Following breast cancer surgery, some women may opt for ways to make breast cancer recovery easier; such ways include breast reconstructive surgery and the use of prosthesis, which we will look at in detail in this article.
Breast cancer recovery
Undergoing breast cancer treatment can be physically as well as emotionally draining. With many changes occurring, that may be tough to deal with. The term “chemobrain” was even coined to describe the mental alterations caused by chemotherapy treatment as patients have reported memory problems and difficulty focusing. Also, patients who are undergoing breast cancer therapy may experience fatigue, which is typical.
It might be difficult to keep up with daily routines, leaving patients feeling alienated or overwhelmed. During this difficult time, friends and family can be invaluable providers of support and assistance. Some people even choose to join a local or online support group to talk about their experiences and help raise breast cancer awareness.
Breast Reconstructive Surgery
Following breast cancer surgery, many women elect to have reconstructive surgery. The surgery makes use of implants or tissues derived from different parts of the body. This surgery can be carried out simultaneously as the mastectomy- when the women are being operated upon to remove the cancerous breast or carried out months or even years later.
Implants
The implant surgery works like this; a few weeks before the implant surgery, a surgeon will place a tissue expander under the skin to stretch the skin and allow a silicone gel or saline implant to be inserted. The tissue expander is gradually filled to the desired volume each week to the new breast size the patient wants before the implant insertion surgery.
Tissue Flap Procedure
To reconstruct a woman’s breast, her tissue is removed from her abdomen or back to form a mound. The tissue is sometimes left connected to its original blood supply, while other times it is detached and reconnected to a blood supply near its new location. Some individuals also get nipple reconstruction using tissue from the back or abdomen flap. The nipple is then tattooed with the intention of making it have the natural color of a nipple. However, a prosthetic nipple is also a possibility and can be made by copying your natural nipple.
Alternative to Reconstructive Surgery: Prosthesis
A breast form, or prosthesis, is a non-surgical alternative to reconstructive surgery. Breast prosthesis simulates the appearance of natural breasts without the need for surgery. It is a device that is put inside a bra or bathing suit to provide a balanced appearance while dressed. Breast prostheses are available in various styles, sizes, and materials such as foam, silicone gel, or fiberfill interior.
