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  • Breast Cancer Prevention News and Updates From Second to Nature

    Breast Cancer Prevention News and Updates From Second to Nature

    Breast Cancer Prevention News and Updates From Second to Nature

    Understanding Breast Cancer Risks to Raise Prevention and Awareness

    Here are some important breast cancer prevention news and updates from Second to Nature. We serve the Roanoke, Virginia, region with after breast cancer surgery fashions and other apparel for post-mastectomy wear. It is part of our mission to share some of the latest information to help our community.

    It is good to know that in spite of breast cancer prevalence, there are efforts to prevent breast cancer. Preventing breast cancer lowers the number of new cancer cases in our overall population. In short, breast cancer prevention helps reduce the number of deaths and the burden of cancer on all of us.

    Some of the better-known cancer risk factors are:

    • A personal history of breast cancer or benign (noncancer) breast disease
    • Dense breast tissue
    • Drinking alcohol
    • Inherited risk of breast cancer
    • Obesity
    • Older age
    • Radiation therapy to the breast or chest
    • Reproductive history resulting in greater exposure to estrogen
    • Taking hormone therapy for symptoms of menopause

    We know cancer, in itself, is not a single disease. Rather, it is group of related diseases. The cancer occurs as a response of our genetics, lifestyle, or environment. We can understand that our risk for cancer is a combination of these assorted factors.

    Finding the Right Balance of Risks and Protective Factors

    In short, we can call anything that increases our chance of developing cancer a risk. On the other side of the coin, anything that decreases our chance is a ‘cancer protective factor.’ As a person aware of these risks, we can avoid many of them. However, we cannot avoid each and every one of the risks.

    Consider the examples of smoking and genetic risks. We may choose to avoid cancer risk by not smoking. Genetic risk is one risk factor that we may not be able to avoid as a matter of choice. One preventative measure we can all choose to do is regular exercise and a healthy lifestyle. Although we may be successful in being healthy, it may not prevent all types of cancer. This is also why regular breast checks and mammograms are so crucial to health and wellness.

    These are known protective factors for breast cancer:

    • Aromatase inhibitors and inactivators
    • Estrogen-only hormone therapy after hysterectomy
    • Getting enough exercise
    • Ovarian ablation
    • Reproductive history resulting in less exposure to estrogen
    • Risk-reducing or prophylactic mastectomy
    • Selective estrogen receptor modulators
    • Taking estrogen-only hormone therapy after hysterectomy, selective estrogen receptor modulators, or aromatase inhibitors and inactivators

    Different Ways to Prevent Cancer Under Study

    Researchers continue to study different ways to prevent cancer. This is one of the more positive pieces of news we can share. This continuing quest continues due to the ongoing support of many cancer survivors and their families.

    For example, it is unclear whether such things as hormonal contraceptives or other environmental chemicals have a role in breast cancer risk. Some studies show that certain factors have little or no effect on breast cancer risk. These continuing studies and clinical trials, and their results, are vital to our knowledge base.

    Cancer Prevention Clinical Trials

    As we mention above, researchers use cancer prevention clinical trials to study ways to prevent cancer. These trials are science-based and give us all solid evidence of what does work, what does not, and what has little effect. The growing evidence of what works to prevent cancer is proof “positive” that there are breast cancer treatments that work.

    Because so many cancer survivors have been successful with various treatments, some of them are worthy of a deeper look. These include:

    • Changing lifestyle or eating habits
    • Avoiding things known to cause cancer
    • Taking medicine to treat a precancerous condition or to keep cancer from starting
    • Risk-reducing surgery

    As we understand more about cancer and prevention options, an increasing number of those most at risk can feel hopeful. A cancer diagnosis in the past was perceived as a kind of death sentence. Today, with so much more being done with research and awareness to promote prevention, surviving is now viewed as achievable.

    Doing Our Part for Breast Cancer Prevention

    Everyone can do their part to maintain awareness of the risks and new discoveries related to breast cancer prevention. The American Cancer Society dedicates many articles on breast cancer studies and related topics. Still, many Americans seek additional support relating to breast cancer. The ACS provides the Reach To Recovery program, where volunteers help patients cope with treatment, side effects, and more.

