Second to Nature

Category: Uncategorized

  • All About American Breast Care Prosthetics

    All About American Breast Care Prosthetics

    All About American Breast Care Prosthetics

    The Best Non-Surgical Reconstruction Option Following a Mastectomy

    For our second to final 2022 blog, we’re talking all about how the American Breast Care Prosthetics company works. When you come to Second To Nature for a breast prosthesis, we work to personalize and meet your needs. One of the ways in which we do that is offering ABC Prosthetics. Since 2003, they’ve provided breast care prosthesis to women worldwide by customizing the products from start to finish.

    ABC Prosthetics Starts Things Off with a Pre-Scanning Consultation

    When contemplating a custom prosthesis, you’ll start off with a pre-scanning consultation to review the options offered by ABC Prosthetics. At your pre-scanning consultation, a fitter will present and review everyone’s expectations about the prosthesis. You’ll discuss your color choices and payment options, plus receive details about the 3D scanning process during your pre-scanning consultation.

    At the 3D Scanning & Fitting, ABC Prosthetics Prepares Your Prosthesis

    After completing your pre-scanning consultation, you’ll schedule your 3D scanning appointment and a fitting session. Prior to undergoing the 3D scanning, your fitter will review the 3D scanning and fitting process with you. During the actual 3D scanning appointment, the fitter takes scans of your torso with a state-of-the-art, iPad-based instrument.

    What Happens After the 3D Scanning?

    After your 3D scanning, the Custom Design team of ABC Prosthetics in Marietta, GA, receives your files via a secure transmission. The ABC Prosthetics breast form designers use their CAD-based engineering system to create a custom breast prosthesis with exact specifications. When Second To Nature receives the ABC prosthetic, your fitter will set up a fitting appointment. You’ll be able to see and feel the finished ABC prosthetic for yourself at your fitting session. At the fitting, an Open Back, Closed Back, or (ACT) prosthesis goes in the bra you wore during 3D scanning.

    Choose from an Open Back, a Closed Back, or an ACT Custom Prosthesis

    The customized prosthesis options ABC Prosthetics offers include Open Back, Closed Back, and Advanced Cooling Technology (ACT.) Open Back options have a porous-silicone back and fit closely to torso’s contours. A Closed Back prosthesis has a completely sealed construction, allowing for easy maintenance. According to ABC’s website, ACT uses materials “that transfers energy from body heat into a cooler sensation against the skin.”

    Call Second To Nature at (540) 366-2711 for information about our services. We specialize in custom breast prosthesis and mastectomy education. Follow us on Facebook for updates. We are happy to share all about American Breast Care Prosthetics.

  • Don’t Navigate Breast Cancer Alone

    Don’t Navigate Breast Cancer Alone

    Don’t Navigate Breast Cancer Alone

    Seek Support from Others After You Receive a Breast Cancer Diagnosis

    Don’t navigate breast cancer alone. That’s our blog topic this month. After you receive a breast cancer diagnosis, you might feel like isolating and withdrawing. We, at Second To Nature, urge you not to do that! It’s crucial for your mental and emotional wellbeing to seek support from others when dealing with a breast cancer diagnosis. That means:

    Consider Participating in Individual Counseling and a Survivor Group

    Getting counseling has many benefits. Even if you feel like you’re handling your breast cancer diagnosis well, not every day is easy. When you get counseling, you can talk about your breast cancer diagnosis and feelings safely and openly. The same is true after surviving a breast cancer diagnosis; you can share triumphs and hope in a survivor group.

    What Benefits Come with Taking Part in a Survivor Group?

    First of all, in a survivor group, you’ll connect with breast cancer diagnosis survivors, to truly know you’re not alone. Secondly, you might learn something in a survivor group about coping with something with which you’re currently dealing. Finally, you could give hope in a survivor group to someone going through something you’ve experienced on your own journey.

    Add an Oncology Navigator to Your Support System of Friends & Family

    By now, we hope you see the advantage of having a strong support system when on a breast cancer diagnosis journey. Your counselor, members of your survivor group, plus friends and family should all make up that support group. Another addition to your support group should be an oncology navigator.

    What’s an Oncology Navigator & Why Should I Add One to My Support System?

    Oncology Navigators are trained laypeople. They help cancer patients make sure their care is still a priority – even with issues like childcare or job security concerns. Oncology Navigators also guide patients through the cancer health care system, helping them find the resources they need. Those dealing with a breast cancer diagnosis can count on their oncology navigator to maintain regular contact and consistent follow-up.

    Contact Second To Nature at (540) 366-2711  for information about our services. We specialize in custom breast prosthesis and mastectomy education. Follow us on Facebook  for updates. We are happy to explain further why it’s important you don’t navigate breast cancer alone.

