 Hello, Warriors! Welcome to The Breast Place blog and thank you for taking time out of your active schedule to visit! We appreciate our readers to the utmost degree, as we do our patients. Hopefully, you’re taking advantage of the current climate and enjoying our lovely city in autumn. If this is your first visit to The Breast Place blog, we cover a range of topics here. From breast cancer management to anti-aging skin treatments to helpful tips for maximizing your overall health and wellness—The Breast Place is committed to sharing the best health practices and treatment options with you! Our offices are open and our staff are prepared to answer any questions you may have about your health, your breast cancer risk, and how to reach your aesthetic goals.
Before we dive too deeply into today’s topic, we’d like to make you aware of a few promotions available at The Breast Place this January. We’re running a 40% off special on our Environ products. Be sure to take advantage of this sale before we run out of stock! The Breast Place is also offering free Laser Genesis with the purchase of 40 units of Botox or more. (P.S. This deal is worth $275!) To start off the New Year right, we’re offering our facial rejuvenation package for $500 off! Mark your calendars, our upcoming VIP Day will take place on January 25th. Make your appointment now for a complimentary consultation and discounted pricing on truSculpt iD! You can read up on how truSculpt iD melts fat and prepare for your appointment here. If you happen to drop by the office before then, we recommend taking a look at The Metabolic Approach to Cancer by Dr. Nasha Winters, ND, L.Ac, FABNO, and Jess Higgins Kelley, MNT. This book deals with deep nutrition, nontoxic bio-individualized therapies, and how the ketogenic diet can be utilized to starve cancer cells. We’ll be carrying a limited stock of these books and they’re available for only $25. If you have any questions about our January specials, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us! Our last article served to clarify a few facts about lactation. Breastfeeding isn’t always the simplistic, straightforward process it’s portrayed as. It’s important for expectant mothers to comprehend the mechanics of breastfeeding, as this will allow them to anticipate and adapt to certain sticking points. We discussed the three phases of breastmilk development, what to expect during each phase, how to deal with “after pains,” basic tips for latching, and more. Each breastfeeding journey is different and we encourage you to chart your own course with your baby. Whether you breastfeed for six months or six days, you should be equipped with a bevy of knowledge concerning what’s happening within your body. The Breast Place offers lactation consulting services because we understand how difficult and overwhelming the breastfeeding process can be. There’s no reason to go it alone. If you’re having trouble or need answers to your questions about breastfeeding, do not hesitate to schedule a consultation with us! As well, be sure to give our last article a quick read! In this article, we’re discussing potential treatments for lymphedema. Lymphedema is a common post-surgery side effect and something survivors deal with regularly. Characterized by painful swelling, lymphedema is an uncomfortable condition. In this article, we’ll break down why lymphedema occurs before delving into possible treatments. Here at The Breast Place, we help those suffering with lymphedema to restore lymphatic flow, reduce swelling, alleviate pain, and gain their confidence back. If, after this article, you believe you’re suffering from lymphedema–please schedule a consultation with us. The sooner the issue is addressed, the sooner you’ll be back to feeling yourself! What is lymphedema? The lymphatic system is one aspect of the immune system. Composed of various tissues, vessels, and organs, the lymphatic system moves lymph throughout the body. While plasma delivers nutrients where necessary, lymph is a water-like substance leftover when the work is done. In and of itself, lymph is not a harmful substance. In fact, quite the opposite. Lymph is crucial for maintaining fluid balance within the body, absorbing fat from the digestive tract, and protecting our bodies from potentially harmful pathogens. Lymph can produce lymphocytes (i.e. white blood cells), which attack bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi. However, one of the most important functions of lymph is facilitating the drainage of cellular waste and abnormal cells from the body. Lymphedema occurs when lymph builds up. This can occur anywhere within the body, but most commonly around the arms, legs, and armpits. Sometimes, during breast cancer, cancerous tumors grow large enough to obstruct the lymphatic drainage process. Likewise, radiation treatments can damage the lymph vessels–those highways along which lymph travels throughout the body–resulting in lymph pooling the surrounding tissue. Surgical breast cancer treatments may entail the loss of certain lymph nodes. Lymph nodes are small nodules responsible for keeping track of our lymph drainage. These nodes act as filters, preventing abnormal or cancerous cells from reentering our system. Nodes also produce lymphocytes. There are over 600 lymph nodes in the body and any one of these can become blocked, resulting in lymphedema. Those with lymphedema will notice the gradual-but-persistent swelling of their arm, leg, or other body parts. Their skin may feel tight or stretched, as well as take on a “leathery” appearance. They may also experience tingling or heaviness in the affected area. Lymphedema can be confirmed by a doctor through the measurement of the affected arm, leg, or other body parts, with its unaffected counterpart. A difference of 2 cm in size is generally an indication of lymphedema. Lymphedema is considered a chronic condition and “incurable.” That said, not all types of lymphedema are made equal. Mild lymphedema may occur immediately after surgery, as a result of the body’s healing process, and resolve itself within a few days. Lymphedema can appear several weeks after surgery, suddenly, then dissipate over time. Or, lymphedema can develop over years, slowly. This last type of lymphedema is considered the most stubborn and will not go away unless treated. How is lymphedema treated? Although prevention is always better than a cure, lymphedema cannot always be prevented. Those who have undergone radiation therapy or had lymph nodes removed will be predisposed to developing lymphedema. Exercising regularly after breast cancer treatment is associated with a decreased chance of developing lymphedema, as exercise improves circulation and aids the body in the drainage process. Similarly, exercise is often prescribed as a treatment for lymphedema. Your doctor or a physical therapist might recommend specific exercises for their efficacy in promoting drainage. Wearing compression sleeves or bandages can help alleviate the discomfort of lymphedema. Eating a well-balanced diet full of nutrients, sleeping well and through the night, as well as maintaining a healthy weight also contribute to the dissolution of lymphedema. You’ll most likely be recommended to keep the swollen area raised, to allow gravity to assist with the drainage process. Lymphedema can stretch the skin and cause it to crack. That’s why skincare is vitally important. To prevent infection, you’ll want to keep your skin moisturized and clean. Your doctor will also be able to advise you on which products you should and should not use. Massage therapy is perhaps the most vital component of lymphedema treatment. Since the body is struggling to move lymph fluid on its own, the manual manipulation of the body’s tissue might help the process along. A massage therapist specialized in treating lymphedema is going to be able to express excess fluid from the swollen area. Is there anything else I should do if I have lymphedema? Those with lymphedema are at an increased risk of developing an infection. If one arm is swollen after breast cancer surgery, you shouldn’t have blood drawn from this arm. You should avoid having blood pressure tests performed on this arm or leaning on this arm, too. Avoid wearing tight clothes which might cut off the circulation to the swollen area. Be attentive when shaving. Wear sunscreen to prevent sunburns. The swollenness of a lymphedema limb may cause you to be unaware when the limb is exposed to extreme temperatures. Stay vigilant. Try to keep your sodium intake low. If you wound your swollen area, be sure to apply antibacterial ointment and a clean bandage. If, instead of healing, the wound begins to appear red or you develop a fever, contact your doctor right away. Lymphedema doesn’t have to be forever. The Breast Place is here to help you towards healing! You can schedule a consultation to discuss your lymphedema today. If you have any specific questions about this service, we would be more than happy to answer them! Thank you for reading and we hope you’ll visit The Breast Place blog again soon!
