Breast Cancer Awareness Month is about raising awareness for the detection and prevention of breast cancer. It is also a time of rigorous fundraising efforts for breast cancer research. Atalla Plastic Surgery | Skin + Laser is a proud supporter of Breast Cancer Awareness. Our practice also uses this month as an opportunity to educate our community about breast reconstruction, which is part of the journey for most women experiencing breast cancer.
The goal of breast reconstruction is to restore one or both breasts to near normal shape, appearance, symmetry and size following mastectomy or lumpectomy. New medical techniques and devices have made it possible for surgeons to create a breast that can come close in form and appearance to matching a natural breast. For Dr. F. Victor Atalla and Dr. Katie Durnen, breast reconstruction surgery is one of the most rewarding surgical procedures performed in our practice.
On October 20th, we will celebrate Breast Reconstruction Awareness (BRA) Day. Breast Reconstruction Awareness Day is an internationally recognized day that promotes awareness and access to post-cancer breast reconstruction surgery. The Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act of 1998 requires insurance companies to cover breast reconstructions in the setting of mastectomy, as well as symmetry procedures on the opposite breast. This was an enormous win for women facing the challenges of breast cancer.
With Breast Reconstruction Awareness Day around the corner, our goal is to educate our community and patients. Whether you are newly diagnosed or a survivor of ten-plus years, there are reconstruction options for you. There are an estimated 280,000 new cases of breast cancer in the United States each year, and approximately seventy percent of these women are unaware of their reconstructive options. We are here to assist you through the uncharted waters of cancer reconstruction.
“We want to educate and empower women to make the reconstructive decision that is best for them following a diagnosis of breast cancer,” says Dr. Katie Durnen, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon. Breast reconstruction may not be the right option for every woman, but for many it is a life-changing procedure. If you, or someone you know, have questions related to breast reconstruction options, have them give our office a call at 270-796-8960.
-submitted by Atalla Plastic Surgery | Skin + Laser