  • The Basics of Metastatic Breast Cancer

    The Basics of Metastatic Breast Cancer

    The Basics of Metastatic Breast Cancer

    Second to Nature Explores Breast Cancer Spreading, or Metastasizing

    This month, Second To Nature’s explaining the basics of metastatic breast cancer. Physicians find breast cancer in the breast and/or nearby lymph nodes. In most cases, localized breast cancer comes with an early stage diagnosis, where it won’t spread or metastasize. In these early stages—stages zero through three—a lumpectomy and radiation work best to eliminate tumors. Catching breast cancer early can help prevent growths from becoming metastatic.

    What is Important to Know if Breast Cancer Metastasizes to Stage Four?

    If breast cancer spreads, or metastasizes, that likely means it’s reached stage four or later.  According to cancer.net, six percent of women in the U.S. have metastatic breast cancer when they’re initially diagnosed. Metastatic breast cancer symptoms and signs depend on where and how much the cancer has metastasized.

    Metastatic Breast Cancer Can Spread to Other Areas of the Body

    If breast cancer spreads, or metastasizes, it eventually impacts specific areas of the body. General signs that cancer has metastasized include loss of appetite, unexplainable weight loss, nausea, vomiting, and fatigue. Most commonly, metastatic, or stage four breast cancer impacts the bones, liver, lungs, and/or brain.

    Learn the Symptoms of Metastatic Breast Cancer

    When breast cancer spreads to the bones, symptoms include back, neck, or joint pain, swelling, and easily created bone fractures. Shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, and constant dry cough indicate metastasized breast cancer to the lungs. If cancer spreads to the liver, symptoms include skin and eye jaundice as well as belly pain or swelling. Symptoms of metastasized breast cancer to the brain include seizures, dizziness, personality changes, and loss of balance. Frequent headaches, confusion, and loss of vision also indicate stage four or metastatic breast cancer in the brain.

    Know the Types of Systemic Therapy to Treat Metastatic Breast Cancer

    Systemic therapy is when doctors use medication to eradicate breast cancer cells through the bloodstream to reach throughout the body. This method serves to treat stage four or metastatic breast cancer, but not necessarily cure it. Patients may receive one systemic therapy at a time or a combination, depending on how severe the cancer has metastasized. A common systemic therapy given to treat metastatic breast cancer is chemotherapy. Other examples of systemic therapy used when cancer spreads include hormonal therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.

     

    Let Second To Nature help you treat breast cancer by calling (540) 366-2711 We specialize in custom breast prosthesis and mastectomy education. Like us on Facebook to learn more about the basics of metastatic breast cancer.

  • How the BRCA2 Gene Affects Breast Cancer

    How the BRCA2 Gene Affects Breast Cancer

    The Basics of Metastatic Breast Cancer

    Second To Nature Knows – BRCA2 Means an Increased Risk of Cancer

    This month, we’re explaining how the BRCA2 gene affects breast cancer. BRCA2 is known as the Breast Cancer 2 gene. Every human being has inherited two duplicates of BRCA2 from each parent. Though normally a beneficial element to human DNA, those with harmful BRCA2 variants have increased risks for breast cancer. (Humans also inherit two BRCA1 genes from their parents. Though similar to BRCA2, BRCA1’s not associated with an increased risk of breast cancer, specifically.)

    Normally, BRCA2 Helps Make Proteins That Act as Tumor Suppressors

    BRCA2’s normally expressed in breast and other tissue cells. When functioning properly and not as a harmful variant, BRCA2 creates proteins that help repair damaged DNA. It also prevents cells from increasing and splitting in such a way they might create a cancerous tumor. According to cancer.gov, “… BRCA2 (genes) are sometimes called tumor suppressor genes because when they have certain changes, called harmful … variants …, cancer can develop.”

    BRCA2 Variants Relate to an Increased Risk of Breast Cancer

    Variants in the BRCA2 gene lead to the creation of nonfunctional versions of the BRCA2 protein in each cell. This means the protein isn’t as available to repair damaged DNA and, therefore, can’t suppress possible tumor growth. As such, variants in BRCA2 genes are related to an increased risk of breast cancer. Both men and women with these harmful variants in their cells have this increased risk. Individuals can also pass the variants from one generation to the next.

    Who Should Get Genetic Testing to Find Any Harmful BRCA2 Variants?

    Not every person who inherits a BRCA2 gene variant will develop breast cancer. Other factors, including environmental and lifestyle, plus additional genetics, contribute to cancer’s increased risk as well. That said, if you’re concerned about having a harmful BRCA2 variant, review your risk factors with your health care provider. If reviewing your risk factors concludes your concerns are valid, a genetic counselor referral can lead to genetic testing.

