We're sorry to hear about your BRCA1 positive test results, although having this information will empower you to help reduce your risk.

You may want to ask the helpful members in our Reconstruction forum about their experiences with immediate and delayed reconstruction.

We hope this helps!

--The Mods