    The staff at Second to Nature is also here as a local resource. Give us a call with any questions you may have for yourself or a loved one. Together, we can all support each other on breast cancer prevention on every step of the road.

    Contact Second to Nature for education and support of persons experiencing breast cancer before and after surgery. We are located in the Woodhaven Office Park, at 5450 Peters Creek Road. Call for an appointment at (540) 366-2711 or use our contact form. Follow us on Facebook for specials and breast cancer prevention news and updates from Second to Nature.

  • Breast Cancer in Young Women and How to Lower the Risks

    Breast Cancer in Young Women and How to Lower the Risks

    Breast Cancer in Young Women and How to Lower the Risks

    Focusing on Ways Young Women Can Lower the Risk of Breast Cancer

    This month we explore education relating to breast cancer in young women. Young women can carry a significant risk for this disease. Ours is a business focused on supporting women through the often significant health challenges. In our blog this month, Second to Nature would like to focus on ways young women can lower their risk.

    We realize that suspecting and receiving a cancer diagnosis can be a difficult time at any age. But receiving a breast cancer diagnosis as a young woman can put one’s life off-balance. Dealing with a significant health problem like breast cancer can impact home and work relationships. This can feel especially stifling just when many young women are starting to establish themselves.

    Most breast cancers are found in women over age 50, but about 11 percent of all new cases in the U.S. are in women younger than 45. If you are in the under-45 age group, this message is for you. If you know a woman under 45, share this information with them about breast cancer risks and ways to lower the risk.

    First, Determine If You May Have a Higher Risk

    There are certain questions you can ask yourself to determine if you could fall in the higher risk category. A woman under age 45 may have a higher breast cancer risk if the answer is yes to any of these:

    1. Do you have any close relatives diagnosed with breast or ovarian cancer, significantly at age 45 or younger?
    2. Do you have changes in certain breast cancer genes (BRCA1 and BRCA2)?
    3. Are you of Ashkenazi Jewish heritage?
    4. Did you receive radiation therapy/treatment to the breast or chest in childhood or early adulthood?
    5. Do you have breast cancer or other breast health problems – for example, lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS), ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), atypical ductal hyperplasia, or atypical lobular hyperplasia?

    You may only be able to find answers to some of these questions with the help and guidance of a doctor. Your healthcare professional may refer you to a genetic counselor to check for the breast cancer genes. The doctor may also recommend early screenings or offer other regimens, such as medicine or surgery, that can lower the risk.

    Second, Average Risk as a Young Woman Still Requires Diligence

    If you did not answer “yes” to any of the questions above, you still carry an average risk of getting breast cancer at a young age. This average risk implies the importance of managing the risk actively. So, it is vitally important to know how your breasts normally look and feel.

    Speak with your doctor if you notice any changes in your breasts. We defined some important breast health changes in our blog last month. A breast cancer diagnosis can feel especially devastating, and there are various factors that cause breast cancer in young women. Managing average risk with diligence can help catch cancerous changes in the breast early before they spread.

    What More Can Young Women Do to Reduce Breast Cancer Risk?

    We said before there can be several factors that influence breast cancer risk. Most young women who develop breast cancer do not have any known risk factors or history of the disease in their families. You can take heart in knowing there are also ways to reduce breast cancer risk.

    If you are a young woman under age 45, keep these ways to reduce breast cancer risk in mind:

    Maintain a healthy weight, and exercise regularly.
    Keep an eye on the healthiest weight for your body. Be sure to exercise at least four hours a week. Make these two things a vital part of your way of life as a young woman. You will be sure to stoke your metabolism and reap positive health benefits.

    Limit alcoholic drinks to no more than one per day.
    Some young women never get into the habit of drinking alcohol. However, this may not be the case in some households, and there are studies showing the benefits of drinking a glass of red wine. The takeaway from this and other studies is to limit wine to one glass or one drink per day containing alcohol.

    Avoid exposure to cancer-causing chemicals (carcinogens).
    Contact with a carcinogen raises your breast cancer risk. So, whether it is first- or second-hand smoke, or some other toxic substance, avoid exposure to cancer-causing chemicals. If you cannot avoid these completely, determine ways to reduce the risk as much as possible.

