Breast Augmentation: Beyond The Cosmetic

If you are a cancer survivor or know someone that is and have lost one of your breasts due to this terrible disease, then you know the physical and emotional pain surrounding the mastectomy. Reconstructive breast augmentation can help you overcome some of that pain.

Often seen as purely an elective, cosmetic surgery, breast augmentation is gradually gaining a reputation among patients who have overcome cancer. Most of the same techniques used in the cosmetic surgery are used for patients who have received a mastectomy. Set-up an appointment with a local cosmetic surgeon and discuss the procedure with them. You may be surprised to find that reconstructive surgery is readily available for cancer-survivors.

Generally, the doctor will discuss implant types and sizes with the patient. If a patient has had one of their breasts removed then the doctor will work to match the size of the remaining breast. In the case of a double mastectomy, the patient and doctor will discuss the desired breast size and create a plan for the patient’s new bust.

Breast augmentation for those who have received less invasive surgery like a lumpectomy that has left their breasts deformed is also common. Usually a lumpectomy doesn’t cause breast to become misshapen. The procedure is done to try to conserve what tissue remains so that it is undetectable by the eye. Occasionally, though, in some cases, a patient will undergo multiple lumpectomies or will have a larger benign tumor removed that leaves the breasts deformed.

Whatever the reason for implants, even if it is purely cosmetic, it is a choice that is ultimately extremely personal. Each patient is treated as an individual by the acting surgeon. Their desires are listened to and their emotions are heeded. Deciding to have the procedures is never an easy decision. Most people understand that the enhancement will change their lives forever.

In the case of reconstruction of the breasts after lumpectomies or a mastectomy, the patient will often have counseling and other resources available to them. Cosmetic and reconstructive surgeons understand the personal and emotional trauma that ensues after a patient survives a surgery like the mastectomy. They also want to make sure the patient is prepared for the positive changes that the reconstruction will bring.

If you or someone you know is a cancer survivor and has undergone a mastectomy, research cosmetic surgeons in your area that specialize in breast augmentation. Talk to them about whether or not they are comfortable doing a reconstructive surgery. Tell them about your specific situation. Most likely, they will want to discuss your options with you and talk about what you can expect. If you are concerned about costs or any other part of the procedure, use this time to talk it over with the surgeon.

Having a breast removed can be extremely traumatic. However, breast augmentation and reconstruction can help you overcome some of that emotional trauma and get you back to feeling like yourself. Talk with a cosmetic surgeon today to see if it is the right choice for you.