Male Breast Cancer Patients Have Breast Reconstruction Options, Too

According to BreastCancer.org, approximately 2,650 men are likely to receive a breast cancer diagnosis in 2021. About 530 men are expected to die of the disease. Breast cancer often goes undetected in men for longer than in women. One reason is that men are less likely to perform regular self-breast exams and/or are unaware of risk factors. 

Risk factors for men to develop breast cancer include: 

1. Age, as the average age of diagnosis, is 68
2. Increased estrogen exposure, such as via hormonal medications, obesity, liver disease, or environmental estrogens
3. Genetic mutations, such as BRCA1/2, within the family health history
4. Radiation exposure

Many men who have been diagnosed with breast cancer assume they have very limited options for plastic and reconstructive surgery, sometimes assuming their only option will be a full mastectomy. However, similar to their female patient counterparts, breast cancer treatments for males are not one-size-fits-all. Depending on the case, breast-conserving surgery can be a viable option. With many oncoplastic surgical solutions now available, male breast cancer survivors can pursue a better quality of life post-procedure.

Mastectomies have continued to be the more popular option, but ensuring appropriate scar reduction and a smooth chest wall surface allows them to have a cosmetic result they’re happy with. The nipple-areola can also be reconstructed for an improved appearance, or a mastectomy can be combined with liposuction for fat grafting. There are also options for bilateral reductions, DIEP flap reconstruction surgery, or implants. 

Dr. J. J. Wendel Plastic Surgery performs breast reconstruction surgery in our fully-accredited surgical facility in Nashville, TN. We would love to help you achieve incredible results and feel at home in your skin again. Schedule a consultation with us to learn more about your breast reconstruction options.

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