Things You Need to Know About Preventative Double Mastectomies

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Should I Have Breast Reconstruction Surgery After the Mastectomy?

Having your breasts rebuilt after the mastectomy is an option for most women. Breast reconstruction can restore the breasts appearance, depending on what the patient wants. It can be done after the mastectomy or at the same time, but this depends on the surgeon. Additionally, reconstruction isn’t ideal for everyone. There can be complications or issues with reconstruction. Instead, some women choose to wear a breast prosthesis or choose to leave the area as-is. You can discuss your options with a surgeon and a plastic surgeon before your mastectomy.

Did you know...

  • Starting to feel claustrophobic? The smells of apples may help keep your claustrophobic feelings at bay according to a 1995 study by Dr. Alan Hirsch. Green apples, specifically, helped people change their perception of their space. Maybe they thought of expansive apple orchards? Cucumbers and barbecue made the feelings worse.
  • Have you ever told your husband something and he promptly forgets it? It's not his fault, actually. It really is because he's a man. The hippocampus (the part of the brain that deals with memory) begins to shrink with age faster in men than it does in women. That's why you can remember everything, and he can't!
  • Just saying the words "thank you" can measurably improve your mood. Researchers can actually measure happiness and changes in brain structure when people practiced regular "grateful thinking." This included things like writing thank you notes, writing gratitude journal entries, mindfully counting their blessings, and thanking friends. It may be helpful in overcoming depression!
  • Are you currently or often tired? As contradictory as it may sound, one of the best things you can do is exercise! It gives you more energy by improving your blood flow and increasing your oxygen throughout your body. You don't need to do much; a brisk walk is all it takes!
  • There are many factors that contribute to your body odor, but one of the strongest links is our diet. This may be some bad news for meat-lovers because many studies have shown that those who refrained from or ate less red meat were judged as being more pleasant smelling. The meat sweats are real, and they don’t smell great!