    Know What to Expect When Meeting with a Genetic Counselor About Testing

    Prior to getting genetic testing, the genetic counselor will likely do another risk assessment. The genetic counselor will also discuss the benefits and risks of genetic testing as a means to obtain informed consent. With increased risk for cancer confirmed, plus informed consent, the genetic counselor will order the appropriate BRCA2 variant genetic test.

    Reach out to Second To Nature at (540) 366-2711 for information about our services. We specialize in custom breast prosthesis and mastectomy education. Check us out on Facebook for more on how the BRCA2 gene affects breast cancer.

  • Different Types of Radiation to Treat Breast Cancer

    Different Types of Radiation to Treat Breast Cancer

    Different Types of Radiation to Treat Breast Cancer

    Second To Nature Wants You to Know All Radiation Treatment Options

    Did you know there are different types of radiation to treat breast cancer? That’s our blog topic this month. After getting a breast cancer diagnosis, you’ll likely go over your treatment choices with a doctor. Sometimes breast cancer needs aggressive treatments, like lumpectomy or mastectomy surgeries. For those women who undergo mastectomy surgery, Second To Nature is here to provide customized prosthetics. Many times, breast cancer treatment also includes targeted cancer-cell eradication like chemotherapy and radiation.

    Learn How Radiation Treatment to Eradicate Breast Cancer Works

    The two types of radiation treatment are external beam radiation and internal radiation. According to www.cancer.gov, radiation treatment damages cancer cells’ DNA, thus killing the cells’ or slowing their growth. When radiation damages cancer cells’ DNA, they stop dividing or they die. Upon the damaged cells’ death, they break down and the body removes them.

    The Most Common Breast Cancer Treatment is External Beam Radiation

    External beam radiation is a painless treatment option and the most common type of radiation to combat breast cancer. With this radiation treatment, a large machine directly aims beams of radiation at the breast cancer tumor site. While the machine moves, it can direct radiation to the tumor from different trajectories.

    Understand What to Expect with External Beam Radiation

    Prior to treatment, the radiation oncologist and radiation therapist might both take scans of the area needing external beam radiation. This is so they know at which area to aim the radiation beams. One of them will likely mark the area with tattoos or ink, which remain throughout the course of radiation treatment. The radiation therapists use the marks to line up the patient’s body. Consequently, this ensures the external beam radiation targets the precise area that needs treatment.

    Learn How Internal Radiation Treats Cancer

    Internal radiation, also known as brachytherapy, temporarily puts radiation into the tissue in which breast cancer is located. Internal radiation treatment works most effectively in early breast cancer stages and if the breast cancer’s just in one spot. It also works well if a patient has breast-conserving surgery.

    Know What Patients Can Expect with Internal Radiation

    With internal radiation, a device sends radioactive seeds or pellets into the body through small tubes or catheters. A device inflates at the end of the catheter, so that it stays in place through the entire treatment. The internal radiation treatment usually keeps the radioactive substance inside for approximately 10 to 20 minutes or longer. This usually occurs as outpatient procedures twice a day for five consecutive days. After the final course of treatment concludes, the radiation therapist removes the catheter, inflatable device, and radioactive substances.

    Call Second To Nature at (540) 366-2711 for information about our services. We specialize in custom breast prosthesis and mastectomy education. Follow us on Facebook for updates. We’d also be happy to explain more about the different types of radiation to treat breast cancer.

  • How and Where to Recycle Old Silicone Forms

    How and Where to Recycle Old Silicone Forms

    Different Types of Radiation to Treat Breast Cancer

    Any Unused, Expired, or Old Silicone Forms Don’t Need to Go to Waste

    Are you curious about how and where to recycle old silicone forms? Maybe a loved one who used them has now passed away. Perhaps you’ve changed sizes, the warranty has passed on your current prosthetic, or reconstruction has occurred. At Second To Nature, we recycle old silicone forms. You can also directly donate them to organizations like Dianne’s Mastectomy. Additionally, you can recycle old silicone forms into silicone oil. Industrial lubricants and playground mulch among other products include silicone oil.

    Bring Old Silicone Forms to Second To Nature for Recycling

    At Second To Nature, we’re in the business of empowering women to feel their best after breast surgery. We do that by offering After Breast Cancer (ABC) Custom Breast Prosthetics. In addition to customizing breast prosthetics, we also recycle old silicone forms and send them to organizations like Dianne’s Mastectomy.

    Donate Old Silicone Forms Via Dianne’s Mastectomy and Other Groups

    Dianne’s Mastectomy also provides breast prosthetics to cancer patients, like Second To Nature does. While we offer our services in the U.S., they specialize in providing post-mastectomy products in Canada. According to their website, their donated prosthetics program started when they realized “the need for post-mastectomy items in developing countries.”

