This week's artwork was donated by Sharon, a pediatric cancer patient who received treatment at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia . Every year, a significant number of women with breast cancer must undergo mastectomy in order to treat their malignancy effectively. The breast can play an important role in the self- image of all women. To some women, the loss of a breast due to cancer may mean the loss of part of their identity. Reconstruction of the amputated breast can be the beginning of a physical and emotional restoration to many women.
Breast cancer affects all women differently.
Every woman should be afforded the choice of undergoing reconstruction as part of her breast cancer treatment, and should be provided with the adequate facts to make an informed decision. The benefits of reconstruction should be discussed soon after the diagnosis of cancer. Today, almost any woman who has her breast removed due to cancer may be able to have it rebuilt through reconstructive surgery. In fact, there are several reconstructive options available after mastectomy. Your general surgeon and plastic surgeon should make an individualized recommendation based upon your age, health, goals, anatomy, disease stage, tissue type, and treatment options.