0 Comments
 Hello, Warriors! Welcome to The Breast Place blog and thank you for taking time out of your active schedule to visit! We appreciate our readers to the utmost degree, as we do our patients. Hopefully, you’re taking advantage of the current climate and enjoying our lovely city in autumn. If this is your first visit to The Breast Place blog, we cover a range of topics here. From breast cancer management to anti-aging skin treatments to helpful tips for maximizing your overall health and wellness—The Breast Place is committed to sharing the best health practices and treatment options with you! Our offices are open and our staff are prepared to answer any questions you may have about your health, your breast cancer risk, and how to reach your aesthetic goals.
Before we dive too deeply into today’s topic, we’d like to make you aware of a few promotions available at The Breast Place this upcoming January. We’re running a 40% off special on our Environ products. Be sure to take advantage of this sale before we run out of stock! The Breast Place is also offering buy one, get one free on Laser Genesis with 40 units of Botox or more. As well, to start off the New Year right, we’re offering our facial rejuvenation package for $500 off! Look out for more information on our upcoming VIP Day on our social media channels. If you drop by the office, we recommend taking a look at The Metabolic Approach to Cancer by Dr. Nasha Winters, ND, L.Ac, FABNO, and Jess Higgins Kelley, MNT. This book deals with deep nutrition, nontoxic bio-individualized therapies, and how the ketogenic diet can be utilized to starve cancer cells. We’ll be carrying a limited stock of these books and they’re available for only $25. If you have any questions about our January specials, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us! Our last article was dedicated to busting Botox myths. Botox, among other neuromodulators, is a highly effective substance. Beyond just its cosmetic usage, Botox is the key to numerous life-sustaining medical treatments. Our last article served to illuminate the many purposes of Botox, demystify the composition of Botox, and clarify any misconceptions about the safety and efficacy of Botox. Even if you’ve been receiving Botox injections for years, there may be a few facts mentioned there you didn’t know! We hope you’ll give our last article a quick read when you’re done here! The topic of today’s article is lactation. The lactation process can be one of the most challenging aspects of new motherhood and can be made even more difficult by misinformation. There are common misconceptions about breastfeeding which abound even in the age of information and these inaccuracies can give expectant mothers skewed expectations concerning their own milk production. No two lactation stories will be exactly the same–that’s why it’s important to understand the full scope of possibilities when it comes to breastfeeding. The Breast Place offers lactation consulting because we want every new mother to have a smooth transition into feeding their newborn. Today, we’ll provide a basic overview of what everyone (yes, we mean everyone) should know about lactation! By the end of this article, we hope you feel more confident about the process. If you have any further questions, we encourage you to set up a consultation with us! Breast milk develops in three distinct phases. The milk we commonly associate with breastfeeding is known as “mature milk,” or the final iteration of what our bodies produce. When you first begin producing, you will not produce mature milk. Instead, you will produce colostrum. Colostrum is a thick, highly-nutritious, yellow substance. The antibodies in colostrum help infants fight off infections and viruses during those first few days. You’ll only produce about a teaspoon or two at a time and this might be disconcerting, initially. Although colostrum is enough to meet your infant’s dietary needs, it isn’t calorically dense enough to sustain their birth weight. For this reason, it’s customary for infants to lose between five to seven percent of their weight during the colostrum stage, which lasts three to five days after birth. You might feel frightened or guilty, watching your baby lose weight, and these emotions are normal. You shouldn’t begin to worry, however, unless your infant loses more than 10% of their body weight during the colostrum stage. During the second stage, you’ll begin to produce what’s known as “transitional milk.” This transitional milk is, as the name suggests, a mixture of colostrum and mature milk. It’ll be a lighter yellow than colostrum and high in protein, which will help your baby begin to regain some of the weight lost during the initial phase. Transitional milk will only appear three to five days after giving birth and must be stimulated by regular feedings. Some women, after becoming disheartened by initial problems breastfeeding, want to stop at this point. There is absolutely no shame in discontinuing breastfeeding. You should consult with your doctor and a lactation expert to ensure the problems you’re experiencing cannot be solved first, but if breastfeeding is negatively impacting your emotional or physical health, you should stop. Even a few days of breastfeeding is better than nothing, as your colostrum and transitional milk have helped to prime your baby’s digestive system. By the third phase, as we mentioned, you’ll be producing mature milk. This milk is white (although it can appear bluish) and watery. Mature milk has a much thinner consistency than either colostrum or transitional milk, but becomes creamier mid-feeding, when fat is released by the body. You’ll begin producing mature milk 10 to 15 days after giving birth. Mature milk is filled with all of the nutrients and calories your baby needs to survive. During this phase, you’ll see your baby regain all of the weight they lost (and more). You may experience “after pains” when breastfeeding. Many women are shocked to find breastfeeding triggers their uterus to contract and that these contractions can be quite painful. These contractions occur because breastfeeding causes oxytocin to be released by the brain. Oxytocin is the hormone and neurotransmitter commonly associated with love, trust, empathy, desire, and euphoria; it’s also part of the reason breastfeeding is such a bonding activity with your child. The brand name of oxytocin is Pitocin. If you’re unaware, Pitocin is used to strengthen labor contractions. Therefore, oxytocin plays two vital roles within the body, that of inducing strong positive feelings and that of inducing contractions. Relax as much as possible when breastfeeding and wait for these contractions to pass. It’s important to rest after feedings, as fatigue can influence milk supply. As time passes and you move further away from the birth, these contractions should lessen in intensity and frequency. If these contractions prevent you from breastfeeding, you should consult your physician for assistance in handling the pain. Latching can take practice. Although most expectant mothers hope and pray to birth a baby who latches on the first try, this isn’t the case with a majority of newborns. Whether you’ve had children already or not, for each new baby, it’s their first time. It’s important to make sure you’re in a comfortable position with plenty of support for your neck and shoulders. You might want a pillow on your lap. Your baby will be positioned tummy-to-tummy with you. Squeeze a drop or two onto your nipple to help the baby understand. You can begin by running your nipple along the baby’s lips, back and forth, and waiting for a yawn. The tip of your baby’s nose and chin will most likely touch your breast. Just because your baby is sucking doesn’t mean they are feeding. When they are receiving milk, you’ll notice a distinct suck-swallow-breathe pattern. If you’re unable to get a good latch, try again by hooking a finger into the baby’s mouth to break their seal. A good latch will have both your nipple and areola covered by the seal. Once again, if you continue to run into problems, you should reach out to a lactation consultant. By no means should you berate yourself. You’re doing amazing! It’s possible to breastfeed without giving birth. Inducing lactation without the help of hormones which naturally occur during pregnancy can make the entire process doubly challenging, but it is possible. If you’re looking to adopt a baby and hope to breastfeed, you should consult a lactation expert who has experience inducing non-pregnancy lactation. Understand, this process can take months, requires ample dedication, and may not always be successful. That said, it is possible and something you should look into well in advance of your baby coming home. The biggest takeaway from this article is: Breastfeeding is not easy. Lactating can come as second nature to some, but others have to work at doing so successfully. When you encounter problems, it’s important to recognize these as natural parts of the process and to be kind to yourself. We encourage you to come into The Breast Place for lactation consulting if you are experiencing issues or are hoping to prepare for your upcoming birth. We are always here to help! There are plenty more things to know about lactation, so we will certainly be following up this article with a part two. We hope you’ve enjoyed, and thank you for reading!  Hello, Warriors! Welcome to The Breast Place blog and thank you for taking time out of your active schedule to visit! We appreciate our readers to the utmost degree, as we do our patients. Hopefully, you’re taking advantage of the current climate and enjoying our lovely city in autumn. If this is your first visit to The Breast Place blog, we cover a range of topics here. From breast cancer management to anti-aging skin treatments to helpful tips for maximizing your overall health and wellness—The Breast Place is committed to sharing the best health practices and treatment options with you! Our offices are open and our staff are prepared to answer any questions you may have about your health, your breast cancer risk, and how to reach your aesthetic goals.
