VIDEO
Louisiana Breast Cancer Survivor Uses Law to Help Patients
Should I have reconstruction? Will it help with my sexual self-esteem?
Surgical reconstruction is a personal choice. Some women do not mind having only one breast, whereas others do. Consider your feelings about the issue before embarking on consultation after consultation; having reconstructive surgery for the wrong reasons can be harmful.
Sometimes if women feel as if they are “damaged,” surgery may help them recover from the anxieties about the cancer. Others may feel that surgery will help to restore a failing relationship or to placate the distressed partner who may feel as if their partner is disfigured.
Think carefully about surgery and your goals about reconstruction. Sometimes results can be less than favorable; sometimes scars can be red and irritated, and contractures of breasts do occur. If you are concerned about nipples, surgical options, such as permanent tattooing and attachable prostheses, can help.
Magnolia Myrick:
True, surgery offers no guarantees, neither physical nor emotional, so be real clear about what your goals and intentions are. On the other hand, there are worse things than having your medical insurance pay for a great breast reconstruction. I would have not the slightest qualm about that.
