Mastectomy is the removal due to breast cancer. Sometimes only part of the breast is removed; in severe cases, both boobs must be removed. Occasionally, mastectomy is performed preventatively on women who are at high risk of developing breast cancer.
The effect of mastectomy is devastating. It often damages a woman's concept of herself as a woman. It is disfiguring, and in some cases it leads to serious mental problems like depression or neurosis.
If, unfortunately, you have to have a mastectomy, keep in mind that many women go through the same thing as you. It is a drastic measure that will save your life in the long run. And best of all, there are now plastic surgery options available for you to get your breasts back.
How Reconstruction Can Help
The most common type of reconstruction is the implant. There are saline and silicone implants. Both have their advantages; a good idea is to talk to a plastic surgeon about it and discuss the pros and cons. They will have sample implants for you to feel during the consultation.
In general, silicone has a more natural feel than saline, but saline has always been more popular because of silicone's health concerns. Several years ago, the FDA approved silicone for use, and most surgeons consider it perfectly safe, but it is a choice that must be made by each woman.
There is a wonderful new option for women who are leery of implants. It is the "flap." There are a variety of flaps, such as the TRAM or the DIEP flap. They use tissue from other parts of the body to fill in the missing tissue.
These days, many women prefer this option because it is more natural. Instead of having implants, which are foreign objects placed in your body, they prefer to use their own body's tissue. The results also feel more natural. The only disadvantage is that it requires a more complicated procedure, and not every woman is eligible for it.
Always Keep In Mind Risks And Complications
Like any surgical procedure, reconstruction after mastectomy carries some risks. Most of the complications they experience are due to improper healing. There will be scars, and they may not disappear completely over time. There is always a risk of infection, so you must make sure to follow doctor's instructions.
For most women, the risks and potential for complications is well worth it. With your breasts back, you can feel like yourself again. It is most important to talk carefully with the doctor during your consultation, and make sure you are aware of all the risks the surgery poses.
With reconstruction, you can have your chest back. You no longer have to live with the effects of cancer every day. Talk to your doctor today to see if you are eligible. What reduction can do be aware of risks and complications have a consultation with a skilled plastic surgeon.
![[Valid RSS feed]](http://www.articlefriendly.net/images/icon_Rss.png "XML Feed For RSS"){kind=icon}
Category Rss Feed
Print This Article
Add To Favorites