Before we dive too deeply into today’s topic, we’d like to make you aware of a few promotions available at The Breast Place this holiday season. We know you’re currently on the hunt for the best gifts for your friends and family. Well, The Breast Place is here to help! This December, we’re premiering a reimagined BOGO sale. Buy one, gift one. You can schedule a discounted Secret RF or Laser Genesis treatment session for yourself and a loved one after Black Friday. Keep a close eye on our social media for more information on our BOGO sale! End this year with a treat and start off the new year right at The Breast Place! Our last article was dedicated to understanding how Laser Genesis with Cutera’s excel® V+ utilizes two wavelengths to treat rosacea, hyperpigmentation, broken blood vessels, sunspots, and more. Truthfully, excel® V+ can be used for any skin ailment which contains the pigments red, brown, blue or purple, which leaves a laundry list of skin concerns susceptible to Cutera’s advanced technology. We explained just how this technology works before delving into a few commonly asked questions concerning excel® V+. Is it safe? How many treatments do you need to see results? How long do results last? Is it painful? Are there any side effects? We covered everything you could possibly need to know about excel® V+ to make the most informed decision before booking your first appointment. You can read our last article here. If you have any questions or concerns about the treatment, let us know! We’re always more than happy to discuss treatments in-depth with those interested! Today, we’re busting a few Botox myths! Botox, among other neuromodulators, is a highly effective substance. Beyond just its cosmetic usage, Botox is the key to numerous life-sustaining medical treatments. This article is dedicated to illuminating many purposes of Botox, demystifying the composition of Botox, and clarifying any misconceptions about the safety and efficacy of Botox. Even if you’ve been receiving Botox injections for years, there may be a few facts mentioned here you didn’t know! Without further ado, let’s bust these Botox myths! Myth: Botox only works if you don’t have any wrinkles yet. As each year passes, more and more young people are using Botox (or its light-handed application, affectionately known as “Baby Botox'') as a preventative measure to ward off the formation of wrinkles. In this capacity, Botox is highly effective. While expressiveness is the hallmark of great actors, it’s also one of the top contributors to the premature formation of wrinkles. Why? Because wrinkles are formed by the repeated folding of the skin. As we age and our collagen stores are depleted, our skin fails to smooth out as it once did. Like paper, we’re able to see where all of the folds have been. Now, there are two types of wrinkles. The first are dynamic wrinkles. Dynamic wrinkles appear whenever we make an expression. When we smile, laugh, cry, yawn—these wrinkles make an appearance. What Botox does is relax the muscles causing these wrinkles to form, thereby eliminating them. The second type of wrinkles are static wrinkles. Static wrinkles are present even when the face is at rest. When we smile, laugh, cry, or yawn, these wrinkles can become more pronounced, but they’re always there. Botox can significantly reduce the appearance of static wrinkles. However, it’s recommended that static wrinkles be treated with a combination of Botox and dermal fillers. Myth: Botox never leaves your body. If Botox never left your body, you wouldn’t need to undergo another treatment session every four to six months. The truth is, Botox is metabolized by the body over time. Which means from the moment the substance is injected into the targeted muscles until the moment the substance is finally flushed by your body’s drainage system, you are actively breaking down the active components of the Botox. Myth: Botox is totally toxic and bad for you. Botox is actually a purified form of botulinum toxin type A. This toxin is produced by bacteria and, in incredibly large quantities, is indeed toxic. However, the amount needed to cause harm to a human being far exceeds the amount used by medical professionals for cosmetic purposes. By quite a lot, in fact. Botox was approved for cosmetic use by the FDA in 2002, but had been used decades before to fix eye disorders (such as uncontrollable blinking and crossed eyes). Of course, when having Botox injected you should seek to have the treatment performed by a certified dermatologist or experienced medical professional. As well, you should hold off on Botox if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Myth: Botox will make your face look stiff. You won’t be able to smile anymore. This is absolutely not true! Unfortunately, this myth prevents many people from pursuing Botox treatment, as no one wants to look like a statue. The truth is, if you seek treatment from a licensed medical professional with a proven track record of successful Botox injections, you should be pretty happy with your results. Many people who end up with the “frozen” look requested sizable injections. If you’re not interested in large portions of your face becoming immobile, sticking to smaller amounts of Botox is the simplest way to achieve your desired look. A skilled injector will know just how much Botox to apply, as well as just where to apply it, to halt your wrinkles in their tracks while maintaining freedom of facial expression. If you’re really worried, opt for “Baby Botox,” a form of Botox injection known for its miniscule amounts. Myth: When you stop using Botox, you’ll age faster. This myth is based entirely on fiction. There is no “catch-up” after you discontinue Botox, whether you’ve been receiving injections for a year or twenty years. While Botox can be used to prevent the formation of wrinkles, its discontinuation does not correlate to any sudden recurrence of those wrinkles you happened to successfully avoid. Rather, you’ll continue to age at the same rate you always would have. Now, for those who have been using Botox since they were quite young (i.e. twenties) and are now in their late fifties and early sixties, the skin on top of those muscles which were consistently paralyzed has probably thinned. All of us experience some amount of skin thinning as we age. Thin skin is more susceptible to the sun and, thus, needs to be protected. A comprehensive daily skincare regimen, including broad spectrum sunscreen and adequate moisture, should be sufficient to keep the skin from aging rapidly. Myth: Only people who hate the way they look have Botox done. This myth is based on a misconception concerning the purpose of aesthetic care and its benefits. People who undergo Botox are no more predisposed to feelings of inadequacy or insecurity than anyone else. However, according to scientific study, those who undergo Botox (and similar cosmetic procedures) are predisposed to heightened levels of self-esteem, confidence, and happiness. This isn’t to say cosmetic procedures are the only path towards a better self-image. Rather, it’s to say: Cosmetic procedures can and do play a vital role in affecting positive psychological change within patients. And, as far as we can see, there’s no shame in that. Here at The Breast Place we’re dedicated to helping women feel their best! Botox is a quick and easy way to smooth unwanted wrinkles in the forehead and around the eyes. Lasting about 4-6 months, Botox relaxes the injected muscle to smooth out the wrinkle caused by that muscle. Botox can be used in conjunction with both Laser Genesis and SecretRF microneedling (if done correctly) to prolong the life of the treatments! To learn more about any of our services, contact us today! We hope you’ve enjoyed this myth-busting article. If so, please return to The Breast Place blog for more educational articles! Until then, thank you for reading!  Hello, Warriors! Welcome to The Breast Place blog and thank you for taking time out of your active schedule to visit! We appreciate our readers to the utmost degree, as we do our patients. Hopefully, you’re taking advantage of the current climate and enjoying our lovely city in autumn. If this is your first visit to The Breast Place blog, we cover a range of topics here. From breast cancer management to anti-aging skin treatments to helpful tips for maximizing your overall health and wellness—The Breast Place is committed to sharing the best health practices and treatment options with you! Our offices are open and our staff are prepared to answer any questions you may have about your health, your breast cancer risk, and how to reach your aesthetic goals.
