By Kyle Marie McMahon
For Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we are sharing a powerful local story that underscores the importance of proactive health decisions and a physician’s intuition. When Kimberly Burris decided to undergo breast reduction surgery with Raleigh-based, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Heather Levites, her goals were to relieve chronic pain and improve her quality of life. Despite having a family history of breast cancer, Kimberly had no symptoms and her regular mammograms were clear.
During the routine procedure, however, Dr. Levites noticed an area of tissue that felt unusual. Trusting her instincts, she sent the specific tissue for testing, a small step that led to a life-changing discovery: an early-stage breast cancer that would have otherwise gone undetected. We spoke with both Dr. Levites and Burris to discuss their experience, the importance of the doctor-patient relationship, and the powerful message their story holds for women everywhere.
Dr. Levites on the breast reduction surgery
Midtown: Can you describe your thought process during the breast reduction surgery? What specifically did you notice about the tissue that struck you as unusual and prompted you to send it for testing?
Dr. Levites: During the procedure, as I was working with the breast tissue, I noticed an area that felt different. It was firmer and more irregular in texture than what I typically encounter, and also had blood vessels going directly to it. It wasn’t overtly suspicious, but it stood out enough for me to pause and consider whether it needed further evaluation. We routinely send tissue samples from breast reductions for pathology, but in this case, I made sure that specific area was marked and prioritized for testing. It’s a small step that can make a big difference.
In your experience as a plastic surgeon, how common is it to discover an unexpected malignancy during a procedure like a breast reduction?
It’s rare. Studies show that fewer than 1% of breast reduction specimens reveal an undiagnosed cancer or precancerous lesion. However, rare doesn’t mean never. I’ve learned to remain observant and treat each procedure with the same level of attention as if it were the first. We also take into account patient age, personal and family history, and breast density when determining what to look out for.
You mention that breast reduction surgery can reduce a patient’s risk of developing breast cancer. Could you elaborate on the science behind this and how it also improves the effectiveness of future mammograms?
Several long-term studies have shown that breast reduction surgery can decrease the risk of developing breast cancer by approximately 20–30%, though more conservative estimates often cite a 5–15% risk reduction. The risk decreases primarily because a significant volume of breast tissue—where cancer can originate—is permanently removed. In addition, post-operative mammograms tend to be easier to interpret. Smaller, less dense breasts allow radiologists to detect abnormalities with greater clarity and less chance of false positives or obscured tumors.
Beyond the physical benefits, you often see a drastic improvement in a patient’s quality of life. What are some of the most significant psychological or emotional transformations you witness in your breast reduction patients?
The change is often dramatic. Many patients walk into my office physically burdened by chronic neck, back, and shoulder pain, but they’re also carrying years of emotional discomfort. After surgery, I often see patients stand taller, move more freely, and regain confidence in how they look and feel. It’s common to hear phrases like, “I wish I had done this sooner.” For some, it’s the first time in years that they feel truly at ease in their own bodies.
What is the key message you hope other women take away from this specific experience, particularly regarding proactive health and the role that procedures like this can play in early detection?
I hope this case reminds women that taking action for your health—whether it’s pursuing surgery for quality of life or staying current on screenings—can sometimes have unexpected but lifesaving consequences. Breast reduction is often viewed as elective or cosmetic, but it can have substantial health benefits. This is also a story about the importance of vigilance and trusting your instincts as a physician. A seemingly small decision to send tissue for testing made a life-changing difference.
Kimberly Burris on her surgery and diagnosis
Midtown: What were your primary reasons for deciding to have breast reduction surgery? Was the potential for cancer risk reduction a factor in your decision-making process at all?
Burris: My primary reasons were to feel more comfortable in my body and to relieve the neck and back pain I had experienced for years due to having larger breasts. The potential to reduce my risk of breast cancer was also a factor as well–especially given the fact that I have a family history of breast cancer on my mother’s side. I also had dense breast tissue, which can make detecting cancer through routine mammograms more difficult, so that concern played a role in my decision to move forward with the procedure as well.
Can you describe what it was like to receive the news about your diagnosis? What was your initial reaction to learning that the cancer was discovered incidentally during this procedure?