    Helping the Plight of Women Diagnosed with Breast Cancer in Developing Nations

    In African villages, and other developing nations, the quality of the Western-made prosthetics we take for granted isn’t fathomable. Lack of access to reliable healthcare, private insurance, and government assistance only compounds this issue. Women in these countries with a breast cancer diagnosis often have to travel to a larger city for surgery. Afterwards, they return home without post-mastectomy care or products. Dianne’s Mastectomy seeks to resolve this problem.

    When You Donate Old Silicone Forms, You Help Women in Need Around the World

    Since 2001, Dianne’s Mastectomy has taken donated old silicone forms and recycled them for women who wouldn’t otherwise receive them. African countries that benefited from their donation program include Zambia, Malawi, Kenya, Uganda, Nairobi, Nigeria, and Ghana. Dianne’s Mastectomy has also donated old silicone forms to women in Costa Rica, Trinidad, Tobago, Jamaica, Cuba, Dominican Republic, and Mexico. If you have more questions about the organization or donations, contact Dianne’s Mastectomy at info@diannesmastectomy.com.

    In Addition to Dianne’s Mastectomy, You Can Donate to Other Groups

    Last month, we shared various breast cancer awareness charitable causes you might consider supporting. Showing support to groups like Beyond October and Bay Area Cancer Connection doesn’t always mean financially or via activity. Sometimes charitable causes also accept donated old silicone forms.

    Bay Area Cancer Connection

    The Bay Area Cancer Connection started in October of 1993. They accept donated gently used post-mastectomy products for patients facing breast cancer, as well as ovarian cancer. Donated items could include scarves, wigs, soft hats, books, and breast prosthetics, among other products. To find out if your old silicone form is okay to donate, you can call their helpline at (650) 326-6686.

    Beyond October

    Beyond October accepts gently-used prosthetics to refurbish and redistribute them to U.S. and Liberian breast cancer survivors free of charge. Their mission is helping women with little or no insurance get the supplies they need during recovery. On their website, they say, “a little prosthetic goes a long way to help a woman look and feel great!” For information about Beyond October’s old silicone form donation program send an email to beyondoctoberevents@gmail.com.

    Other Organizations That Accept Donated Old Silicone Forms Include:

    Old Silicone Forms Are Recycled Into Silicone Oil for Mulch, Lubricant

    If you can’t donate your old silicone forms to Dianne’s Mastectomy or other organizations, you can always recycle them. The medical industry as well as transportation, construction, culinary companies, and more use silicone quite often. Many breast forms manufactured in the U.S. usually include cross-linked silicone gels. When something made from this polymer becomes no longer usable, it can be recycled into substances like silicone oil.

    Silicone Oil 101

    Usually, recycled silicone gets melted down into silicone oil, often used for industrial lubricant, playground mulch, and more. In order to accomplish this safely, old silicone forms need to be sent to a specialized recycling company. After these companies collect the recycled silicone, machines grind it into small pieces. The silicone melts down in high temperature heating and goes through fine filtration. Eventually, it goes through polymerization and ultimately becomes silicone oil.

    Pros and Cons of Recycled Silicone

    One benefit of recycled silicone is silicone doesn’t lose much of its structural integrity when recycled. However, to recycle silicone is actually “down-cycling,” because it slowly degrades with each successive use. We recommend contacting your local recycling center to find out if they recycle old silicone forms. If they don’t, they might know of a place that does recycle old silicone forms locally or nearby.

    Call Second To Nature at (540) 366-2711 for information about our services. We specialize in custom breast prosthesis and mastectomy education. Follow us on Facebook for updates. We also offer a solution for how and where to recycle old silicone forms.

  • Examples of Some Breast Cancer Awareness Charitable Causes

    Examples of Some Breast Cancer Awareness Charitable Causes

    Examples of Some Breast Cancer Awareness Charitable Causes

    Second To Nature Supports Several Breast Cancer Awareness Groups

    Supporting breast cancer awareness charitable causes helps afflicted patients, their families, and everyone impacted by such a diagnosis. Many groups contribute towards research to find a cure and lobby congress for legislation that helps in that endeavor. While grants fund a lot of their efforts, most breast cancer awareness charitable causes depend on donor support. At Second To Nature, we strongly encourage customers to contribute to, if not get active with, breast cancer awareness groups. Some breast cancer awareness charitable causes worth considering include the:

    • American Cancer Society
    • Breast Cancer Research Foundation
    • National Breast Cancer Coalition
    • Young Survival Coalition

    The American Cancer Society Advocates for Breast Cancer Awareness

    According to their website, the American Cancer Society is “a nationwide, community-based … health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer …” Initially called the American Society for the Control of Cancer (ASCC,) they were founded in 1913 by ten doctors and five laypeople in New York City. To date, they have 250 regional offices, headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. They’ve invested over $147 million in cancer research, more than $104 million in prevention information and education, among other endeavors.