Before we dive too deeply into today’s topic, we’d like to make you aware of a few promotions available at The Breast Place this holiday season. We know you’re currently on the hunt for the best gifts for your friends and family. Well, The Breast Place is here to help! This December, we’re premiering a reimagined BOGO sale. Buy one, gift one. You can schedule a discounted Secret RF or Laser Genesis treatment session for yourself and a loved one after Black Friday. Keep a close eye on our social media for more information on our BOGO sale! End this year with a treat and start off the new year right at The Breast Place! Our last article detailed the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on breast cancer screenings. As we’ve discussed previously, early detection is one of the best tools we have in the fight against breast cancer. Every year, when we observe Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it is with the hope more women will take their health into their own hands and participate in regular screenings. The pandemic set back this effort considerably. Many clinics which offered breast cancer screenings diverted or temporarily discontinued their services. More women stayed home than ever before, abiding by the lockdowns which characterized the early stages of the pandemic and fearful of what might happen if they sought preventative medical care. For some individuals, the pandemic influenced their decision to put off being screened and this postponement cost them valuable time in the fight against cancer. Breast cancer screening rates have yet to return to their pre-pandemic numbers and that’s why we’re doing everything we can to spread awareness. We understand the last two years have been hectic and unpredictable. However, the wonderful thing about breast cancer screenings is they take an average of thirty minutes. We think thirty minutes is a worthy trade-off for the value offered by breast cancer screening results. If you’re interested in learning more about the impact the coronavirus had on breast cancer, read our most recent article here! Today, we’re diving deep into one of our advanced skincare technologies—excel® V+ by Cutera. This laser-based treatment is incredibly popular among our patients and with good reason! Similarly to Secret RF (which we provided a comprehensive explanation of here), excel V+ can resurface the skin, bringing you one step closer to your aesthetic goals with each session. In this article, we’ll discuss how excel V+ uses laser technology to target common skin concerns. We’ll answer any questions you may have about what excel V+ can and cannot be used for. We’ll delve into a few potential side-effects, as well as how many sessions are needed to see significant results. We believe patients should have a clear understanding of their treatment, as this empowers them to make the best decisions concerning their aesthetic care. If you’re interested in learning more about excel V+, read on! What can excel V+ be used for? We think the better question is: What can’t excel V+ be used for? This technology specializes in targeting vascular and pigment-based issues, both of which are commonly the root cause of skin concerns. For example, excel V+ might be used to target spot hyperpigmentation such as sunspots or freckles. On the other hand, rosacea and broken blood vessels are also fair game for excel V+. The common thread between all skin ailments capable of being treated with excel V+ is their color. We’ll explain this more in detail in the next section, but simply put: the wavelengths featured in the excel V+ laser are absorbed more readily by reds and browns, then secondarily by blues and purples. Therefore, certain scars, leg veins, or angiomas can be treated by excel V+, too. Here’s a comprehensive list of eligible ailments: rosacea, angiomas, port wine stains, scars, poikiloderma or sun aging, venous lakes, facial veins, freckles, dermatosis papulosa nigra (DPN), spider veins, skin tags, acne scars, and wrinkles. How does excel V+ work? As we mentioned briefly during the last section, the magic of excel V+ is derived from the lasers used. Laser treatments are incredibly diverse in their intended effect. As you know, lasers can be used to remove hair, melt fat, stimulate collagen production, and resurface the skin. However, the specific purpose of a laser comes down almost entirely to its wavelength. The wavelength of a laser is responsible for allowing the laser to penetrate deeper into the skin, deliver more precise power, and be absorbed by the correct recipient. In the case of excel V+, these recipients are the chromophores (or colors) present in browns and reds within the skin. In other words, melanin, oxyhemoglobin (or oxygen-rich blood), and water. The excel V+ operates at two wavelengths: 532 nm and 1064 nm (“nm” standing for nanometers). Are you still with us? The 532 nm wavelength is absorbed the fastest and thus is used to target vascular lesions on the surface of the skin. This is the wavelength most likely to be used on rosacea, general redness, and spider veins. Now, the 1064 nm wavelength on the other hand, is absorbed more slowly and thus is used to treat vascular lesions much deeper within the skin (and legs). This is the wavelength most likely to be used on venous lakes, venous malformations, and visible veins. Both of these wavelengths are scientifically more effective than other wavelengths (such as 595 nm) at targeting the skin concerns mentioned above. For this reason, excel V+ is an award-winning cosmetic application. Now, the excel V+ wavelengths can also be distributed at varying widths, ranging from 16mm (or the size of a dime) to 2mm (or one-eighth the circumference of a dime). This gives the professional utilizing the machine plenty of control over the area they’re targeting and minimizes “collateral tissue damage.” The excel V+ also has an integrated smart cooling system, which allows the professional to adjust the temperature of the contact tip, which is the only portion of the machine which comes into physical contact with the patient. The excel V+ can be used on any skin type, which makes this laser technology a safe option for those of a darker complexion. What can you expect from your excel V+ treatment? Most treatment sessions with excel V+ take between fifteen to thirty minutes, but the length of your treatment session will depend almost entirely upon the size of the area being treated. You can expect to feel the laser slightly, but any discomfort associated with the procedure shouldn’t escalate to pain. Topical anesthesia can be applied to the treatment site beforehand by your medical provider, should you request, and the excel V+ cooling system should prevent the heat of the laser from becoming too uncomfortable. After your treatment session is over, you can return to your regularly scheduled activities. This includes work, school, shopping, and exercising. While you may experience increased redness or minor swelling around the treatment area, this shouldn’t interfere with any plans you may have. There are no other side effects associated with excel V+, making this treatment incredibly easy and beginner-friendly. How many treatments do you need to undergo before you see results? One treatment session can be enough to see a visible difference in your skin concern. However, often, two or three treatment sessions are required to achieve the satisfactory resolution of certain skin concerns. Your medical provider can and should formulate a plan for handling your treatment, so you can plan in advance for multiple sessions. These sessions should be placed at least one month apart, ideally. In the days and weeks after your initial treatment, brown spots will initially darken and then “slough off.” Waiting between treatment sessions gives the skin time to recalibrate, heal, and work towards the end result you’re hoping for! The excel V+ Laser Genesis by Cutera is considered to be among the best technology available for the cosmetic treatment of vascular and pigment-based skin concerns. We’re excited and happy to be able to share this service with you! You can schedule an initial consultation to discuss excel V+ further or go ahead and book your first appointment through our website. If you have any specific questions about this service, we would be more than happy to answer them! Thank you for reading and we hope you’ll visit The Breast Place blog again soon!  Hello, Warriors! Welcome to The Breast Place blog and thank you for taking time out of your active schedule to visit! We appreciate our readers to the utmost degree, as we do our patients. Hopefully, you’re taking advantage of the current climate and enjoying our lovely city in autumn. If this is your first visit to The Breast Place blog, we cover a range of topics here. From breast cancer management to anti-aging skin treatments to helpful tips for maximizing your overall health and wellness—The Breast Place is committed to sharing the best health practices and treatment options with you! Our offices are open and our staff are prepared to answer any questions you may have about your health, your breast cancer risk, and how to reach your aesthetic goals.
