A breast cancer diagnosis is terrifying and overwhelming. The biggest priority is always getting cancer out of your body However, if your treatment plan involves a mastectomy, then anyone would be concerned that these treatments might alter the appearance and feel of your breast. It is normal to be concerned about one’s appearance when you hear the words "breast cancer" and "surgery" — and you're not alone if you're scared and have a lot of concerns. The good news is that the advancements in breast reconstruction surgeries have made them safer and better than ever.
It is important to be informed about the choices that breast cancer survivors have post-mastectomy so that they can go on to lead full lives, secure in their bodies and appearance. Onlymyhealth editorial team spoke to Dr. Sabha Talib Neazee, MBBS, MD. (Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology), Luxury Aesthetics, Wellness Clinic, to know about things to keep in mind before breast reconstruction post mastectomy.
Things to keep in mind before breast reconstruction surgery
Here are 5 things that you should keep in mind before your breast reconstruction surgery:
1. It takes time
Breast reconstruction is a procedure that may necessitate more than one surgery. Before having a mastectomy, consult with a reconstructive surgeon to get the entire picture and evaluate whether and when it's suitable for you.
Also read: Living With Breast Cancer? Here Are 5 Steps To Manage The Disease
2. The vast majority of breast cancer survivors are good candidates
Almost every breast cancer survivor who is interested in breast reconstruction is a candidate. While every patient is different and techniques to reconstruction may vary, nearly every breast cancer survivor who is interested in breast reconstruction is a viable candidate.
3. Breast reconstruction can improve your quality of life
Breast reconstruction, whether immediate or delayed, may considerably improve a woman's sense of wholeness and well-being, as well as ease discomfort and chest tightness associated with radiation therapy and, in some cases, improve nipple sensitivity.
4. Prostheses can be cumbersome
Patients who choose prostheses typically find them to be heavy and difficult to fit with their clothes. Prostheses may also need to be replaced on a regular basis. On the other hand, breast reconstruction is a permanent solution for restoring the form and size of your breasts to their natural shape and size.
Also read: All You Need to Know About Reconstructive Surgery
5. You don’t have to live with jagged, indented scars
Over the last decade, advances in breast reconstruction surgery have progressed dramatically, making reduction in the number of indentations and scars an achievable possibility.
Mastectomy has the potential to save a cancer patient's life. Breast reconstruction surgery has the potential to improve it for the better.
Image credits: Freepik