    A Few Additional Ways to Reduce Cancer Risk

    Reduce exposure to radiation (tests, scans).
    Younger women at higher risk for radiation exposure include a number working on the front lines of healthcare. Do all you can to ensure your safety during medical tests and scans. Talk with your healthcare professional about your concerns when scheduling mammograms, X-rays, CT scans, and PET scans.

    Know the risks of hormonal therapies and contraceptives.
    Many young women benefit from prescribed hormone replacement therapy or birth control pills (oral contraceptives). If you are taking either of these substances or have in the past, ask your doctor about the breast cancer risks to decide if these may have an impact on your health.

    Breastfeed your babies, if possible.
    The long-standing assertion that “breast is best” holds true here. For mothers who are able to nurse their babies by breastfeeding, it offers a boost in reducing breast cancer risk. Empower your breastfeeding knowledge and journey by contacting the La Leche League USA for information and support.

    Support for Young Women with Breast Cancer at Second to Nature

    Second to Nature in Roanoke, Virginia, provides dedicated support for women of all ages undergoing breast cancer. We specialize in breast forms and after breast cancer surgery fashions that restore confidence and well-being.

    For more information on breast cancer and risks for young women, visit the CDC website.

    Contact Second to Nature for an appointment at (540) 366-2711 or use our contact form. We are located in Roanoke in the Woodhaven Office Park, at 5450 Peters Creek Road. Follow us on Facebook to stay up to date with the latest news and specials.We are dedicated to breast cancer education and empowerment on breast cancer in young women.

  • Breast Cancer – What You Need to Know

    Breast Cancer – What You Need to Know

    Breast Cancer – What You Need to Know

    Education and Empowerment from Second to Nature in Roanoke, VA

    It was Breast Cancer Awareness Month recently, and we talked about breast cancer last time, so maybe you have a few questions. This is what education can do—spark an interest and generate even more to investigate. It is especially true with education on breast cancer – what you need to know, which is why Second to Nature is providing additional facts.

    Our clients in the Roanoke, Virginia, area take pride in our heritage. While we may choose to celebrate our positive traits, breast cancer is also a difficult part of the legacy we share. It ranks second to skin cancer as the most common type of cancer in American women. We cannot deny the impact breast cancer has on the lives of so many families in our area.

    As mentioned last time, education promotes understanding. This month, we take time to review some of the symptoms and other risk factors surrounding breast cancer. Screening for it can be an eye-opening experience when we make the choice to think about it.

    Looking at Signs and Symptoms of Breast Cancer

    Let’s begin by taking a look at some of the most common symptoms associated with breast cancer – what you need to know. These warning signs from the body signal something is going on. Pay close attention to any of these symptoms as an important part of your body’s early warning system:

    Lumps, Thickening, Swelling

    These warning signs can be fairly obvious, but do not let them fool you. If you are concerned with breast health, you have intimate awareness of how your breasts look every day. When doing breast examinations at home, be sure to check the surrounding areas of the breast. Armpit areas house a number of lymph glands that may show connected signs that warrant a doctor visit. If you notice, by feel or sight, any unusual lumps, thickening of the skin or breast tissue, or swelling, it is time to investigate further.

    Irritation or Dimpling of Breast Skin

    We recognize that there can be times when certain articles of clothing create skin irritation. Often, relief from such minor irritation comes as soon as you change clothes. But consider signs of irritation and dimpling of the breast that do not disappear or directly relate to an obvious cause like wearing an uncomfortable bra.

    Red, Flaky Skin in the Nipple Area

    The appearance or development of red, flaky skin in the nipple area of the breast can be another important symptom. Beyond requiring care, you may need to be aware of whether any recent activity may have caused the redness. Marathon runners, for example, are on high alert for nipple irritation. But if you are not active in this way and experience noticeable red or flaky nipple irritation, it is time to call your healthcare professional.

    Pulling-in or Pain in the Nipple Area

    The nipple area is full of sensitive nerves, so be aware of any lingering pain here. An obvious sign is when the nipple area pulls in on itself. This discomfort is a clear signal that you must pay attention to, especially if you have tried a home remedy and it persists.

