Meet Lisa,a 46-year-old woman who found herself on an unexpected journey of self-discovery following a breast cancer diagnosis.Planned for breast conservation surgery,circumstances led her to a different path undergoing mastectomy due to positive margins.
After her cancer treatment, Lisa faced a unique challenge that extended beyond physical healing.
The emotional consequences of the mastectomy triggered an identity crisis. She didn’t expect that the change in her surgery would make her feel so different about herself ,there were changes in her personality,her behaviour ,her habits and even her abilities .These feelings seeped into her work life, making it challenging for her to perform at her best despite having a supportive family and friends group.
Lisa found herself withdrawing from the social aspects of the workplace, avoiding conversations and interactions that she once enjoyed.
She even tried external breast prosthesis but physically she couldn’t adjust with its weight and friction,sometimes felt vulnerable and even had a sense of anxiety during social situation with the fear of the prosthesis shifting or becoming noticeable to others.
It was at her 2 years of remission during her planned follow up visit,her daughter Annie insisted they discuss this with their oncologist .
“Sir , I have tried all possible methods but still have discomfort ”she said.
“Is there any other solution?” she added.
“There is an option called breast reconstruction surgery for which you need to meet a plastic surgeon”answered the oncologist
Finally consultation with Plastic surgeon was scheduled and factors like various surgical options,patients expectation,fitness for surgery and expenses were discussed in detail.
Lisa was convinced and underwent breast reconstruction surgery.
Fast Forward a year later,Lisa feels great,is now a travel enthusiast,stays active among family &friends and recently got promoted to a senior zonal manager. It’s like she almost forgot she had breast cancer before because she’s so busy enjoying life!
Like Lisa many breast cancer survivors are not aware of the option of breast reconstruction surgery and are surrounded by a lot of myths associated with this procedure.
In fact to raise awareness on breast reconstruction surgery worldwide every Third Wednesday of breast cancer month of October is Celebrated as Breast reconstruction awareness day (BRA day).
In India particularly ABSI one of the largest association of breast surgeon recommends ‘post mastectomy breast reconstruction should be immediately performed’ and
BRASA (breast reconstruction and aesthetic surgeon association) is actively involved in creating awareness for reconstructive breast surgery.
To conclude:
It is important that every breast cancer patients must explore all options to restore body image (among staying flat,prosthesis and breast reconstruction surgery)and choose the one that suits best to their lifestyle.
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