After Breast Surgery





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Studies tell us that an estimated 183,000 women will have breast cancer surgery this year alone. The good news is, with proper treatment, the majority of these women will go on to lead full, active lives. If breast cancer has touched your life or the life of someone you love, you know the road to recovery holds many challenges. A positive outlook can help smooth the way. There is no greater comfort than the support of family, friends and physicians. To help you meet some of the demands, Coloplast, the maker of Amoena and Discrene brand breast forms, offers this information to give you an overview of the options a women has following breast surgery, as well as suggestions on coping with new physical and emotional demands.
Rogsbert F. Phillips,
M.D., F.A.C.S.

POST-SURGERY CHOICES
Women of all ages are discovering there are many ways to restore their appearance and renew their self-confidence following breast surgery. Your decision is a very personal one. And Although you should consult with your physician, the final choice is up to you. It is a good idea to learn about your options, including reconstruction and external breast forms, before surgery. Your doctor can discuss the various reconstruction possibilities, while local breast cancer support groups and specialty retail fitters are an excellent source of information on breast prostheses.

BREAST PROSTHESIS
A breast prosthesis, also called a breast form, is worn externally to closely simulate the look of a natural breast and help restore the body's balance. This safe, non-surgical option is the choice about 80 percent of women make following breast surgery. In working with thousands, Coloplast breast form designers and certified fitters have reported that a weighted silicone breast form best helps the body maintain its balance which may prevent back, neck and posture problems. In addition, weighted silicone breast forms come in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors to accommodate various body types, breast shapes and surgeries. A traditional beast form is usually worn in a specially fitted postmastectomy bra with a stitched pocket to hold the form in place.

ATTACHABLE BREAST FORMS
Plus breast forms from Amoena and Discrene are another option. These breast forms attach directly to the chest wall with a medical-grade, skin-friendly adhesive. Because the form's weight is supported by the chest wall, attachable breast forms help eliminate strain on the shoulders and back. The form moves with the body, allowing you full freedom of movement and complete confidence to pursue activities like tennis, golf, jogging and swimming. An attachable breast form is so natural it can be worn with a designer bra, postmastectomy bra, and even braless.

BREAST RECONSTRUCTION

Another choice for women who have had a mastectomy is surgical breast reconstruction. There are two types of procedures-implants and tissue transfer. The first uses an artificial implant that is placed under the chest muscle to recreate a breast. The second procedure, called tissue transfer, actually involves moving tissue from another area of the body to the chest wall. The type of mastectomy, cancer treatments, breast size and expectations all influence the plastic surgeon's recommendations. Before deciding on this option, it is essential to learn the pros and cons by thoroughly discussing them with your doctor.

THE FITTING EXPERIENCE

About six to eight weeks following surgery, you are ready to shop for a breast form. To find a breast form and postmastectomy bra that is right for you, visit one or more retailers in your area who specialize in postmastectomy products. Look for a shop with a warm, caring environment and a certified fitter who is sensitive to your feelings. She is specially trained to help you choose a breast form that is as close as possible to your own breast. the fitter should offer a private area where you can talk about and try on bras and breast forms; an array of breast forms in various sizes, shapes and colors; and a good-fitting, comfortable bra with pockets designed to hold the breast form. When you start wearing your new external breast form, you will experience a more balanced self, both physically from the weight of the form, and emotionally by a return of self-confidence.

INSURANCE COVERAGE

Most private insurers offer some or all coverage for breast prostheses and postmastectomy bras. It's a good idea to check your coverage before you file your claim so you know exactly what to expect.

PHYSICAL NEEDS

After surgery, a healthy lifestyle including proper nutrition and gentle exercise can enhance your recovery. It's important to consult your physician for advice. Ask when you may begin exercising to regain strength and motion in the affected area and what exercises are appropriate. Consider these health-wise tips:

Begin slowly - Your doctor can recommend the proper movements to help strengthen your arm and chest area. As you get stronger, consider low-impact aerobics.
Walk on a daily basis - It's a great way to revive your body. As you feel better, you can increase the distance of your walk.
Slowly get back into your old routine - If swimming, running or some other form of exercise was part of your lifestyle before surgery, try to reintroduce it gradually into your daily regimen.

EMOTIONAL NEEDS
Perhaps even more critical than your physical needs will be taking care of your emotional needs following breast cancer treatment. It's essential to keep your spirits up. Here are some ideas that may help:
Keep a diary - One way to help you get rid of negative feelings is to write them down. Allow yourself 15 minutes a day to write down your thoughts and experiences.
Read about others' experiences - You will find consolation in the fact that you are not alone in your experience and can find out how other women have coped successfully. Many breast cancer support groups, hospitals and local libraries can recommend a reading list.
Join a support group - There are many organizations that can help you on your road to recovery. Speaking to other women who share your experience is an excellent way to maintain your emotional health.

LYMPHEDEMA
Women who have had breast cancer surgery are at risk of developing lymphedema, an accumulation of lymphatic fluid causing swelling in the arms. However, with proper education and care, lymphedema can be avoided or kept well under control.
The National Alliance of Breast Cancer Organizations offers these guidelines:

1. Keep the arm moisturized; avoid skin irritations such as overexposure to the sun, cuts and insect bites.
2. Avoid heavy lifting, over-the-shoulder handbags and constricting clothing and jewelry.
3. Refuse injections or having blood drawn in the affected limb.
4. Avoid saunas, steam rooms or sunburns.
5. Maintain a recommended exercise program.

In the early stages of lymphedema, simply elevating the affected arm above the heart may provide some relief. In other cases, a program outlined by a qualified physical or occupational therapist may be necessary.