Breast Reconstruction
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month
To this day, The Philippine Department of Health recognizes Cancer as a national health priority, because of its significant implications on individuals, families, and the overall health system.
A study conducted by the University of the Philippines’ Institute of Human Genetics, National Institutes of Health states that 189 out of every 100,000 Filipinos are diagnosed with Cancer. Furthermore, 4 Filipinos die of cancer every hour - amounting to 96 cancer patients every single day.
Among those diagnosed, for Filipino women, one of the most common forms of cancer identified is Breast Cancer.
With October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month, as the leader in the field of reconstructive and aesthetic surgery in the Philippines, our PAPRAS doctors are in solidarity with this global movement, highlighting the importance of education, research, and awareness on breast cancer.
In a two-part blog series, we will be sharing some important information regarding breast cancer to help raise awareness and inform patients about the various factors surrounding the disease. Furthermore, these two articles will also touch upon two specific procedures in relation to this - specifically Breast Reconstruction and Breast Augmentation.
Breast Cancer Facts & Statistics
The World Health Organization recognizes Breast Cancer as the most common cancer for women globally.
Data from the International Agency for Research on Cancer also shows that breast cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer among women.
3 out of 100 Filipina women may develop Breast Cancer in their lifetime.
In February 2017, the Philippine Obstetrical and Gynecological Society also released data showing that the Philippines had the highest prevalence of breast cancer among 197 countries.
At present, there is no singular known cause as to why men and women acquire breast cancer, what can be inferred is that breast cancer is often a result of damaged DNA cells, which then mutate consequently into cancer cells. The figures may be astounding, early detection and treatment are key in mitigating the severe implications of Breast Cancer.
Although there is no specific prevention to Breast Cancer, proper education and awareness as well as early detection are key to reducing its long-term risks.
Self-Examination and Early Detection
A good place to start to become breast aware is getting familiar with your breast anatomy. By educating yourself about the functions and parts of your breasts, you are putting yourself in a better position to spot any irregularities or red flags.
This is a very crucial part of maintaining good breast health, and we encourage all individuals to seek out relevant information as much as they can. This too, will be useful in conducting your own Breast Self-Examinations at home. All it takes is TLC: Touch, Look, Check.
Here is a quick video to show five important steps to conducting a self-examination.
If you begin to notice any irregularities or feel discomfort or pain, our PAPRAS doctors recommend seeking professional medical advice.
Getting diagnosed with breast cancer: Clinical Tests and Mammograms
Upon noticing certain red flags or warning signs, patients are recommended to undergo a Clinical Breast Exam to either determine or rule out the presence of cancer cells in the body. For this, your doctor may refer you to a General Surgeon. During this time, patients must go through various screening tests to detect the presence of cancer cells and to diagnose at which stage the cancer is in.
Undergoing a Mammogram is also a standard procedure in relation to diagnosis and detection. This procedure typically involves an x-ray procedure, which then allows your doctor or clinical specialist to examine the breast tissues.
Mammograms are very useful in detecting lumps or irregularities, which may not be immediately visible to the naked eye.
Today, aside from these standard procedures, we are also seeing a steady increase in popularity for BRCA Genetic testing, which often involves a blood test to examine whether or not you have any susceptibilities to cancer. Other forms of the test also involve collecting other samples, such as saliva, to examine your DNA.
Treating breast cancer: Modern Age of Breast Cancer Surgery
Treatment options vary based on the stage of the breast cancer. While new protocols and combined treatments to improve outcomes are widely available, the ultimate goal is to save as much normal breast tissue as possible to reduce the deformity.
Breast Reconstruction
Breast cancer is a life-altering disease that can also have adverse impacts on a patient’s overall emotional, and mental wellbeing.
Most common for women who have undergone a Mastectomy, Breast Reconstruction involves rebuilding of the breast area to create a natural looking shape, form, and appearance. Even for patients that do not undergo mastectomy, correcting slight breast deformities is also possible.
Following a Mastectomy, breast reconstruction can help improve a patient’s overall confidence and self-image.
Depending on your age, weight, and other health conditions, our PAPRAS doctors may recommend one of two common types of breast reconstruction procedures:
Implant reconstruction: this involves the insertion of implants under the skin and muscle to mimic the natural shape of the breasts.
Autologous reconstruction: for this procedure, muscle and fat are typically harvested from other parts of the body to reconstruct the breasts.
Patients are advised to set realistic expectations for what can be achieved through this type of procedure and it is always best to consult your PAPRAS doctors to gain a full understanding of what your options are.