Young Women With Breast Cancer And Chemo Treatments

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and we talked about it earlier, but I think I want to address the topic again ...

Recent breast cancer research looks at the relationship between young women with breast cancer and chemo treatments. It seems if you have breast cancer at a young age, your prognosis isn't nearly as good then if you receive it at an older age.

Oncologists generally want younger woman to have the tumor removed followed by chemotherapy. However, studies have shown chemotherapy on its own isn't always successful. That's because younger woman most times have what's called hormone receptor positive breast cancer.

The European Organization for Research did several studies. 480 women under the age of 41 with early stage breast cancer were studied. They assessed estrogen receptors, progesterone receptors, and several other areas were accessed over just over 7 years.

The study showed that patients with ER positive tumors had a much better OS rate compared to those with ER Negative tumors. Now most of this is probably beginning to sound just a little bit like a foreign language, but the bottom line is ...

The end result of the study showed that younger women with hormone receptor positive tumors got far less benefit from chemotherapy than patients that had hormone receptor negative tumors. These various studies actually confirmed that chemotherapy treatment can't always be considered an optimum treatment choice in women that are under 41.

One way to reduce your risk of breast cancer at a young age is to regularly do a breast self-exam, often referred to as BSE. While it's not a cure it's a reliable method of getting to know your breasts and being able to recognize subtle changes.

Visit http://www.breastcancer.org/symptoms/testing/self_exam/index.jsp for some excellent information on doing your BSE including diagrams. Taking care of yourself with early BSE is the first step to early detection.

Breast Reconstruction For Breast Cancer Survivors

For survivors of breast cancer there is always the option of breast reconstruction. You find the loss of your breast[s] really is accepted at different levels between women. Some take it in stride and carry on, while other can't even think what life would be like without their breasts.

Breast reconstruction simply attempts to ease the loss of your natural breasts. Breast reconstruction becomes both a medical and personal decision. The more you understand breast reconstruction, the better a position you will be in to make the right choices.

Is breast reconstruction for you? Each woman will have their own reasons why they want to have breast reconstruction. It might be emotional, physical, for your overall lifestyle. There are many breast cancer and breast reconstruction groups online that are a great place to discuss your options.

Breast reconstruction will reshape your breast after a mastectomy, even after a lumpectomy. It can balance the appearance of your breasts when they are different sizes and shapes.

There are several plastic surgeons that specialize in breast reconstruction. During the initial consult you can discuss with your surgeon any concerns you have, and he or she will explain to you all of your options. Of course, your oncologist will have an active role in determining if breast reconstruction is right for you.

You may decide to start with prosthesis, which are external breast forms that you will place inside a special bra. They come in all different shapes and sizes, as well as various materials. It can help you determine what size breasts you'd like to have.

Are Your Considering Breast Augmentation?

Are you considering breast augmentation? Thinking that it’s time for those breast implants? Maybe things are starting to sag? Perhaps you’ve decide your body image could use a bit of a boost. What ever your reason breast augmentation has improved things for many women – both physically and emotionally.

Mammoplasty is the “official” name for breast augmentation. Your surgeon will have a consultation with you to determine what type of breast implants and the size of the implants that would be best for your body size.

The implants are placed under the breast tissue and beneath the chest wall muscle. You will usually have the incision in the crease under your breast or under your nipple. Sometimes the belly button is used and sometimes the armpit. This will be between you and your surgeon to decide.

With breast implants, the sack is filled with saline to reach the cup size and shape that’s wanted. Rather than being measured by cup sizes, ccs are used to get a precise sizing system. Recently, silicone gels have come to market to offer another interesting option for you.

The surgery takes anywhere from one to three hours to complete, and your recovery times is short. Generally, you’ll be able to return to work within a week unless your job is of a strenuous nature. Almost all women that have breast augmentation will tell you that it was a life enhancing experience that boosted their physical appearance and their self-esteem.

For more information on breast augmentation, you should make an appointment with a plastic surgeon in your area.