Mastectomies can be some of the most traumatic operations anyone can undergo. In the first instance, these are life-saving operations to stave off cancer and in some cases further treatment is needed, especially if the disease has spread to the lymph nodes. Secondly, the psychological effects of the removal of a significant part of one’s body can be very profound.
For that reason, many women opt for a post-op reconstruction. An implant can help restore the appearance of the breast, which for many is something they will be very happy with.
To achieve the best results, it is important for patents living in or around the capital to use the services of the best plastic surgeons in London, who will have extensive experience of undertaking this operation and delivering the best results.
It is not a simple operation and it is not hard to find stories of those who have had implants and been left feeling unhappy with the results.
For one thing, it will unavoidably feel a bit different to a natural breast. In a recent TV documentary about her own experience of cancer, mastectomy and reconstruction, British TV presenter Julia Bradbury actually showed the results of her op on screen, saying of the results: “It just looks like a big lumpy boob” and that she cannot feel it at present, although sensation may return in time.
While that may not sound like a ringing endorsement for a silicone implant, it is important to contextualise this; the alternative is to leave a flat chest, perhaps with a prosthetic in a bra, which will also, of course, not feel like a real breast.
The issue of scarring can also be a key matter for some. For example, American broadcaster Hoda Kotb recently spoke of being “horrified” with her scars after having a mastectomy and reconstruction and suffered with body image issues for a time.
It is worth noting, however, that a mastectomy itself will leave a scar and Ms Kotb admitted that in time she came to terms with the marks she was left with from the operation.
Speaking on a TV show in the US, she said she had been helped by another woman, an aunt of her friend, who had undergone the same operation who was happy to show her own scars to her. The lady, named Harriet, helped change her attitude.
“It was a very poignant and moving moment for me. It was a life-changer,” she admitted, adding: “Now I look at my scars, and I’m happy.”
While scarring will be the result of any op, a really good surgeon will minimise this, while also carrying out skilled work to ensure that the implant provides the right shape and look, coming as close as possible to restoring the appearance and feel of what was there previously.
There is no doubt the whole procedure can be emotionally challenging as it occurs in the middle of a stressful time; but with the best surgery, the results can leave you with something you feel very comfortable with in due course.
