Imagine discovering a life-threatening condition during a procedure meant to improve your quality of life. That’s exactly what happened to Kim Burris, a 45-year-old from Chapel Hill, whose routine breast reduction surgery turned into a potentially life-saving intervention. But here’s where it gets even more compelling: the early-stage breast cancer detected during her surgery had gone unnoticed by routine mammograms, the gold standard for screening. How could this happen? And what does it mean for women’s health?
Kim had long considered breast reduction surgery to alleviate chronic back pain, discomfort, and the frustration of ill-fitting clothing. After breastfeeding her daughter for three years, she finally decided it was time to prioritize herself. ‘I felt like an imposter in my own body,’ she shared. ‘This was something I needed to do for me.’ Little did she know, her decision would lead to a discovery that could save her life.
During the surgery, Dr. Heather Levites, a Raleigh-based plastic surgeon, noticed something unusual in the removed tissue. Following standard protocol, she sent it for pathological testing. The results revealed ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), the most common form of early-stage breast cancer. DCIS begins in the breast ducts and, if left untreated, can spread to surrounding tissue. Symptoms can include painless lumps, redness, nipple changes, or a red rash—none of which Kim had experienced, except for a clogged milk duct she attributed to breastfeeding.
And this is the part most people miss: Despite regular mammograms and a family history of breast cancer (her grandmother had battled the disease), Kim’s DCIS was undetected until surgery. Dr. Levites emphasized the importance of sending all removed breast tissue for testing, a practice that proved critical in Kim’s case. ‘We are our own best advocates,’ Dr. Levites said. ‘Self-exams and staying proactive are often the first line of defense.’
Kim’s story highlights the limitations of even the best screening tools and the importance of comprehensive care. Dr. Levites connected her with Dr. Jennifer Plichta, a surgical oncologist at Duke Cancer Center, ensuring she received the best possible follow-up. Thanks to the early detection, Kim doesn’t require additional treatment but plans to continue preventive measures and regular check-ups.
Early detection of breast cancer not only increases survival rates but also reduces the need for invasive treatments, empowering women to take control of their health. According to the National Institutes of Health, it can significantly reduce anxiety and provide a sense of agency. But Kim’s case raises a controversial question: Are mammograms enough, or do we need to rethink how we approach breast cancer screening?
What do you think? Should more emphasis be placed on tissue testing during routine procedures? Or is the responsibility on individuals to advocate for themselves more aggressively? Share your thoughts in the comments—this is a conversation worth having.