    Nipple Discharges Other Than Breast Milk

    One might expect to see breast milk coming from the nipple, but if you experience discharge unexpectedly or have a bloody discharge, it is another warning sign. Pay attention and get it checked out.

    Changes in Breast Size or Shape

    Again, you see your breasts all the time. If you are proactive with breast health, you check regularly. So any change in breast size or shape is a reason to investigate further. Some individuals do experience a slight difference in size and shape. There can be different causes for it, but check it further with a health professional.

    Breast Pain

    You might think that the sign of pain would be first on our list. But as you can see, there are a number of other signs and symptoms that may not have noticeable pain associated with them. And breast pain can be intermittent—such as the soreness or tenderness many women experience with menstruation. Persistent and significant breast pain is a symptom that needs to be reported to and discussed with your healthcare professional.

    There can be one or more of these signs and symptoms present. The human body has some amazing warnings that let us know when something might be amiss. When it comes to breast health, keep these typical signs and symptoms in mind. Do not hesitate in getting them checked by a professional to help you be better informed about what is going on in your body.

    Factors That Increase Risk of Breast Cancer

    There are some general factors that can influence breast cancer risk. Two of the main ones are (1) being a female, and (2) getting older. See below for why we encourage older women to have regular screenings for breast cancer. Here are additional factors that increase the risk of breast cancer:

    • Having your first menstrual period before age 12.
    • Never giving birth or being older when giving birth to your first child.
    • Getting radiation therapy to the breast or chest.
    • Having a personal history of breast cancer, dense breasts, or some other breast problems.
    • Having a family history of breast cancer (e.g., parent, sibling, or child).
    • Taking oral contraceptives (birth control pills).
    • Taking hormones to replace missing estrogen and progesterone in menopause for more than five years.
    • Being overweight, especially after menopause.
    • Starting menopause after age 55.
    • Changes in breast cancer-related genes (BRCA1 or BRCA2).

    As with the signs and symptoms, individuals may experience the presence of one or more of these risk factors. Some of them, such as the genes, require special testing. Other risk factors may be easy enough to track on your own. Bring up these concerns of risk when visiting your doctor. Together, you can keep a closer eye on significant changes in your breast cancer risk.

    Early Screening Offers Plenty of Information on Breast Health

    Last item relating to breast cancer – what you need to know, but certainly not least, is the importance of screening—early screening.

    In fact, breast cancer screening means checking a woman’s breasts for cancer before any of the signs or symptoms appear. The early screening advised by professionals gives them and you a baseline by which to compare. The way most women obtain this early screening is by having a mammogram.

    Mammograms continue to be the best way to find breast cancer in its early stages. A mammogram is an X-ray picture of the breast that lets the doctor see what is happening inside. Having a mammogram can be a little uncomfortable for some women. However, some healthcare facilities may offer options. Mammograms can catch some of the typical cancers in their earliest stages for easier treatment—even before signs and symptoms appear!

    Women ages 50 to 74 should have a screening mammogram every two years. Younger women over age 40 who may have higher breast cancer risk can also benefit from a screening mammogram. Again, these films enable doctors to compare any changes over time, which is why regular checking is so important for breast health.

    If you have low income or no insurance and are between the ages of 40 and 64, our educational source at the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) provides the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program. Call them at (800) CDC-INFO (800-232-4636) to see if you qualify for a free or low-cost mammogram.

    Empower your own knowledge of breast health by keeping track and gathering possible details. Second to Nature shares this critical information on breast health, screenings, breast cancer signs, and risks to encourage you and your family. We are here to help our Roanoke neighbors maintain optimal breast health.

    Contact Second to Nature for an appointment at (540) 366-2711 or use our contact form. We are located in Roanoke in the Woodhaven Office Park, at 5450 Peters Creek Road. Follow us on Facebook to stay up to date with the latest news and specials.We are dedicated to breast cancer education and empowerment in breast cancer – What You Need to Know.

