Single Biggest Cancer Dictionary in the World

What is prophylactic mastectomy?

Pronunciation: /ˌprɑfɪˈlæktɪk mæˈstɛktəmi/

prophylactic mastectomy

Definition

Surgery to reduce the risk of breast cancer by removing one or both breasts before disease develops. Prophylactic mastectomy may be done in people who have a very high risk of developing breast cancer. Also called preventive mastectomy and risk-reducing mastectomy.