    The American Cancer Society offers vast amounts of information about colon and rectal, lung, prostate, skin, and other cancers, including breast cancer. They also welcome involvement with their organization via volunteering, donations, fundraisers, or signing up to receive regular emails.

    Help Find a Cure by Supporting the Breast Cancer Research Foundation

    The Breast Cancer Research Foundation started in 1993 with one simple mission: to prevent and cure breast cancer. According to their website, “the only way to achieve this goal is through research.” The Breast Cancer Research Foundation’s Scientific Advisory Board (SAB) works to understand the intricacies of cancer. They research prevention methods, why some are more susceptible to cancer, and more. Funding provided by donors and grants enables them to conduct their research and, ultimately, pursue a cure. You can also support the Breast Cancer Research Foundation by creating a fundraiser, purchasing from a Shop Pink partner, and more.

    The National Breast Cancer Coalition’s Mission is Action and Advocacy

    The National Breast Cancer Coalition (NBCC) is one of the nation’s largest and most influential cancer charities, with 60,000+ members. They work with scientists to create clinical trials in an effort to increase their quality, numbers, and patient participation. The NBCC has advocated over $3 billion in funding via the Department of Defense Breast Cancer Research Program since 1991. They accept donations and invite new members to join their cause and reach out to elected officials. From the inception of their organization, NBCC’s mission has been figuring out how to end breast cancer. Their initial goal was figuring this out by 2020 and, hopefully, eradicating the disease.

    What Happened After 2020?

    In 2010, the National Breast Cancer Coalition (NBCC) set a deadline: “end breast cancer by 2020.” While their 2020 deadline lapsed, the NBCC issued a report describing what they learned from setting this objective. In the report, they said, “… we are remarkably close to reaching our goal. Spurred by the renewed urgency of the deadline, we launched our boldest initiatives yet with remarkable results. An NBCC-led collaboration has developed a preventive vaccine, designed the protocol, and initiated the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) process in order to begin testing the vaccine in people.” According to this report, clinical trials of the vaccine were slated to begin in late 2020.

    Fight Diagnosis of Breast Cancer Early with the Young Survival Coalition

    In 1998, the first Young Survival Coalition meeting commenced. A group of young women, all whom received a breast cancer diagnosis before age 40, gathered in New York City. Each woman had personally experienced how the conversations, community, and research about breast cancer didn’t include young adults. Today, the Young Survival Coalition’s an international movement, hosting a three-day conference dedicated to young adults diagnosed with breast cancer.

    They also hold a virtual symposium, at which they offer a week of online workshops and meetups. Furthermore, they provide free educational resources, including a breast cancer navigator series—comprehensive guidebooks addressing treatment and survivorship phases. Anybody can contribute to the organization through donations. They also welcome support by hosting or attending a fundraising event, riding in the Tour de Pink, and more.

    Other Breast Cancer Awareness Charitable Causes Include

    You have your pick of so many breast cancer awareness charitable causes. Support the Young Survival Coalition, the National Breast Cancer Coalition, Breast Cancer Research Foundation, or the American Cancer Society. How? Hold a fundraiser. Get on their mailing lists. If they accept members, also consider joining. These organizations aren’t the only breast cancer awareness charitable causes worth supporting, though. You could also contribute time, money, or attention to:

    Beyond October

    The Breast Cancer Prevention Partners

    Lynn Sage Cancer Research Foundation

    The Dr. Susan Love Research Foundation

    Living Beyond Breast Cancer

    The Susan G. Komen Foundation

    Bay Area Cancer Connection

    Give Second To Nature a call at (540) 366-2711 for information about our services. We specialize in custom breast prosthesis and mastectomy education. Follow us on Facebook for updates and events. We’d also be happy to discuss more about breast cancer awareness charitable causes.

  • Why Should I Do a Pre-Surgery Consultation?

    Why Should I Do a Pre-Surgery Consultation?

    Why Should I Do a Pre-Surgery Consultation?

    It’s Vital to Know All of Your Surgical Options and Your Post-Op Choices

    If you’re wondering “why should I do a pre-surgery consultation,” that’s what we’re blogging about this month. After the initial shock that comes with a breast cancer diagnosis, the next step usually leads to treatment and after-care. Sometimes you can treat and eliminate breast cancer without surgical options, but that’s not usually the case. When diagnosed with breast cancer, a few reasons it’s important to have a pre-surgery consultation include:

    • Understanding each type of surgery
    • Weighing the pros and cons between a lumpectomy and mastectomy
    • Deciding if you want breast reconstruction or a prosthesis

    Having a Consultation Helps You Understand Every Type of Surgery

    Obviously, choosing to have a pre-surgery consultation means you’re considering surgery. When you have a pre-surgery consultation, the surgeon usually outlines the different types of surgery available to you. Three common surgical options involved with treating breast cancer include getting a lumpectomy, mastectomy, and an axillary lymph node dissection.

