A new report in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery has examined recent advances in plastic surgery that now allow breast cancer patients to undergo reconstructive surgery.
According to co-author Dr Sumner Slavin, a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (Asps), reconstructive breast surgery can have a beneficial psychological impact on cancer patients who have undergone lumpectomy or breast conservation surgery.
Although only part of the breast is removed in these procedures, patients are still left with a breast that may appear disfigured or uneven.
However, the report notes that recent advances mean women can now have their breast remodelled, resulting in a more natural looking breast.
Dr Slavin commented: "Many women don't know the full scope of their reconstructive options or are intimidated to ask.
"For breast cancer patients, even though they are living through the anguish of cancer, there are reconstructive procedures that will improve their quality of life and reduce the negative long-term impact of the disease and its treatment."
© Adfero Ltd
Cancer care news : 29/04/2008
