Can Breast Implants Improve Quality of Life for Cancer Survivors?

Breast cancer can be particularly challenging for those who undergo a total mastectomy, which involves removing the entire breast, including the breast tissue, areola, and nipple. This procedure can sometimes cause more emotional and psychological trauma than the cancer itself.

Impact of Total Mastectomy on Women:

Many women report feeling less confident and experiencing lower self-esteem after a mastectomy. They often feel less attractive and feminine, which can lead to psychological issues and strained relationships. This sense of loss can result in withdrawal from social and family life, and in severe cases, lead to depression and even suicidal thoughts.

Coping with Mastectomy:

1. Maintain a Positive Attitude: Focus on the fact that a mastectomy has protected your life from cancer.
2. Communicate with Your Partner: Open communication can help maintain a healthy sex life.
3. Healthy Lifestyle: Eating well and staying active can boost your self-esteem.
4. Consider Breast Augmentation or Prosthesis: These options can help restore your body image and confidence.

Breast Augmentation/Reconstruction Surgery:

Breast reconstruction involves creating a breast shape using an artificial implant, tissue from another part of the body (autologous reconstruction), or both. This can restore balance by replacing skin, breast tissue, and the nipple.

Reconstruction Options:

1. Implants: Can be done immediately after mastectomy or delayed until after recovery. Implants are made of silicone and can contain saline or silicone gel. While they rebuild the breast shape, they don’t restore sensation.
2. Tissue Flap Procedures: Use tissue from the abdomen, back, thighs, or bottom to reconstruct the breast.
3. Potential Side Effects: Include infection, pain, itching, numbness, or fluid collection.

Alternative to Reconstruction – Breast Prosthesis:

A breast prosthesis is an artificial breast form that provides a natural shape after a mastectomy. They are available in two main types:

1. Lightweight Models: Ideal for post-surgery recovery, warm weather, and swimming.
2. Silicone Prostheses: More realistic for everyday wear, available in asymmetrical and symmetrical shapes.

Custom-made prostheses: These are tailored to match your body contours and color, though they are more expensive.

Mastectomy Bras: Special bras with pockets to hold the prosthesis in place and support its weight.

Does Reconstruction Improve Quality of Life?

Studies have shown significant benefits:

• Satisfaction: 83% of women reported increased satisfaction with their breasts.
• Psychosocial Well-being: 88% saw dramatic improvements.
• Sexual Well-being: 81% reported significant improvement.

Another study with 48 patients found enhancements in:

• Satisfaction with breasts and overall outcome
• Psychosocial and sexual well-being
• Physical well-being
• Satisfaction with the care process

Conclusion:

Breast reconstruction or prosthesis can significantly improve the quality of life for many breast cancer survivors. It’s essential to discuss these options with your healthcare provider to make an informed decision that best suits your needs.

References:

https://www.hindawi.com/journals/ijso/2011/132461

https://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/reconstruction-surgery/breast-reconstruction-options/breast-reconstruction-using-implants.html

https://burgessplasticsurgery.com/breast-implants-improve-quality-of-life-study-shows

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2685365