    Source:
    www.cdc.gov/cancer/breast/

  • What is Breast Cancer? Take Time to Educate Yourself

    What is Breast Cancer? Take Time to Educate Yourself

    What is Breast Cancer? Take Time to Educate Yourself

    Second to Nature Reviews Important Breast Health Information

    This month, the focus is on some basic, but important, breast health information. Second to Nature in Roanoke, Virginia, is a regional source for breast cancer education, awareness, and support. To us, every day is an important day to share information that can help save lives affected by it.

    No matter who you are, male or female, young or old, any type of cancer can be a significant health concern. The word “cancer” raises many emotions in the patient who has it, as well as extended family members. Before today’s modern imaging practices and other non-invasive tests, breast cancer was a word whispered with much fear and dread.

    Today, as many women and men know, focus is more about empowerment and survival. It helps to have support from educated family and friends, armed with information about treatments and positive outcomes for breast health.

    Defining Breast Cancer and How It Begins

    The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) defines breast cancer as a disease in which cells in the breast grow out of control. Medical experts over the years have documented various kinds. The kind of breast cancer a person may experience depends on which cells in the breast become cancerous.

    As you may know, the human breast consists of three main parts: Lobules, Ducts, and Connective Tissue.

    Lobules – These are the glands that produce milk in the breast.
    Ducts – These structures are tubes that carry milk to the nipple.
    Connective Tissue – These surround structures and hold everything together.

    Connective tissue in the breast may consist of both fibrous and fatty masses. Studies show most breast cancers start in the ducts or lobules. In short, breast cancer can start in different parts of the breast.

    Cancerous cells may sit within the breast as a local mass or tumor. But cancer cells can spread outside the breast through blood and lymph vessels. Once cancer spreads from the breast to other parts of the body, it is said to have metastasized.

    Looking Within – Views of the Breast Parts Inside

    It can be one thing to read and know these parts of the breast exist, and another one to see them. Of course, these parts of the breast look much different underneath the skin. It can be helpful to have a few different views of how these breast parts appear on the inside.

    Take a look at this anterior or front-view of the breast. Here you can see where all the parts are in a typical breast, along with the surrounding chest muscles.

    This second image is a side or cross-section view of the breast, showing those same breast parts, and how they extend out from the ribcage of the chest.

    Common Kinds of Breast Cancer

    As mentioned above, most commonly start in the ducts or lobules. These are the most regular kinds of invasive breast cancer that tests may discover:

    Invasive ductal carcinoma –

    Invasive ductal carcinoma is where the cancer cells grow outside the ducts and into other parts of the breast tissue. With invasive cancer cells, it can also metastasize or spread to other parts of the body.

    Invasive lobular carcinoma –

    With invasive lobular carcinoma, cancer cells spread from the lobules to the nearby breast tissues. These invasive cancer cells have the ability to spread to other parts of the body.

    Non-invasive Breast Cancer

    In addition to these invasive types, there are several less-common types of breast cancer. Some of these include Paget’s disease and inflammatory breast cancer. Click on the names to link with fact sheets at cancer.gov. These fact sheets contain more information on these less-common types.

    Ductal carcinoma in situ, or DCIS, is a kind of disease that may lead to breast cancer. With DCIS, the cells only appear to sit in the lining of the ducts alone. These cells have not spread to other breast parts or tissues in the breast.

    Education is ‘Second Nature’ at Second to Nature

    Because we know and speak about health matters every day, it may feel like “second nature” to our staff. We appreciate the journey of our clients who undergo mastectomy and other treatments. Meeting clients with knowledge and empathy helps the community at large. Education helps us understand, so we can relate to different situations. Whenever possible, we extend education to others in the Roanoke community.

    Our ongoing commitment to professional development also keeps us up-to-date on the newest fashions, products, and other supports. This makes Second to Nature unique in the Roanoke area and a good partner for clients and their families who are going through the experience of recovery.

    When it comes to your recovery after surgery, rely on Second to Nature’s caring staff to help. Be sure to stop back again over the next few months to read more on educational topics, including a special feature for young women.

