Dr. Anne Peled, a San Francisco-based surgeon and two-time breast cancer survivor, recently discussed her experience undergoing a sensation-preserving mastectomy—a procedure she co-developed—during an interview with CURE.
Last year, Peled underwent the nerve-sparing surgery, which aims to maintain post-mastectomy sensation, while her husband, nerve surgeon Dr. Ziv Peled, performed the operation alongside a Los Angeles-based surgical team she helped train.
The innovative procedure prioritizes preserving nerve function to prevent numbness and chronic pain often associated with traditional mastectomies. “Having been through this myself, it really was game-changing not to go into surgery feeling like I might lose all sensation,” Peled said. “The idea of keeping sensation, avoiding chronic pain, and being able to regain most feeling over time is incredibly important.”
Peled also offered guidance for fellow cancer survivors navigating the complexities of life after treatment. She emphasized the importance of proactive self-care, including routine screenings, follow-up with healthcare providers, and exercise, which research shows may reduce recurrence risk. “Finding areas where you can take proactive steps is incredibly helpful for managing the emotional roller coaster of survivorship,” she said.
Addressing common misconceptions, Peled highlighted the tendency for survivors to blame themselves for outcomes or recurrence. “There’s a lot that’s out of our control,” she noted. “It’s essential to avoid self-blame and seek psychosocial support during this ongoing journey.” She also stressed that survivorship is not a fixed moment but a spectrum, with each person’s experience evolving over time.
For patients and caregivers, Peled encouraged trusting instincts and seeking multiple medical opinions. “Breast cancer care is constantly evolving,” she explained. “Techniques, technologies, and clinical trial options now available may not have existed during previous diagnoses. Accessing the best care is crucial.”
Dr. Peled’s insights offer both hope and practical guidance for those navigating the physical and emotional challenges of breast cancer survivorship, highlighting advancements that can improve quality of life after mastectomy.
