breast cancer

OCTOBER IS BREAST CANCER  AWARENESS MONTH

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Breast Cancer Awareness month is in October and began in 1985. It is a partnership between the American Cancer Society and Astra Seneca pharmaceutical company. Since that time, we dedicate October to raising awareness of this form of cancer in the world. The pink ribbon is emblematic of this commitment to encourage all of us to be constantly aware of the risks and dangers of breast cancer.

breast cancerAfter lung cancer, breast is the most common cancer in the world. Over 2 million women will receive a breast cancer diagnosis this year. 200,000 of those will be in America. The five warning signs of breast cancer are:

  • A lump in the breast or under the armpit
  • A thickening or swelling of part of the breast
  • Irritation or dimpling of breast skin
  • Redness or flaking around the nipple and or pulling in of the nipple.
  • Bloody nipple discharge.

I have performed thousands of cosmetic breast surgeries over the years including breast augmentation, breast lift, breast reduction with lift. And, I always require a preoperative mammogram before surgery. This serves as a baseline mammogram going forward postoperatively. Also, I recommend an annual mammogram for my patients. Furthermore, I am able to place the implant both above or below the muscle so that postoperative mammograms can be adequately and accurately done. Moreover, you can have a mammogram after implants.

Breast Cancer Suspicion

If there is a suspicious area in a post-operative mammogram then an ultrasound recommendation can easily be done. Furthermore, I always recommend that breast surgery patients do a self-exam. This is done on a regular basis. And, preferably it is in the shower when the soapy area creates a more sensitive examination method. Also, I also recommend if any of my post-operative breast patients feel something suspicious that they make an appointment for a breast exam with their OBGYN, or their plastic surgeon.

Breast Cancer Awareness month is a very useful tool to draw attention to this potentially deadly disease and hopefully, find cases early enough for a cure.

THOMAS TREVISANI, MD
BOARD CERTIFIED PLASTIC SURGEON
MEMBER AMERICAN SOCIETY OF AESTHETIC PLASTIC SURGERY
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