    Contact Second to Nature for an appointment at (540) 366-2711 or use our contact form. We are located in the Woodhaven Office Park, at 5450 Peters Creek Road, Roanoke, VA. Follow us on Facebook to stay up to date with the latest news and specials. We are dedicated to empowerment and education to answer ‘what is breast cancer’, and so much more.

  • Choosing the Surgery That’s Right for You

    Choosing the Surgery That’s Right for You

    Choosing the Surgery That’s Right for You

    Decisions, Decisions—Choices About Your Health

    A number of decisions make up the health journey of each individual. From the type of doctor you see, to the insurance plan you carry, there are many factors that have an impact on your health and the choices you make. When you receive a significant diagnosis like breast cancer, the decisions you make can mean a lot for your outlook.

    A couple months ago, we talked about the different types of breast cancer surgeries. So much of a person’s breast cancer journey comes from making sound decisions based on current and reliable information. Each patient strives for the best success they can in treating their specific type of breast cancer.

    When the Doctor Recommends Surgery

    Beginning with your primary doctor, you may also see a specialist or two or require a number of tests to diagnose the condition. Surgery can often be the most effective way to rid the body of cancer; however, there are many factors that determine if surgery is a viable option. Consider all the factors and advice from health experts as you weigh your decisions about breast cancer surgery.

    It can be a natural reaction to just want to remove cancer in the fastest way possible. When trying to decide on a surgery, there may be more involved than this sense of urgency. Some top advice you may hear from family, friends, and cancer experts alike are reminders to:

    • Take time to research your options. Ask your nurse for handouts on each procedure. As you read, make a list of questions for your surgeon, and then take notes while talking to them.
    • Involve a plastic surgeon*. This can help when weighing the importance of breast saving techniques, reconstruction, and other post-surgery supports.
    • Discuss your treatment plan with loved ones. Having support from those closest to you can have a big impact on post-surgery outcomes. You may even get specific in asking loved ones to help you in certain ways, depending on your needs.
    • Find out your family history, including if any loved ones have had cancer. This could provide some indication of possibly successful options or treatments.

    The Importance of Getting a Second Opinion

    *Whenever possible, get a second opinion, as well. This won’t insult your surgeon—they will want you to feel secure in your final decision. When faced with a significant surgery, it is best to learn all you can about options before, during, and afterward.

    Obtaining the advice of another doctor, surgeon, or specialist is part of your own due diligence in making the best decision for your health. Taking time to get that second opinion, weigh all your options, and determine the best way forward can bring much in the way of information and options—including those relating to post-surgery care and support.

    Considering Options for After Breast Cancer Surgery

    After-breast-cancer-surgery care might include additional treatments recommended by the doctor or specialist. Effective supplemental treatments might range from a chemical or radiation regime, to exercise therapy and other physical supports. As with surgery, each type of after-surgery treatment and care will rely primarily on the type of cancer and surgery the doctor performs.

    Healing after breast cancer surgery itself takes time. Treatments and any remaining side-effects may add to your recovery time. Various forms of physical therapies may also help with healing and recovery. When ready, Second to Nature has the breast forms and other garments many clients feel are essential to restoring wellbeing.

    Control Your Treatment Plan with Plenty of Information

    Gathering as much information as possible can set your mind at ease and put you in control of your treatment plan. The journey of choosing the right breast cancer surgery that’s right for you is no small feat. It can affect your life moving forward in significant ways.

    Having the right supports for your life after breast cancer surgery can make a big difference. This is why Second to Nature seeks to be one of your significant partners when it comes to your recovery after surgery. We have the experience, knowledgeable advice, and supports for clients throughout the Roanoke region. Keep our number handy and give us a call to see how we can help you.

    Contact Second to Nature for an appointment at (540) 366-2711 or use our contact form. We are located in Roanoke in the Woodhaven Office Park, at 5450 Peters Creek Road. Follow us on Facebook to stay up to date with the latest news and specials.We are dedicated to breast cancer education and empowerment in choosing the surgery that’s right for you.

  • Types of Breast Cancer Surgeries

    Types of Breast Cancer Surgeries

    Types of Breast Cancer Surgeries

    Welcome once again to our blog here at Second to Nature. Over the next few months, we will raise awareness by discussing a few important issues for our clients. These include the different types of breast cancer surgeries available. Future articles will also explore who to tell about your cancer diagnosis, and choosing the type of surgery that is right for you.