    Axillary Lymph Node Dissection

    An axillary lymph node dissection involves the surgeon removing lymph nodes from under the arm. Once removed, they’re given to a pathologist, who examines the lymph nodes for cancer cells. Cancer found in the sentinel lymph node could lead to another lymph node dissection surgery. How many lymph nodes get removed varies from patient to patient. If you have a tumor less than five centimeters, usually two or less sentinel lymph nodes with cancer get dissected. Often this includes getting a lumpectomy and radiation, Moreover, if you need to get a mastectomy, you might avoid an axillary lymph node dissection all together.

    Lumpectomy

    A lumpectomy dissects the tumor itself and a small margin of cancer-free tissue around it, leaving most of the breast. If you’re diagnosed with invasive cancer, oncologists generally recommend radiation therapy to the remaining breast tissue after surgery.  A lumpectomy is also known as breast-conserving surgery, a partial mastectomy, quadrantectomy, or a segmental mastectomy lumpectomy.

    Mastectomy

    A mastectomy is the surgical option that removes the entire breast. Often only one breast needs removed, however many women opt for double-mastectomies to stave off reoccurrence in their other breast.  Among the various styles include a skin-sparing mastectomy and a nipple-sparing mastectomy.

    Weigh Pros and Cons of a Lumpectomy vs. Mastectomy at a Consultation

    So, between a lumpectomy and a mastectomy, which is better for you? That’s another reason to have a pre-surgery consultation. Your surgeon can help you weigh the pros and cons of each surgical option.

    Lumpectomy Pros and Cons

    A lumpectomy especially benefits younger patients and patients with larger tumors. If you’re newly diagnosed and have BRCA1, BRCA2, CHEK2, or ATM gene mutations, a lumpectomy might be the better surgery.  While these pros could tip the scales in favor of a lumpectomy, this surgical option has a few disadvantages. At a minimum, lumpectomy patients usually go through five weeks of radiation. There’s also a slightly higher risk of developing a local cancer recurrence after a lumpectomy.

    Mastectomy Pros and Cons

    Though more invasive than a lumpectomy surgery, a mastectomy surgery definitely eliminates breast cancer, because of the complete breast dissection. Usually, mastectomy patients don’t need radiation after surgery. If there’s a cancer recurrence, mastectomy patients generally only have radiation to the affected area without further surgery. Furthermore, if you have the BRCA1, BRCA2, CHEK2, or ATM gene mutations, you still have the option of a nipple-sparing mastectomy. The major disadvantage of this surgical option is losing your breast completely. In the case of a mastectomy surgery, you can opt for breast reconstruction or a prosthesis.

    Decide Between Breast Reconstruction or Prosthesis Post Consultation

    During your pre-surgery consultation, you might also discuss post-surgery decisions. Will you need radiation, chemotherapy, or both? What about recovery—should you go to a rehabilitation facility after surgery or can you get in-home care? If you conclude getting a mastectomy as your surgical option, a post-surgery decision could include choosing breast reconstruction or prosthesis.

    Things You Should Know If You Need a Breast Reconstruction

    If breast construction seems the best option for you, you should discuss with the surgeon both the benefits and disadvantages. Ultimately, the most significant advantage of breast reconstruction is you permanently regain your breast shape. That said, a reconstructed breast is not a perfect match or substitute for a natural breast. Usually, tissue used in the reconstruction comes from another area of the body and often looks different after surgery.

    If You Don’t Need or Want Reconstruction, Consider a Custom Breast Prosthesis

    So, you’ve weighed the post-surgery options and decided you don’t want breast reconstruction, but do want symmetry on your torso. There’s another way to achieve that … a custom breast prosthesis. At Second to Nature, we offer a wide variety of products that create a natural silhouette for women with breast asymmetry. We have the largest selection of post-breast surgery fashions, accessories, and products in the greater Roanoke, VA, area. Give us a call to schedule a consultation today!

    Call Second To Nature at (540) 366-2711 for information about our services. We specialize in custom breast prosthesis and mastectomy education. Follow us on Facebook for updates. We’d also be happy to further answer the question, “Why should I do a pre-surgery consultation?”

  • What If You’re Unhappy with Your Reconstruction?

    What If You’re Unhappy with Your Reconstruction?

    What If You’re Unhappy with Your Reconstruction?

    Second To Nature Offers Some Alternatives That Could Make You Happy

    This month, our blog answers the question: What if you’re unhappy with your reconstruction? In November 2020, we blogged about choosing the surgery that’s right for you. We recommended taking time to research your options and consulting a plastic surgeon. You should also discuss your treatment plan with loved ones. It’s important that you also find out your family history, to provide insight into previously successful treatment outcomes.

