Breast cancer survivor with the recently discovered PALB2 genetic mutation discusses her upcoming prophylactic double mastectomy with reconstruction.
BY Barbara Tako
PUBLISHED April 05, 2018
Barbara Tako is a breast cancer survivor (2010), melanoma survivor (2014) and author of Cancer Survivorship Coping Tools–We'll Get You Through This. She is a cancer coping advocate, speaker and published writer for television, radio and other venues across the country. She lives, survives, and thrives in Minnesota with her husband, children and dog. See more at www.cancersurvivorshipcopingtools.com,or www.clutterclearingchoices.com.
Why doesn’t the same surgeon who removes the breasts do the reconstruction? Answer: Because it is a conflict of interest. The general surgeon’s goal is to remove as much breast tissue as possible to prevent cancer recurrence. The plastic surgeon’s goal is to rebuild the breasts starting with what is left. Who knew? My plastic surgeon and general surgeon have been generous with their time and very patient—I am a question-asker and note-taker to the extreme.
Is a double mastectomy a “free” boob job? No. A mastectomy is a much larger and more invasive and painful surgery. Stretching the muscles and skin to accommodate the new implants is a long and painful process, and there is often a loss of nipples, sensation, warmth, strength and range of motion. Do not say to someone getting a mastectomy due to breast cancer, “Oh, you are getting a free boob job.” There is a lot of loss.
Is a double mastectomy a “free” boob job? No. A mastectomy is a much larger and more invasive and painful surgery. Stretching the muscles and skin to accommodate the new implants is a long and painful process, and there is often a loss of nipples, sensation, warmth, strength and range of motion. Do not say to someone getting a mastectomy due to breast cancer, “Oh, you are getting a free boob job.” There is a lot of loss.
No comments:
Post a Comment