    Accordingly, it is our desire to build a culture of understanding through education. To help lay the groundwork, we can start by sharing some enlightenment about breast cancer surgery. Yes, there are a variety of medical procedures available to patients. Let us review some of the most common types.

    Surgical Removal and Treatment of Breast Cancer

    Clients who receive a breast cancer diagnosis may undergo different types of breast cancer surgeries. Medical professionals use surgical procedures to effectively remove cancerous tumors, cells, and more from the chest and surrounding areas. The doctor may also combine a surgical procedure with another treatment, such as radiation therapy.

    It is enlightening to have a general awareness of the types of breast cancer surgeries that clients may face. Each patient’s experience is unique to the type of breast cancer removal or treatment the doctor recommends. Medical professionals provide their patients with full details specific to the type of diagnosis, procedure, and prognosis.

    Common Breast Cancer Surgeries

    Next, it is important to understand that any type of surgery comes with a certain amount of risk. Doctors and others on the care team will share what patients and their loved ones may expect with the most common types of breast cancer surgeries they perform. Active education and involvement helps to provide more positive outcomes.

    Breast cancer surgeries include:

    Lumpectomy: This procedure removes a tumor from the breast. A lumpectomy differs from a mastectomy, which removes the entire breast. Women who undergo a lumpectomy are usually recommended to receive radiation following surgery to help prevent recurrence. Some women are candidates for intraoperative radiation therapy. This typically limits the amount of radiation treatments needed after surgery. Commonly referred to as breast conservation therapy, the surgeon will design a lumpectomy coupled with radiation therapy to allow a woman to keep her breast.

    Mastectomy: This is the surgical removal of all the breast tissue. If breast conservation therapy is not a viable option, the doctor may recommend mastectomy. Women who have cancer in multiple areas of the breast and/or large tumors relative to the size of the breast are typically recommended to undergo a mastectomy. The cancer specialist may also recommend mastectomy for women with certain genetic mutations (BRCA1 or BRCA2). In many instances, the surgeon will spare much of the breast skin and even the nipple to improve the outcome of reconstruction.

    Several Different Types of Mastectomy

    For patients undergoing mastectomy, there are several different types of mastectomy:

    • Nipple-sparing mastectomy, which includes removal of the breast tissue only.
    • Skin-sparing mastectomy, which removes the breast tissue along with the nipple and areola.
    • Total (simple) mastectomy, which is a removal of the breast tissue and skin.
    • Modified radical mastectomy, which removes the whole breast, along with the lymph nodes under the arm.

    Factors such as breast size, breast shape, type of cancer, and the location of cancer in the breast and/or lymph nodes will determine which type of mastectomy the surgeon will perform. Your breast surgeon will guide you through the decision-making process. They will review options and outcomes for the type of mastectomy procedure appropriate for you. For more information, refer to the American Cancer Society website.

    Education Leads to Understanding and Support

    We hope that in sharing this important information that it will help educate readers about what they or their loved ones may experience. Remember that each person’s medical journey is a personal matter between them and their healthcare provider. As caring members of the community, we can all share in raising awareness through education.

    Like the staff at Second to Nature, many of us can learn a little more every day about the challenges associated with a breast cancer diagnosis. Sharing this type of education better equips us to offer much in the way of support. Embracing this added empathy means so much to patients who must undergo breast cancer surgery.

    Contact Second to Nature for After Breast Cancer Fashions

    After breast cancer surgery, contact Second to Nature for the post-surgery fashions you need to help with your recovery. We treat each breast cancer patient who comes to Second to Nature as people first, who happen to have the experience of a breast cancer diagnosis. Operating as we do on a person-first basis allows us the freedom and ability to customize the shopping experience for each client.

    Second to Nature is conveniently located in the Woodhaven Office Park, at 5450 Peters Creek Road, Roanoke, VA. Call Second to Nature for an appointment at (540) 366-2711 or use our contact form. Follow us on Facebook to stay up to date with the latest news and specials.