I have a titanium chip marking a "problem" area in my right breast where microcalcifications were removed and tested and came back fine. I have to have mammograms every 6 months. My grandmother on my mother's side died of breast cancer at 38. I have very saggy breasts that have shrunken considerably due to weight loss and breast feeding. Would I be a candidate for breast lift and/or augmentation, or should I avoid these procedures because of my breast health "issues"?
Answered by: Darrick E. Antell, MD
New York, NY
It's difficult to give an accurate response without actually examining this patient. For example is the "titanium chip" in an area outside the proposed surgical site? If it is, then one might proceed with the surgery. However, without a more complete history and exam, my inclination would be to recommend against this patient having surgery, because of the "breast health issues" described.