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(Ivanhoe Newswire) When breast cancer patients are facing the painful choice of whether to have a mastectomy or breast preservation surgery, they need to be aware both options may change their appearance.
A new study shows one-third of the women who chose the breast preservation option ended up with asymmetrical breasts. Researchers at the University of Michigan Comprehensive Care Center, where the study was conducted, found those whose breasts looked significantly different following surgery were more likely to be depressed and feel stigmatized. They also saw themselves as less healthy and were more likely to be afraid their cancer would come back.
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One of the most important factors of post-operative quality of life and satisfaction was post-operative asymmetry or the aesthetic outcome, says Jennifer Waljee, M.D., M.P.H, lead author of the study. Waljee stressed the importance of examining all the issues when making a surgical choice. Although breast conserving surgery may or may not be less disfiguring than mastectomy, theyre likely to experience some asymmetry afterwards that may impact their quality of life.
Women who choose mastectomy are counseled about the cosmetic changes they face. Although reconstruction surgery is available after both kinds of surgery, the studys authors feel the same level of discussion is not happening with women who choose the breast preservation option.
Waljees advises surgeons to have a full and open dialogue with patients so they understand what their breasts will look like after the tumor is removed.
SOURCE: Journal of Clinical Oncology, July 10, 2008
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