It’s hard to put into words what I felt in that moment. Initially, I was numb—just trying to wrap my head around what this meant for me and for my family, especially as the mother of a toddler. My mind immediately went to wanting to be here for my child. I leaned heavily on my faith and focused on staying positive, both for my own mental health and to be a source of strength for my loved ones.
Before the surgery, you were having regular mammograms and had no symptoms. How has this experience changed your perspective on health screenings and being proactive about your own body?
This experience has completely shifted my perspective. I’ve become even more committed to prioritizing my health and well-being. It’s also made me realize how important it is to listen to your body, advocate for yourself, and stay up to date on routine screenings—even when everything seems normal.
You credit Dr. Levites with saving your life. Could you share more about that feeling, and the relationship you now have with her?
Dr. Levites is truly a rare gem in the medical world. From the first time I met her, she’s been warm, kind, and incredibly transparent – always taking the time to answer my questions and ease my concerns. She will forever hold a special place in my heart. She supported me through one of the most difficult times in my life, and continues to be a steady, compassionate presence. I genuinely believe that her care and diligence saved my life.
As you share your story during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, what is the most important piece of advice or encouragement you want to offer other women?
As women, we often juggle so many responsibilities and care deeply for others, but we can’t forget to care for ourselves too. It’s easy to put off routine checkups or screenings, especially when life gets busy, but those appointments matter. They could be the key to catching something early, before it becomes more serious. Prioritize your health. You’re so worth it.
Both Dr. Levites and the patient (Kimberly Burris)
Midtown: Can you both recall the conversation when the diagnosis was shared? What was that moment like from each of your perspectives?
Dr. Levites: I remember calling her from home as soon as I received a call from the pathologist. It’s never easy to make that kind of call, especially when the diagnosis is unexpected. But I also knew that we had caught it early, which is the most important factor in long-term outcomes. I explained what we had found, reassured her that we had acted quickly, and made sure she had a clear understanding of the next steps. It was a serious moment, but also one filled with hope.
Burris: For me, the conversation felt surreal. I wasn’t expecting a call like that, and hearing the news took my breath away. However, Dr. Levites showed up exactly how I needed her to in that moment—calm, kind, and reassuring. After we hung up, I just sat in silence, trying to process everything before telling my loved ones. I took time to ground myself so I could show up for myself and them from a place of strength and clarity.
This story is a powerful example of a doctor’s intuition and a patient’s proactive decision coming together for a life-saving outcome. What do you both feel this says about the importance of the doctor-patient relationship and open communication in health care today?
Dr. Levites: It highlights just how essential trust and communication are. When a patient feels comfortable asking questions and sharing concerns, and when a physician listens closely and remains attentive, the quality of care improves significantly. Good medicine isn’t just about technical skill; it’s about partnership. This case reinforces that health care works best when it’s collaborative.
Burris: This experience has deepened my appreciation for the doctor-patient relationship. Trust, transparency, communication, and diligence are everything. Having a physician like Dr. Levites, who takes the time to truly listen, who sees you as a whole person, and who goes the extra mile really makes all the difference. It’s a true testament of how powerful that relationship can be when both sides are engaged and open.
What do you hope will be the biggest impact of sharing this story with our readers?
Dr. Levites: I hope it encourages women to prioritize their health and not to dismiss procedures that could improve their well-being. I also hope it serves as a reminder to medical professionals to never become complacent, even in “routine” procedures. The combination of proactive care, detailed surgical attention, and mutual trust between patient and provider can lead to outcomes that go far beyond the original goal of surgery.
Burris: My hope is that this story inspires women to prioritize their health—to be proactive, stay informed, and never delay routine care. Early detection truly can save lives. I also want to remind women that they’re not alone. We are rock stars—we carry so much, we show up for everyone around us, and we push through even the hardest days. But we also need to show up for ourselves. If sharing my journey helps even one woman feel empowered or supported, then it’s all worth it. We’re in this together, and together we’re stronger.
As we recognize Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Kimberly Burris’ journey serves as a poignant and personal call to action. It’s a reminder, in her own words, that even though women are “rock stars” who show up for everyone else, it is essential to show up for ourselves by prioritizing our health and never delaying routine care. Her experience with Dr. Levites beautifully illustrates that proactive health choices and a doctor’s compassionate diligence can lead to the most hopeful outcomes, turning an unexpected diagnosis into a story of empowerment and gratitude.