Before we dive too deeply into today’s topic, we’d like to make you aware of a few promotions available at The Breast Place this holiday season. We are partnering with Kendra Scott for their virtual charity event. On November 20th and 21st, you’ll receive a 20% discount on your purchased items when you use the code GIVEBACK-BAYSM at checkout. All proceeds will be donated to the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer organization. To read more about the event, you can visit their site. In December, we’ll be premiering a revamped BOGO--buy one gift one. You can schedule a discounted treatment session for yourself and a loved one after Black Friday. Keep a close eye on our social media for more information on our BOGO sale! We’ll also be offering a few early Black Friday sales, valid through November 22nd and November 24th. To learn about those, follow Empower on Instagram and Facebook! Our last blog was dedicated to detailing the wonderful effects of truSculpt iD, a patented body contouring technology available here at The Breast Place. This fat-targeting treatment utilizes monopolar radio frequencies to melt fat and tighten the skin. Compared to similar body contouring techniques, truSculpt iD is quicker, painless, and effective. We explained how best to use the procedure and how long it’ll take you to see results. Everyone knows you cannot spot-reduce through exercise. Therefore, if you’ve been staying active and eating a well-balanced diet, but still cannot seem to lose stubborn pockets of fat, truSculpt iD is the perfect treatment for you! Today, we’re exploring a serious topic. October was National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and many organizations made a concerted effort to spread the word concerning the importance of screenings and mammograms. This effort couldn’t have come at a better time, as recently published research is now beginning to draw a clear picture of the effect the pandemic had on screening rates. We want to do our part and take a closer look at how the pandemic has affected the breast cancer awareness movement, accessibility to screenings, rates of diagnosis, and more. Hopefully, this will inspire a few of you who have been putting off your screenings for the last year or two to schedule an appointment! Impact of COVID on Breast Cancer Screenings The outbreak of the coronavirus saw Americans spending countless days inside their homes, avoiding large crowds, and forgoing social interaction for the sake of slowing the deadly spread. While quarantine was for a good purpose, many individuals postponed activities which would mean leaving the safety of their homes, including breast cancer screenings. The issue of declining screenings is multifaceted, as is its effect on breast cancer, meaning we’ll have to break down the impact into its individual parts. The first part is how rates of breast cancer, diagnosed and undiagnosed, have been rising in recent years. To be clear, breast cancer is considered to be a modern-day epidemic. One in eight American women are predicted to develop invasive breast cancer in their lifetimes. And, while the rate of death associated with invasive breast cancer has remained steady or decreased in recent decades, the rate of breast cancer development has only increased. Since 2008, breast cancer development has increased by 20%. Breast cancer is now the most common cancer worldwide and accounts for 12% of all new cancer cases according to the World Health Organization. While no one knows for sure why breast cancer is such a prevalent disease and why rates are increasing, several environmental and lifestyle factors are currently being studied to assess their effect on breast cancer development. The second part of understanding the impact of COVID on breast cancer screenings is understanding the role time plays in survival rates. According to the American Cancer Society, when women are diagnosed with localized breast cancers, their five-year survival rate is 99%. This figure means these women are 99% more likely than someone their age without a form of localized breast cancer to survive the next five years. For women diagnosed with regionalized breast cancers, their five-year survival rate is 86%. For women diagnosed with distant breast cancers, their five-year survival rate is 28%. As you can see, the declining trend is directly correlated to the containment or spread of the cancer. Therefore, early diagnosis is perhaps the best means of preventing deaths related to breast cancer. Now, given the increasing rates of breast cancer among women worldwide and given the importance of diagnosing breast cancer as early as possible, you can fully understand how detrimental the pandemic was to the fight against breast cancer. According to a report released by the American College of Radiology, breast cancer screenings decreased by a whopping 70% worldwide during the pandemic. This decline affected low-income areas disproportionately. The American Cancer Society performed their own study among lower income groups and found an 8% decrease between July 2019 and July 2020. “This study is important because these populations have long-standing barriers to accessing care, lower breast screening rates, higher breast cancer [death] rates, and are especially vulnerable to health care disruptions,” the leader of the American Cancer Society study, Stacey Fedewa, was quoted as saying. In this study alone, the decrease resulted in at least 242 missed breast cancer diagnoses. Many health facilities, including screening sites, closed during the early days of the pandemic or temporarily discontinued screening services to redirect their resources to assisting with the pandemic. The CDC published a study in Preventative Medicine examining the impact of COVID on their National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program. What they found was, between January 2020 and June 2020, the number of breast cancer screening tests declined 86% in metro areas, 88% in urban areas, and 89% in rural areas. Declines disportionately effects different ethnic groups, as well, with an 84% decrease in breast cancer screenings of Hispanic women, a 98% decrease in screenings among American Indian/Alaskan Native women, an 82% decrease in screenings among Black women, and a 92% decrease in screenings among Asian Pacific islander women. The lead author of the study, Amy DeGroff, PhD, MPH, said, “This study highlights a decline in cancer screening among women of racial and ethnic minority groups with low incomes when their access to medical services decreased at the beginning of the pandemic.” Regarding the personal impact this decrease in breast cancer screenings had on individuals, Melannie Bachman is a prime example. She was working as a freediving and certified yoga instructor in North Charleston when she felt a lump during a self-exam. Slamming with work due to layoffs during the pandemic, Bachman postponed going to the doctor. Nine months later, the lump had grown and begun to change shape. Without health insurance or disposable income, she made an appointment with the Department of Health. Bachman was soon diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent four months of chemotherapy before finally receiving a bilateral mastectomy. When asked about her experience, Backman had this to say: “I was one of those who put off my screenings and I am so grateful that we caught it at stage two. But if I had waited a month longer, or even a few weeks longer… Triple-negative breast cancer is the fastest-growing, fastest-spreading, most deadly breast cancer.” To learn more about Melannie Bachman’s story and to hear from our very own Dr. Jennifer Beatty, check out this article! To conclude, the pandemic presented a unique challenge to patients and medical professionals alike. As we rebuild in the wake of COVID-19, bringing breast cancer screening rate back up to pre-pandemic levels is more important than ever. Breast cancer is not a death sentence. Breast cancer can and should be diagnosed in a timely manner to allow you a host of treatment options, a better chance at survival, and an easier recovery. At The Breast Place, nothing is more important to us than encouraging regular breast screenings. As you’ve seen here today, increased rates of screening can save lives. Reach out to us to schedule your free consultation! In addition to screening services, we have advanced technologies to perform breast imaging, if necessary. We look forward to hearing from you! Thanks for reading. Until next time!  Hello, Warriors! Welcome to The Breast Place blog and thank you for taking time out of your active schedule to visit! We appreciate our readers to the utmost degree, as we do our patients. Hopefully, you’re taking advantage of the current climate and enjoying our lovely city in autumn. If this is your first visit to The Breast Place blog, we cover a range of topics here. From breast cancer management to anti-aging skin treatments to helpful tips for maximizing your overall health and wellness—The Breast Place is committed to sharing the best health practices and treatment options with you! Our offices are open and our staff are prepared to answer any questions you may have about your health, your breast cancer risk, and how to reach your aesthetic goals.
