October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This annual campaign is used to increase awareness of this disease. Breast cancer is the second most common cancer overall, and the most common cancer worldwide. It is the second leading cause of death in the United States and the leading cause of cancer death in underdeveloped countries.
In the United States alone, there are more than 3.5 million cancer survivors, this includes women who have completed treatment and those who are still being treated. In the US this year, an estimated 266,120 women and 2,550 men will be diagnosed with an invasive breast cancer.
Before & After
Reconstructive Surgery for Breast Cancer
Reconstructive surgery can restore not only the natural shape and form of the body after a lumpectomy or mastectomy, but it can also provide psychological benefits like confidence and self-esteem. This procedure can be performed at the same time as the breast cancer surgery or later on down the road.
Implants are the most common option used for reconstructive surgery, with nearly two-thirds of women electing some form of the implant following breast cancer surgery. Breast implants are constructed of saline or silicone gel. However, there are some complications associated with breast implants. These include but are not limited to infection, ripples, hardness, asymmetry, capsular contracture, as well as possibly needing revisional surgery in the future.
Capsular Contracture
One cause of breast implant hardness after reconstructive surgery for breast cancer is known as capsular contracture. This complication is increased dramatically if you have had radiation as part of your medical course for Breast Cancer. It is one of the more common complications with breast implants. It is important to note that the earlier treatment for this condition is sought, the better. In fact, without seeking proper treatment, this surgical complication may worsen.
Four Stages of Capsular Contracture Using the Baker’s System:
Grade I: Breast appears and feels normal
Grade II: Breast appears somewhat firm but looks normal
Grade III: Breast is firmer and is appears distorted (shape change or mal-positioned)
Grade IV: Breast is hard and greatly distorted in both position and shape
The Aspen Rehabilitation Technique for Breast Implant Hardness
The Aspen Rehabilitation Technique is a patented process available through The Aspen After Surgery Center located in Coral Springs, Florida and offers a 1-week FAST TRACK for qualified patients. Typically, the cost of travel and treatment is less than surgery and comes with none of the risks.
The Aspen System non-surgical treatment for Capsular Contracture involves a series of painless soundwaves that are administered over the women’s breast. The next step is pocket expansion techniques and specific implant massages that are delivered by one of The Aspen After Surgery’s licensed experts. In the last step, a compression garment is fitted to help adjust the situate the hard implant.
If you have had breast reconstruction especially with a history of radiation or have already gone through the process, call us today to speak with one Aspen’s experts.
As surgery to fix capsular contracture has a high re-occurrence rate , especially with radiation, The Aspen Treatment can also be provided in a patient’s surgeons office. Ask your surgeon for the Aspen After Surgery Treatment as an inexpensive option to surgery.