Breast Reconstruction: A Demand for Team Approach

Case Scenario: Breast cancer patient sees a surgeon to biopsy a breast with possible cancer. Surgeons may present one of several approaches to the biopsy may be diverse in terms of the methodology, incision and depth of excised breast tissue. Yet, the question may remain- does this surgeon consider the aesthetic outcome? The idea of putting your life into the hands of a surgeon is just that. Our brains actually suppress fear that is associated with life threatening conditions and surgery. Aesthetics may not be in our minds until long after the biopsy is performed.

Enter Plastic Surgeon. Should a plastic surgeon be involved in the biopsy plan and ultimate treatment plan for breast cancer, aesthetics become a greater priority for the patient, lending the ability for the patient to still make timely decisions but consider the aesthetics in a timely fashion as well.

The American Society for Plastic Surgeons recently announced that plastic surgeons have made scientific advancements in the treatment for breast cancer through coordinated team approaches between plastic surgeons, radiologists, pathologists, general oncologic surgeons, and medical oncologists. Breast reconstruction is plastic surgery and there should be no reason why breast cancer patients cannot have an integrated approach to their healthcare with plastic surgeons.

Ninety eight percent of elective mastectomy patients would repeat the procedure, if necessary, according to a recent study published in the Journal of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Yet, it important for patients that require biopsies or breast cancer treatment seek out board certified plastic surgeons that perform plastic surgery at fully accredited facilities. In addition, breast cancer patients may request from other doctors involved in their care that a plastic surgeon be involved in the biopsy and treatment plan for breast cancer.

In the end, a proactive approach with the involvement of a plastic surgeon in breast surgery may provide a great advantage to patients with breast cancer.

Have you or someone you know been considering a breast augmentation? If so, please contact a Board Certified Surgeon to be better informed of your options.