Is having a prophylactic mastectomy a good idea? what are all the ramifications?

For some patients: Only if you have a very high risk of breast cancer should you consider this operation. Having the breast cancer gene is a frequent indication. The ramifications, well how do you view life without breasts? There aren't really any physiologic problems afterwards, and you can either wear prosthetics or have reconstruction, but it is definitely not the same. Big decision. Get lots of advice.

Personal choice: Getting a prophylactic mastectomy depends on what risk factors are present (personal history of cancer in other breast, family history of breast/ovarian cancer, lcis, biospy with atypia). You should meet with a breast specialist to get a full workup and risk assessment. The ramifications are associated with the risk of surgery. This recommendation is individualized after intense discussions.