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Patient outcomes and experiences of going flat
https://www.facingourrisk.org/XRAY/going-flat
Full article: https://doi.org/10.1245/s10434-020-09448-9
Some patients with early-stage breast cancer or those considering risk-reducing surgery may choose mastectomy without reconstruction. This is often referred to as “going flat.” The results of this study suggest that surgeons play a significant role in supporting a patient’s decision to go flat. (3/23/2021)
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Expert Guidelines
NCCN has outlined principles of breast reconstruction or going flat following mastectomy surgery. These include the following:
- All patients undergoing breast cancer treatment should be educated about breast reconstructive options based on their situation.
- Selection of reconstruction option is bassed on many factors, including cancer treatment, patient preference, obesity, smoking history, comorbidities and patient concerns.
- Patients may chose not to have breast reconstruction after mastectomy. The option of mastectomy with no reconstruction and optimized closure (aesthetic flat closure) should be part of the discussion of patients' options after mastectomy.
- Breast reconstruction or going flat should be a shared decision between the patient and their surgeon.
Questions To Ask Your Health Care Provider
- Is going flat an option for me?
- What are the risks and benefits of going flat?
- What are the risks and benefits of having breast reconstruction?
- What are the risks and benefits of having breast-conserving surgery?
- Am I a candidate for an aesthetic flat closure?
- Are there resources that you can recommend if I choose to go flat?
- If I go flat, are breast implants or other reconstructive procedures an option later in life?
Open Clinical Trials
The following are studies related to breast reconstruction or no reconstruction after mastectomy.
About FORCE
FORCE is a national nonprofit organization, established in 1999. Our mission is to improve the lives of individuals and families affected by adult hereditary cancers.