    If, ultimately, your breast reconstruction leaves you less than satisfied, you can pursue alternatives. Depending on the kind of reconstructive surgery you had, other surgeries may prove more satisfactory. Of course, there’s always opting for a customized breast prosthesis by Second To Nature!

    The ABC Custom Breast Prosthesis Offered by Second To Nature

    At Second To Nature, we offer the ABC Custom Breast Prosthesis. This state-of-the-art technology uses 3D scanning to give designers clear images of your shape. We specifically create the prosthesis for every customer’s body size and skin pigmentation. We replicate the prosthesis shape based on your remaining breast and lifted in a bra. For a bilateral mastectomy, we create a breast form. The prosthesis covers and replaces the areas specific to what’s missing. It’s worn directly against the wall of your torso area.

    How The Process Works, Step-by-Step

    1. First, a fitter will discuss the benefits of custom breast prosthesis with you at a pre-scanning consultation. The fitter will take the time to help you decide whether or not it’s something to pursue. This fitter will work with you from beginning to end. By the end of this first meeting, you should fully understand what to expect. Your fitter will also go over your color choices, payment options, and the scanning process.
    2. When you come in for your personal scan session, your fitter will re-explain the process, then begin. The fitter will start out by taking reference images, then scan your chest with an iPad-based, 3D scanner. This technology is designed with accuracy to ensure a perfectly customized prosthesis.
    3. Next, after your scan session, the American Breast Care Custom Design team, in Marietta, GA, will electronically receive your files. With your information and their CAD-based engineering technology, they’ll start creating your customized prosthesis.
    4. Finally, upon receiving your completed ABC Custom Breast Prosthesis, we’ll schedule your personal fit appointment. Your first fit be in the bra you wore when scanned. The customized prosthesis should fit to your personal shape. You’re not limited to that bra, though! We’d love it if you’d try different styles to go with your new prosthesis.

    Clients Use Custom Breast Prosthesis for Various Reasons

    A prosthesis isn’t solely beneficial after complete breast reconstruction. Even if you had a lumpectomy or other breast-conserving surgery, you could get a custom prosthesis. The extent and place of the removed tissue varies quite a bit. Regardless of the type of surgery, a custom breast prosthesis is worth considering. It works for partial, simple, and radical mastectomies, plus other kinds of breast-conserving procedures.

    Try Out Custom Breast Prosthesis for Yourself

    Many women choose our custom prosthesis over reconstructive surgery. Sometimes, they use them as way to try out reconstruction. Other times, they use it in place of surgery. Even ladies who’ve had reconstruction may simply want to look more symmetrical. So, they often choose custom breast prosthesis.

    Reconstructive Surgery Options

    If you’re not completely satisfied with your breast reconstruction, you could talk to the members of your medical team about it. With your surgeon and other team members, you can discuss what steps you might take to improve how you look and feel about the reconstruction. According to http://cancer.org, lumpectomy reconstruction may include lipofilling or dermal matrix products. Total breast reconstruction options include using implants, as well as your own body tissues (flap procedures.)

    Breast Implants, Flap Procedures, or Both?

    Breast implants include flexible silicone shells filled with saline or silicone gel. A tissue flap procedure takes tissue from other body parts like the belly, back, legs, or posterior to reconstruct the shape of the breast. If your reconstructive surgery was one or the other, you could combine implants with flap breast reconstruction. When you’re happy with the breast shape, you can reconstruct the nipple and areola post-surgery with tattooing and fat grafting.

    What Might Happen After Getting Your Breast Implant or Flap Procedure

    After getting breast implants, it’s possible you might change your mind about their size. If you do, a breast implant exchange might be a viable option. Also, even if you didn’t get a flap procedure done, you might end up requiring that, as well. Any post-op procedure might also require fat grafting, breast reshaping, or scar revision. Whatever your concerns or questions after your breast reconstruction, talk to your medical team. If the conversation you have with your team doesn’t satisfy you, you’re entitled to a second opinion. A second opinion from another, qualified surgeon could help ensure that you understand all of your viable options.

    Call Second To Nature at (540) 366-2711 to find out about our custom breast prosthesis. Our services also include mastectomy education. Like and follow us on Facebook for updates. We can help answer the question, “What if you’re unhappy with your reconstruction?”

  • 50 Ways to Take a Break From Breast Cancer

    50 Ways to Take a Break From Breast Cancer

    50 Ways to Take a Break From Breast Cancer

    Sometimes, You Just Need to Distract Yourself and Take a Break

    Believe it or not, there are at least 50 ways to take a break from breast cancer. Last month, Second To Nature shared examples of self-care while undergoing breast cancer treatment. Self-care can range from a healthy diet and exercise to a balance of good sleep and trying to lower stress. One element of self-care could also include distractions from the turmoil of your cancer journey.