Our last article, ‘Scars and Skin Resurfacing,’ explored the various treatments available to those living with scars. From stretch marks to acne scars to burns—we detailed how different scars form within the layers of the skin. While select scars require invasive surgeries or skin grafts, the vast majority of scars can be treated with minimally invasive techniques, such as laser treatment and microneedling. We quoted research concerning the effect scars can have on our mental health, our confidence, and our day-to-day lives. Finally, we broke down just how advanced technologies like Secret RF penetrate deep within the skin to promote collagen production and stimulate healing. Skin resurfacing can improve skin texture, discoloration, and fine lines, in addition to making scars less noticeable. If you’ve been living with a scar you want gone, we suggest reading our last article to learn more about the options available to you! Today, we’re highlighting another high-functioning aesthetic technology; the truSculpt iD from Cutera. Many individuals are interested in the benefits of body contouring, but are wary of mystical, “quick fix” treatments for weight loss. Well, we’re here to demystify the process of body sculpting. There’s no magic involved. Like other body contouring treatments, truSculpt is based in science. We want to explain how the treatment can help you melt off stubborn fat and tighten loose skin, giving you the results you’ve been striving for. In this article, we’ll also answer the most commonly asked questions about the procedure. What are the side effects? Does truSculpt actually work? How often should you receive treatment? Will the fat come back if you choose to stop treatment? How long will it take to see results? We’ll answer all of these questions and more, as we want you to feel fully-informed and confident about your decision to try body contouring. If you’ve been interested in this treatment for a while but weren’t totally sure you should go through with scheduling an appointment, this article is definitely for you! How does truSculpt iD work? Similar to Secret RF, truSculpt iD utilizes radio frequencies to achieve its stellar results. By sending low-frequency radio waves through the skin, truSculpt iD targets the fat layer underneath. The fat cells absorb the energy of the radio waves and begin to heat rapidly. When they reach a certain temperature, they become irreversibly damaged. Over the weeks following treatment, the damaged cells undergo apoptosis, or cell death. The body works to break down and eliminate the now dead tissue and, there you have it: fat loss. Now, you’re probably asking yourself, how hot are these radio waves to essentially melt fat? Not as hot as you would think, actually. The radio waves are delivered uniformly to a sizable portion of skin. The skin is pressed to the underside of truSculpt iD’s applicators. These applicators constantly monitor the temperature of the patient’s skin, maintaining an ideal temperature of 43-45°C (109-113°F). While those numbers may seem quite high, keep in mind 159.8°F is the temperature at which skin burns and 145.4°F is the temperature used for hot wax in physical therapies. The temperature at which truSculpt iD operates is often compared to a heated massage. While you may sweat during treatment, you are unlikely to feel pain. So, how does truSculpt iD kill fat cells without the rest of our cells ending up as collateral damage? Simply put, the radio frequencies used by truSculpt iD are specifically designed to bypass nerves, blood vessels, and other kinds of tissue besides fat. TruSculpt iD targets the subcutaneous layer of fat, or up to 1.5 cm beneath the skin’s surface. According to clinical studies, the procedure induced fat necrosis at this level and resulted in significant fat reduction. Deemed safe by the FDA for body contouring use performed by certified professionals, truSculpt iD is a safe means for spot-reducing fat. In fact, twelve weeks post-treatment, the average amount of fat loss for truSculpt iD patients is 24% in the targeted area. Two of the best aspects of TruSculpt iD are its ease-of-use and quickness. There are numerous body sculpting or contouring technologies available on the market, such as Coolsculpting and Sculpsure, but only truSculpt iD takes a short fifteen minutes per session. Equipped with six applicators, each of which covers 300 cubic centimeters, the treatment area can include an entire abdomen or flank simultaneously. And, because the treatment time is so brief, you can squeeze multiple treatments into a single afternoon! Another wonderful feature of TruSculpt iD is its skin-tightening capabilities. Fat loss—especially sudden fat loss—can lead to loose skin or even stretch marks. This is because the rapidity of the fat loss doesn’t leave the skin enough time to tighten naturally. Well, TruSculpt iD uses a type of radio frequency known as monopolar radio frequency. Monopolar basically means the radio frequencies are being emitted by a single pole. Monopolar radio frequency technologies have been approved by the FDA for skin tightening purposes. Since these waves tighten the skin, you don’t have to worry about loose skin in the areas you’re looking to sculpt. The treatment is simple and straight-forward. After a medical practitioner has prepared the targeted area for treatment, they’ll place the TruSculpt iD panels. A grounding pad will also be placed onto your back to ensure the conductivity necessary for the panels to work properly. For about fifteen minutes or so, you’ll feel like you have a heating pad pressed to the treatment area. Some people quite enjoy the feeling (especially in a cold treatment room)! Once finished, you’re done! The side effects of TruSculpt iD are minimal. You may experience temporary redness around the treatment site or feel a lump. Any lump is likely to disappear with time and gentle rubbing. You may experience a bit of swelling or tenderness, but this shouldn’t last longer than twenty-four hours after treatment. Bruising isn’t common, nor is excessive soreness, therefore consult your practitioner if you experience either. You should drink plenty of water, but TruSculpt iD won’t keep you from continuing with normal day-to-day activities. There’s no downtime or recovery. After your fifteen minutes are up, you’re free to resume your life. Since all of the clinical studies regarding TruSculpt iD’s effectiveness have been based on a twelve-week period, we recommend waiting this long to judge results. Tell that to the people who say body sculpting is a “quick fix.” While some people may require the entire twelve weeks to see any changes, others find the effect of the treatment to be noticeable after five or six weeks. If you do choose to undergo a second or third treatment session, it is recommended you wait the requisite twelve weeks and consult the medical practitioner who performed your first treatment for assessment. Body sculpting isn’t like laser hair treatment, which must be maintained every few months to ensure optimal results. Ideally, you’ll book an appointment to address a specific area of your body where you’re struggling to see results from eating healthily and exercising. Body contouring will help spot-reduce the fat in the targeted area. Body contouring will not, and should not, be used as a substitute for a well-balanced diet and exercise. While the fat cells destroyed by TruSculpt iD will not suddenly reappear, you can gain fat back in the areas which were spot reduced. The holiday season and the new year are the most popular times to undergo body sculpting. “New year, new me,” right? But it’s never too early or late to invest in the body you want. If you’ve been struggling with a belly pouch, love handles, or any other fat deposit, and your desire is to see how your body would look sans those three to five pounds--TruSculpt iD is waiting for you! The Breast Place offers sculpting services, performed by certified medical professionals, for your body sculpting needs! Reach out to schedule your consultation, where we can discuss your aesthetic goals and share more information about TruSculpt iD with you! The Breast Place is committed to empowering women. We want you to look and feel your absolute best! Thank you for taking the time to read today’s article and we hope you’ll check back in for future posts about treatments, wellness, and more!  This special post is the wonderful work of Amy Gesell, a survivor who received treatment at The Breast Place. Amy was kind enough to write about her experience, from her initial diagnosis through her recovery. What we stand to gain from listening to the accounts of survivors is a deeper understanding of how cancer diagnoses affect mental health, how community is an essential aspect of the healing process, and the importance of regular screenings. This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we wanted to shine a spotlight on some of our incredible survivors. Thank you, Amy, for sharing your story!
