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Patients opting for breast reconstruction following mastectomy: an analysis of uptake rates and benefit

Authors Howard-McNatt M

Received 18 December 2012

Accepted for publication 18 January 2013

Published 25 February 2013 Volume 2013:5 Pages 9—15

DOI https://doi.org/10.2147/BCTT.S29142

Checked for plagiarism Yes

Review by Single anonymous peer review

Peer reviewer comments 3



Marissa M Howard-McNatt

Department of General Surgery, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA

Abstract: For women with breast cancer who undergo a mastectomy, breast reconstruction offers improved psychological and cosmetic outcomes. We analyzed the rates of breast reconstruction and potential benefits to these women. The review was based on a PubMed search using the terms “reconstruction,” “mastectomy,” “rates,” “benefits,” and “breast cancer.” Breast-reconstruction rates have continued to rise in recent years; however, there are definite barriers to widespread use of this procedure. These barriers include age, ethnicity, income, tumor characteristics, and the need for adjuvant radiation therapy. There are notable psychological advantages to women who receive breast reconstruction. These women also express an improved quality of life. Breast reconstruction is an acceptable technique for women undergoing mastectomy. It should be offered to all women in an immediate or delayed fashion, with guidance from their physician about the benefits and risks.

Keywords: breast reconstruction, breast cancer, rates, benefits

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