There has been an abundance of pink popping up everywhere in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. From pink ribbons and bumper stickers to hats and t-shirts, people across the country are pledging their commitment to the cause. Celebrities and advocates for the cure are voicing their concerns through fundraisers, sponsored walks and public forums, making sure everyone is aware of breast cancer dangers. Being cognizant of the problem is one thing, but staying informed on the statistics and treatments is even more important. With over 250,000 women facing breast cancer every year, people need to know about the newest treatments as well as the improvements made in restoring a woman’s health, figure and strength.
Through the efforts of Breast Cancer Awareness, people are learning more about the restorative abilities of breast reconstruction. The advances in research have made it easier to detect breast cancer early, allowing women to undergo minimal treatment through lumpectomies, which only remove the tumor. For those already in later stages of cancer, with a greater possibility of relapse, full mastectomies are the favored treatment option, which remove all the breast tissue. This is both a physically and emotionally taxing procedure, leaving women feeling incomplete. Breast reconstruction can help women gain back their original body contour, making it easier to fully recover from cancer.
Breast reconstruction can be performed immediately following a mastectomy or can be delayed until a few months later. It all depends on the condition of the patient and whether or not they need further treatment, such as radiation therapy or chemotherapy. Breast cancer patients can choose to have their breasts reconstructed through the use of implants or flap procedures. When deciding which method to choose, patients need to consider their personal health, stage of cancer, natural breast size and available tissue. It can be a lot to think about, so it’s a good idea to discuss all these factors with an oncologist and a certified plastic surgeon.
Hearing you have breast cancer can be extremely scary and overwhelming, but it is important to remember that you can beat it. While cancer treatments may take a toll on your body, there are ways to feel like yourself again. You can fight breast cancer and still have an incredibly feminine figure that you can be proud of. Breast cancer awareness month is a good time to learn about all your recovery options, including breast reconstruction. Experienced plastic surgeons can provide essential information about breast cancer and reconstructive surgery. If you want to learn more or schedule a free consultation with a certified surgeon in your area, contact one of our liaisons today.
See Also: PSP's Complete Guide to Breast Reconstruction Surgery
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