"In January of this year, I went to my GP for a “check-in and a check-up” about my physical AND mental health. I’d been unusually moody, short-tempered, was hungry all the time, gaining weight…all things we sort of chalked up to my age (46). Having no solid history on when women in my family begin menopause, I naturally assumed that this was where I was headed. Also, I’d been having pain in the left side of my chest, which left me wondering if I was headed for heart trouble. But there was also something else…this odd undercurrent that something was definitely NOT okay. I just couldn’t effectively communicate what that feeling was, so I was left stomping around my house, angry and frustrated, which is a complete 180 degree turn from my normal personality. It was THAT feeling, the one that I couldn’t express, that caused my husband to encourage me to make an appointment with his doctor. I resisted, initially. We live in a very rural area and it is a major pain to go in to town, get to know a new doctor, etc. Plus, I’d seen a different physician in that town once, years before, who was nice enough, but the follow up was lacking, so I never bothered to go back. Plus, I was sort of raised with this weird distaste for hypochondria. I had a cousin who thought she was dying every time she had a cold…she still thinks that way…and we still make fun of her for it. My point being - my belief was that if you’re not REALLY sick, don’t pester the doctor. My husband’s encouragement and his concern over my mental health as well as my overall physical health helped me override this aversion to physicians and I agreed that he could make an appointment for me to see his physician, Dr. Gunther Rencken…who has literally turned out to be a life saver. I walked into Dr. Rencken’s office with notebook and a litany of complaints. He patiently went through them one by one, helping me understand that I wasn’t going crazy. But, when we started to discuss my chest pain, he asked me the most important question of my life: “When was your last mammogram?” “Well, I had one last year. And it was normal. Well…normal for me. I mean, the guy called me back for more imaging, at which time he told me that he saw a spot that was probably just scar tissue from a previous lumpectomy of what was a benign tumor.” And truly, I wasn’t worried at the time. I have fibrocystic breasts and for the whole of my life, had been running to physicians about the latest “lump,” only to discover it was “just a cyst.” I expected this to be the answer to all of my lumps for the rest of my life. Besides, I’d always read that chest pain was NOT a sign of breast cancer…right? My new doc then did something unexpected. He asked me to consider allowing him to, since I was already there, give me a breast exam (with a nurse present, of course) and especially the breast that had “the scar tissue.” I agreed and the look on his face as he palpated my left breast woke that little voice that had been begging for my attention for months: something, in fact, was not right. He tried to reassure me by saying “Look, this could be nothing. It could absolutely be scar tissue. But rather than subject you to another mammogram, I’m going to refer you to a great doctor that specializes in this. Would you be willing to go see her? She is in Charleston, but it will be worth your time.” I agreed. I received a phone call from Dr. Jennifer Beatty’s office at The Breast Place that very afternoon and they put me on the books ASAP. A week later, I was in her office, oscillating between fear (OMG, I could have breast cancer) and shame (OMG, I’m making a big deal over nothing.) Dr. Beatty and her staff did (and still do) everything within their power to alleviate you of any shame or embarrassment you may be feeling. They also allow you to accept your fear. It’s shocking to realize how powerful you can become when you are given permission and/or the support to look into the face of your fear and say “I feel you.” Because, oddly, the minute you accept that you are afraid, the fear subsides a bit. Your heart rate slows. You breathe deeper. And I was breathing deeply when Dr. Beatty showed me what she was seeing on my ultrasound. I was breathing deeply when Dr. Beatty performed a painless (and when I say painless, I mean ZERO pain) needle biopsy. And I took a deep breath when she personally called me, less than 24 hours later, to tell me that I did, indeed, have invasive ductal carcinoma. It was really late in the afternoon and my husband was in the shower. I left him a note saying that I was going to the barn. And I did. I swept, I cleaned the windows in the tack room, I polished the wood on the walls, cleaned some tack and watched the sun touch down on the horizon and wash everything in gold. How could this horrible moment be so beautiful? Not everyone may have this experience, and I’m sorry for that. But truly, the only thing I could do in that moment was be quiet, be gentle, and appreciate the beauty of the sun going down. It took me four more hours after returning home to screw up the courage to tell my husband. Only two years prior, he’d lost both of his parents to cancer, 12 weeks apart, not knowing until their last days that they had cancer. (His mother, a rare and fast spreading uterine cancer and his father, a tough old Texan who’d had cancer for some time and had simply never shared that fact with his family.) When I said the word “carcinoma” to him, he grew very pale and asked me what that meant. It took me days to realize that he thought that it meant that I was going to die…and soon. My heart broke for him more than my own. I mean, I love myself and I don’t want to die any time soon and certainly not from THIS, but it was in that moment that I realized that, no matter the outcome, he was going to suffer, too. Dr. Beatty is a take charge, no b.s. leader and I am convinced that this is why I have fared so well. She and Dr. Rencken had me with orders for CT scans, MRI and bone scans before we made our plan of attack. Once the scans gave us the all clear, we moved forward with the plan of: Nipple sparing mastectomy of the left breast. Two weeks healing time (my tumor was really close to the skin, so we wanted some time to get the blood flowing to all the right places) and a replacement implant. Radiation I’d be on the beach by the end of the summer! But life, as we have already learned, holds lots of surprises for us. The presence of cancer cells were found in one of the lymph nodes removed during my mastectomy…so our plans had to change and another soldier was engaged to help me keep marching forward. Dr. Beatty worked with Dr. Yannis Bellil, an oncologist in Charleston. We then changed our plan of attack. To use his terminology, we, via mastectomy, had “plucked the dandelion from the green at the Masters Course (golf reference).” Now, we had to cast about to make sure no more dandelions were going to pop up. I engaged in four sessions of chemotherapy, each delivered three weeks apart. Some women tough it out and it doesn’t disrupt their lives in the slightest. Some women have days where they’re bad, but some good. Some women stay very near a toilet and refuse food and water and have to get fluids administered to them every time they show up for chemo because…well…that’s just how their bodies handle it. (Me. I was that woman.) To say that chemo was hard on me is an understatement. I don’t know why I didn’t handle it well, but for the three weeks between, I did not eat for two and then ate like Michael Phelps prepping for the Olympics for the third in order to maintain a good weight. I lost weight, but never so much that medical intervention was necessary. Also, I would have odd reactions two weeks in: my lips and eyes would swell as if stung by bees or something. So EXTRA steroids always had to be on hand. There were days when I thought: “Yep. You’re dying. This is it. They were wrong. You’re a dead duck.” And as the chemotherapy dissipated from my system, I’d get strong again and think “What the hell was that? You’re not a dead duck! You’re a roaring tiger! A bucking, Hancock-bred chestnut mare! (Horse people will get that.) You’re FINE.” And then we’d start all over again. Speaking of which, I don’t ever WANT to do it again…but looking at the quality of my life right now, I would do it all over again in a heart beat. Then came radiation! Ahhhhh! Radiation! The longest shortest treatment of one’s cancer life! Every day, I would make the 1.5 hour drive to Charleston, kick back and practically fall asleep as the radiation techs told me to “breathe in, hold it, breathe out.” (Which I still hear in my sleep…) Between my radiation oncologist, Dr. Clay’s, bright and funny attitude and the incredibly kind staff, radiation was a breeze. Costco sized tubs of Aquaphor helped my skin stay pretty unscathed, too. I’ve