It is about time that more women are made aware of options available for breast reconstruction even before they have undergone a mastectomy for breast cancer.

The Malaysian Association of Plastic, Aesthetic and Craniomaxillofacial Surgeons held their 5^th Annual Scientific Meeting on 15-17^th March 2002 in Sunway Medical Centre.

The theme of the meeting was “Postmastectomy Reconstruction”.

Dato’ Dr Suseela Nair answering questions at Q&A session
 

Included in their programme was a “live” operating session and a public forum held on 15th March 2002 in Sunway Medical Centre. 

During the Forum, the following topics were discussed: The Fear of Surgery, The patient’s perspective of “Losing your breast”, Skin sparing Mastectomy – What is it? and Breast Reconstruction – options.  

Speaking for the breast cancer patient was none other than Ms Ranjit Kaur of the Breast Cancer Welfare Association.  

Other than surgical reconstruction techniques and experiences, other topics of interest included the psychological aspects of breast cancer surgery for the patient and findings from counselors as well as pointers on how to counsel the breast cancer patient. Patients need to participate in their treatment, yet, desire for information does not equate assuming responsibility for decision making. The patient that has been given clear advice fare better psychologically, even if they have not chosen their actual treatment.
 

Dr Christopher Khoo emphasizes a point. He is a consultant plastic surgeon from Wexham Park Hospital, Berkshire, United Kingdom
 

The speakers included Dr Christopher Khoo who is a consultant plastic surgeon from Wexham Park Hospital, Berkshire, United Kingdom. He shared his experience with the “expander implant” that was versatile in that the “size” of the implant could be varied in it’s initial stage until the desired final size was reached (within limits of course). The final aesthetic result was also very acceptable. The patient does have to contend with discomfort for a while, as the implant is overexpanded initially.
 

Dr Christopher Khoo has produced with Dilys Morgan (writer), a 3-part Guide on Breast Cancer - symptoms, treatment and reconstruction.
 

Visit us regularly as we plan to give more information about breast reconstruction in our Articles Section of this Breast Health Info Centre in the coming months!