Prevention & Reconstruction — Medical Information
Breast Cancer
Screening, mammography and risk factors
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in France (approximately 60,000 new cases per year). When detected early, it is cured in the vast majority of cases. Understanding screening, risk factors and reconstruction options is essential for every woman.
Note: This article is for informational purposes only. It does not replace a medical consultation. If you notice any suspicious symptom, consult your doctor or gynaecologist promptly.
Risk factors
Non-modifiable factors
- Female sex (99% of cases)
- Age (rising risk after 50)
- Personal history of breast cancer
- BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation
- First-degree family history
- High-dose chest irradiation before age 30
Modifiable factors
- Overweight and obesity after menopause
- Alcohol consumption
- Physical inactivity
- Prolonged menopausal hormone therapy
- Late first pregnancy or nulliparity
- Not breastfeeding
Screening modalities
Mammography — organised screening
Every 2 years, ages 50–74Mammography remains the reference examination for breast cancer screening. In France, the national programme invites all women aged 50 to 74. Coverage is 100% with no upfront cost. Two views per breast are taken. If an anomaly is found, a second reading by a different radiologist is systematic. Women living outside France should check their own country's national screening guidelines.
Breast self-examination
Monthly, all agesSelf-examination of the breasts allows a woman to detect a lump, a lymph node, nipple discharge or a change in skin appearance. While not a substitute for mammography, it enables a rapid medical consultation when an abnormality is found. It is recommended to perform self-examination after your period, once a month.
Breast MRI
On prescription, high-risk womenMRI is more sensitive than mammography for detecting cancers in dense breast tissue or in high-risk women (BRCA mutation, strong family history). It is prescribed as part of a personalised surveillance programme, on medical advice.
Breast ultrasound
Diagnostic complementUltrasound is used alongside mammography to characterise an abnormality, evaluate dense breast tissue or when mammography is contraindicated. It is not recommended as a stand-alone routine screening examination.
Warning signs: seek medical advice without delay
These signs do not necessarily indicate cancer, but they require prompt medical consultation (within days):
A palpable lump or nodule in the breast
A change in shape or volume of one breast
Nipple retraction or deviation
Nipple discharge (especially unilateral or blood-stained)
Redness, swelling or "orange-peel" skin appearance
Persistent, unusual pain in one breast
Persistent axillary (underarm) lymph node
Ulceration or a wound that does not heal
The plastic surgeon's role in breast cancer care
The plastic surgeon does not treat the cancer itself — which is the remit of the breast surgeon (senologist) and the oncologist — but plays an essential role in breast reconstruction after mastectomy.
Reconstruction may be immediate (at the same time as the mastectomy) or delayed (several months after the end of oncological treatment). It aims to restore the volume, shape and symmetry of the breast.
Dr. de Clermont-Tonnerre performs breast reconstruction after mastectomy, working in close coordination with the oncology team.
Reconstruction techniques
Implant-based reconstruction
Breast implant with or without a tissue expander. The least invasive technique.
Latissimus dorsi flap
Using muscle and skin from the back to reconstruct volume.
DIEP flap
Using skin and fat from the abdomen. Very natural-looking result.
Symmetrisation
Surgery on the opposite breast to harmonise symmetry.