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BREAST CANCER RECONTRUCTION Cancer of the breast is the most common cancer of women, approaching about one in eight women now in the United States. Fortunately, with aggressive prevention, screening, early detection, and treatment of breast cancer, survival of five and ten years is increasing. With the increasing awareness of breast cancer in the United States over the last twenty-five years, breast reconstruction has evolved and now has become more common and an important part of the rehabilitation for the breast cancer mastectomy patient. Not all breast cancer requires mastectomy, but when a mastectomy is indicated, immediate breast reconstruction offers many advantages, both physically and psychologically. The replacement of lost breast tissue from mastectomy can be performed in general by two methods, using either autologous tissue (your own tissue) or prosthetic devices (implants), or a combination. For example, using ones own belly skin, muscle and fat (TRAM flap), a natural appearing breast along with a tighter stomach can be accomplished. Emotional problems resulting from mastectomy include depression, negative body image, loss of femininity, fears of recurrence, loss of sexual interest. By performing reconstruction during the same time, immediately after mastectomy, a patient can recover from surgery avoiding some of the significant emotional distress that comes with a mastectomy. Breast reconstructive surgery allows a smoother and more effective recovery for the patient. Education is very important in making patients aware that breast reconstruction is an option for them. It is unfortunate that many patients who undergo mastectomies are never offered the opportunity for breast reconstruction. I think it is important during the breast cancer awareness month, that patients should be aware that there are reconstructive options that may lessen the traumatic effects of a mastectomy in treating breast cancer. Breast reconstructive surgery for mastectomy patients is very rewarding for the plastic surgeon as well as for the patient. These options can be discussed before the time of mastectomy in order for immediate breast reconstruction to be performed so that the patient may wake up with a more natural and symmetrical appearance. Breast reconstructive surgery is a very safe and well accepted option for any patient undergoing a mastectomy and patients should seek out advice if they are interested. |
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