HELTH NEWS

The American actress Christina Applegate had to undergo a bilateral mastectomy, removal of both breasts to cure cancer. The radical solution was needed to be finally out of danger. But the breast is one of the strongest symbols of femininity, some women may experience this mutilation as a denial of their femininity and thus their personality. In this context, the surgery may be beneficial. The removal of a breast is always difficult to live and many women in France suffer this operation each year. Today, thanks to advances in surgery, it is always possible to reconstruct a new breast. Each year 30 000 breast cancers are discovered in France. For many women, this diagnosis leads to a mastectomy, in other words, the amputation of the breast. An amputation also symbolic This operation, necessary to remove the tumor, is generally poorly experienced by women. The breast is responsible for many symbols: womanhood, motherhood, sexuality, self-image… This is as much a symbolic qu'anatomique amputation. Before the operation, the surgeon must give all information requested by the patient, particularly as regards the scar and difficulty moving his shoulder after the operation, but also the potential complications, including the rare risk of muscle in case of radiotherapy. After the operation most women do not want to see their scar, and then they gradually get accustomed to their new appearance. A hospital Saint Louis, the team offers women the help of a psychologist. It can lend its support before and after surgery and during hospitalization, especially since the heavy trail of the woman made is not finished: after mastectomy, it remains to endure chemotherapy and / or radiotherapy. The reconstruction of the breast is always possible "Today, says Dr. Jean Masson, breast reconstruction is an integral part of treatment of this cancer." A hospital Saint Louis, as in other hospitals, the medical team present at the first consultation, the possibilities for breast reconstruction, mostly thanks to a prosthesis. Knowing that this possibility exists is very reassuring for most women, especially as to the reconstruction, the woman will have a prosthesis made in his bra. Most women accept the operation. When is it reconstruction? It is best to wait at least one year after the operation. During this period the woman can do his mourning of former breast and think more calmly to reconstruction. Sometimes, the same surgeon who practice the two operations. Women greatly appreciate this opportunity which allows them to confide more easily to a surgeon they already know. As for the reaction of the couple, everything is possible. The removal of the breast may lead to tension, or welding further partners. Some women refuse that their companion affects them, déshabillent in the dark or are afraid of the mirror. These reactions are normal and unpredictable. Speaking is useful The association "Living like before" you can usefully assist. It includes women who lived through the painful experience of a removal of the breast. They will advise you and you listen.