    Why Should I Take a Break?

    According to cancer.net, “engaging in… activity gives (cancer patients) a sense of accomplishment and provides a distraction from daily worries.” When you take a break from breast cancer, you’re unburdening yourself from the stresses that go with it. The National Center for Biotechnology Information published a study in 2010 about the benefits of participating in activities. The study found that “enjoyable leisure activities … are associated with psychosocial and physical measures relevant for health and well-being.”

    How Can I Take a Break?

    Taking a break from breast cancer could include participating in community activities, volunteering, doing outdoor activities, or trying indoor ideas. You can also take time alone to recharge and focus your mind. It’s important to spend family time, too, both indoors and outside. When you care for others, you can distract yourself from difficulties, too.

    Time Alone

    “Me-time,” or time alone, is the most basic form of self-care. If you like the outdoors, take time alone to walk by yourself, or go hiking. You can spend time alone inside by finishing a crossword, word search, or sudoku puzzle. Consider these options for spending time alone also:

    • Watch and participate in an online or video-recorded aerobics routine
    • Lift weights at the gym
    • Try yoga or Pilates
    • Enjoy a pamper-fest. Have a massage, have your hair and nails done, and treat yourself to new clothes or shoes
    • Do some creative writing, whether it be poetry, fan fiction, or even a novel
    • Keep a personal, hand-written, or typed journal
    • Create your own blog
    • Start a collection of stamps, coins, memorabilia, seashells, comic books, toys, or more.
    • Make a budget, or try investing
    • Learn something new, maybe a language, a musical instrument, or another skill. Take advantage of Pinterest and YouTube, or enroll in online classes.

    Family Time

    For indoor ideas, you can spend family time researching your genealogy. Make it fun, and work together to create a family tree. You could also bring a pet home! Maybe you’d like to binge-watch TV shows for family time, by streaming, or on DVDs and Blu-ray. You can also:

    • Hold an at-home movie marathon
    • Put together a jigsaw puzzle
    • Throw a “just because” party
    • Take a “staycation”

    Outdoor activities for family time include traveling around your state, the country, or the world together. There’s also:

    • Exploring where you live by making up and doing a local scavenger hunt.
    • Going camping, even if it’s only in your backyard.
    • Having a family cookout or barbeque.

    Community Activities

    Help plan community activities like street fairs, festivals, and celebrations. Other community activities include:

    • Joining or forming a wine-tasting, book, or social club.
    • Hosting or attending a community-wide board or card game night.
    • Taking part in entertainment-based community activities such as choir, band, or theater groups.

    Care for Others

    A simple way to show how you care for others is by cooking and baking for your family, friends, and neighbors. Other acts of kindness and care for others could be:

    • Donating your time by volunteering at a local hospital or nursing home.
    • Being a Big Brother or Sister, either with the named organization or just to someone who needs one.
    • Helping out at an animal shelter, or doing volunteer pet sitting.
    • Finding a pen pal. Write letters to prisoners, nursing home residents, and men and women in the military.

    Outdoor Activities

    Fresh air and being outside is good for overall health. Outdoor activities that are good for taking a break from breast cancer might include:

    • Playing low-impact sports, such as swimming, golf, biking, rowing, or kayaking.
    • Checking out museums and art galleries.
    • Doing some gardening, landscaping, or other at-home outdoor activities.
    • Going fishing, trapping, or hunting.
    • Packing a picnic meal and eating it at a nearby park.
    • Taking up stargazing or metal detecting.

    Indoor Ideas

    Sometimes, the weather won’t permit doing outdoor activities. Maybe, doing stuff outside isn’t your thing. If you’re not much for doing outdoor activities, here are some indoor ideas:

    • Spend time alone playing virtual reality or computer games.
    • Watch online documentaries by yourself or with your family.
    • Enjoy making a variety of crafts.
    • Have fun with adult coloring books and colored pencils, markers, or crayons.
    • Paint landscapes or other images on canvas.
    • Try your hand at knitting, crocheting, or sewing.
    • Learn and implement relaxation exercises.
    • Take time alone to listen to podcasts and audio books.
    • Record your own podcast, or start a YouTube channel.
    • Read printed or digital books.
    • Use family time to sort and organize photos.
    • Scrapbook memories and milestone events.
    • Reorganize and sift through closets and cupboards.
    • Plan home renovations or redecorating efforts.

    Call Second To Nature at (540) 366-2711 for information about our custom breast prosthesis and mastectomy education services. Like us on Facebook, and follow our page for updates. We’d also be glad to discuss with you about the 50 ways to take a break from breast cancer.