The Guide to Breast Reconstruction
Step-by-step from Mastectomy through Reconstruction
by
Book Cover & Preview Text
There are many books available on the subject of breast cancer. These cover a variety of topics, including diagnosis, cancer treatments and personal stories about the battle but not many are dedicated exclusively to the subject of breast reconstruction. I remember my consultation, sitting in the plastic surgeon’s office feeling totally overwhelmed. My head was swimming with all kinds of thoughts as I tried hard to concentrate and actually listen to him, while he carefully explained my options and the lengthy process. I realize now that I probably only heard and maintained half of the things he had said to me that day. As I went through my own personal journey, I realized that I needed more information about the road ahead. I wished for a step-by-step guide to help me through the process, preferably written by someone who had compassion and insight. I had no use for medical terms that I didn’t fully understand, written by someone quoting medical journals who had never actually experienced what I would be undertaking. I wanted to hear words from a woman who was uniquely qualified to discuss the subject because she had actually completed what I was just beginning. There are two sides to this story: the doctor telling you what you can expect and the patient telling you what she actually experienced not only physically but mentally, and emotionally. This entire process requires both you and your doctor to work together as a team. While he does the technical work of the surgeries, it’s up to you to follow all your post-op instructions so that you will achieve the best results.
Formats
Book Details
About the Book
The book is designed to be a useful resource for anyone struggling with breast cancer. It’s been written with the compassion and insight that only a breast cancer survivor can offer, it will walk you through the mastectomy and the entire reconstruction process. The author shares actual photos that document each stage of reconstruction. Drawing upon her own firsthand experiences, the author explains what you can expect, step by step, and shares advice on how to deal with each stage of the process. At each step, she describes what you can expect to hear from the doctor as well as the physical and emotional challenges you may face along the way. You’ll find support, information and advice about your options. The topics covered include the newest flap procedures, implants, nipple sparing surgery, nipple and areola reconstruction, financial assistance, intimacy issues, how to prepare for surgeries and how to cope during recovery. The book also features interviews with a plastic surgeon who specializes in breast reconstruction and an expert tattoo artist who offers the finishing touches—from nipple and areola tattoos to beautiful artistic tattoos that cover scars. The author delves into the history of breast cancer and reconstruction, and even explains how to find the correct bra during the process and after all the procedures have been completed. This must-have guide is written from a down-to-earth perspective that is at once informative, candid, soul baring and, at times, highly entertaining.
About the Author
Patricia O’Grady is a breast cancer survivor who had a double mastectomy followed by reconstruction. She is an avid book collector of rare editions, first editions and author-signed books. She believes there is nothing more invigorating than the smell of a book store. She has written numerous books on various subjects, including reference guides, fiction, young adult fiction and children’s books. She is the recipient of many writing awards, including a Covey and a YABI award for best young adult novel. She is originally from New York and currently resides in Florida with her Yorkshire terrier, King Arthur.