LCIS prophylactic mastectomy/reconstruction

[Fuzzz]

If one opts for PBM for a diagnosis of LCIS at 45, would skin/nipples be spared?  On another forum, people were talking about expanders, so it sounds like skin was removed.  They had not had radiation or usually a more advanced diagnosis than LCIS.  I was hoping that if all I have is LCIS, the surgeon could spare skin and nipples?  

I asked this already on the expert site for reconstructive surgery, but have not received a reply

[Fuzzz]

Oh thank goodness.

Why would they use tissue expanders if the skin is spared and reconstruction is immediate?  Back in the 80s, when I worked in the OR, it seems like tissue expanders were just coming into use, and I assumed they were to help with more aggressive surgical cases.  I would be staying with a C cup rather than going up in size.  Or are tissue expanders used in order to put the implant under the muscle instead of on top?  

[PaulMD]

Hi there.

Nipple and skin sparing mastectomies are indeed an option in your situation.  LCIS will not usually require a post-operative radiation treatment that would make breast reconstruction planning easier and more cosmetically acceptable.

Skin and nipple sparing procedures can be followed by implantation of tissue expanders and later on silicone implantation.  You can also opt to have the silicone implants placed during the procedure itself.

This option is indeed viable in your situation.  Ask your surgeons about it.

Regards.