heard that some women suffer terribly during radiation. I am fortunately not one of those women. I am what Dr. Rencken promised me. I am what Dr. Beatty promised me. I am what Dr. Bellil promised me. I am what Dr. Clay promised me. I am what I promised my husband I would be: I am okay. I am. Do I have days where the panic hits me and I stress over whether it’s coming back for me? Yes. Do I work myself into a frenzy over things like “toxins” in everything from my water to my cosmetics? Yes. Am I afraid that if I indulge in a full-fat, whole milk vanilla latte, that an army of cancer cells will awaken and attack me once more? Of course. Am I obsessing over how close to perfect my plastic surgeon can make my breasts look after having been through so much trauma? Absolutely. (And on some days, absolutely not. If it ever came down to “Living Flat vs. Dying with Curves,” I’m choosing living flat. I understand that not everyone will understand that, but it’s my own choice.) Do I get that awful crushing feeling in my chest when I hear that someone that I even tangentially know has died from breast cancer? Or that I get sick to my stomach when I remember that one of my “cancer buddies” has metastatic breast cancer and there’s nothing anyone can do other than what they’re already doing? Yes, yes, and yes. Also, I need to say this: my cancer was a slow growing type and I probably had it for quite some time before I was diagnosed. I am still not fully recovered from chemo and surgeries, but I still PHYSICALLY feel better than I have in two years. I suspect that the phantom “exhaustion” I was feeling for the two years prior to my diagnosis had something to do with the fact that I had cancer. Maybe. Maybe not. Oh! And the hair thing? Shit. I thought it was going to break my heart. It didn’t. I may never have “mermaid hair” again, but I didn’t look terrible bald, I didn’t look bad in the “GI Jane stage,” and, frankly, it’s been fun wearing wigs with hats on occasion. (Wigs alone didn’t work for me. They always looked “wiggy.” This may not be the case for everyone!) If you’re still reading this, here are some things I want you to know: Yes. I still hate a hypochondriac…but what I think about hypochondriacs isn’t any of your business. IF YOU FEEL OFF, GO SEE YOUR DOCTOR. If you have a family history of not just breast cancer, but ANY gynecological issues (PPMD, raging PMS, heavy bleeding, fibroids, etc.) ask your physician about what you can do for earlier screenings for breast and other gynecological cancer. Correlation is not causation, but I am convinced that my life-long hormonal issues absolutely have something to do with me being susceptible to the type of cancer I had. If I’m wrong, your doctor can tell you…BUT ASK. Get to know your breasts. If you have a fibroid issue like I did, ask your physician to help you learn about the difference in the “feel” of a cyst vs. “something else.” And always schedule an appointment if something new pops up. Don’t feel that you’re “a bother.” DOCTORS WANT TO HELP YOU. And they would love to help you before the situation is dire. So please, don’t forget regular check ups…hell, schedule them on your birthday as one friend of mine does. That way, you never skip it! I will admit that I have some ways to go before I feel that I can “move on” from this. I’ll be looking into the face of fear every day for at least the next five years before I can breathe easy again. I’m on a hormone blocker, menopause hit me like a ton of bricks, but shockingly, I am not miserable. And I will never be miserable again. My doctors went out of their way, they worked hard, they organized, they pulled together, they DROVE ME through the scariest thing that has ever happened to me and by doing so, gave me the power to keep putting one foot in front of the other when I was weak and to swing out with every jab and punch I had when I was strong. I owe it to THEM and to MYSELF to take the life I have left and enjoy it. Despite the occasional fears, control issues and neuroses that pop up, I am still happy. I am healthier every day, and I am alive. xoxo Amy Gesell"  Hello, Warriors! Welcome to The Breast Place blog and thank you for taking time out of your active schedule to visit! We appreciate our readers to the utmost degree, as we do our patients. Hopefully, you’re taking advantage of the current climate and enjoying our lovely city in autumn. If this is your first visit to The Breast Place blog, we cover a range of topics here. From breast cancer management to anti-aging skin treatments to helpful tips for maximizing your overall health and wellness—The Breast Place is committed to sharing the best health practices and treatment options with you! Our offices are open and our staff are prepared to answer any questions you may have about your health, your breast cancer risk, and how to reach your aesthetic goals.
October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and, as such, we dedicated our last post to exploring the history and meaning of this observance. NBCAM hasn’t been around for long, but its impact on women’s health cannot be understated. As we work towards a cure for breast cancer, we must also normalize regular screening and take time to listen to the stories of survivors. By doing so, we can help save lives. We included a list of ways you can help support breast cancer awareness this month, even if you’re unable to donate or join a race. If you’re interested in understanding the breast cancer awareness movement, there’s no better resource! Definitely check out our last article when you’re done here! Today’s topic concerns scars. Scars can be painful reminders of the past, unsightly blemishes, or as unremarked upon as freckles. However, what most scars have in common, is their seeming permanence. Many of us resign ourselves to living with our scars for the rest of our lives, regardless of their impact on our day-to-day activities and self-esteem. We’re here to help alleviate this misconception. Not all scars are permanent. In fact, most scars can be significantly improved through focused treatment and the right regimen. From surgery scars to stretch marks to acne scars to burns—almost all scars can be helped by skin resurfacing. We’ll talk about how scars form, their effect on mental health, how resurfacing can help, and finally what we offer at our practice. There’s no need to live in discomfort, try various at-home remedies with little success, or accept the intrusive presence of scars. There are options and we’re here to help! If you have a scar you’ve been wanting to be rid of for years, this article is certainly for you. Without further ado, let’s delve into what scars are and where they form within the skin! What are scars? When an injury of any kind occurs, our bodies work diligently to fix the damage. Therefore, scars can be considered the side effect of our bodies performing their healing duties well. However, sometimes, our bodies can perform a little too well. In these instances, people develop what are called keloid scars—smooth, hard growths made up of scar tissue. Keloids can occur anywhere on the body, can be genetically derived, and can be difficult to get rid of. Since keloids can grow back larger than before when merely cut off, they usually require the expertise of a medical provider, who will suggest some type of dressing, injection, or removal surgery. Keloids are one of the only types of scars which will not always benefit from laser treatment or other skin resurfacing methods, as these can make the scarring worse. If you’re not prone to developing keloids, chances are you’re saddled with a run-of-the-mill scar. A cut, burn, boil, ulcer, or any other form of trauma to the skin, will trigger the body’s healing response. In order to close the cut or injured site, the body essentially “stitches” the skin together with scar tissue. Scar tissue is a collection of proteins, primarily collagen. Now, a hypertrophic scar is the scientific name for these formations of scar tissue. Hypertrophic scars will usually heal over time, leaving only a faint indentation or discoloration to prove it was ever there. However, this dissolution process can take years. Whereas, contracture scars are the scientific name for severe burn injuries. Contracture is the process certain burn scars undergo, when the skin thickens, pulling the surrounding tissue taught and preventing freedom of movement. While laser treatment is an option, for most contracture scars, a plastic surgeon will recommend removing the scar tissue entirely. Stretch marks are also a type of scar. When the skin stretches or shrinks abruptly, the underlying layer of collagen and elastin fibers rupture. This rupture is visible even through the uppermost layer of the skin, the epidermis. These can occur during pregnancy, puberty, weight loss, and weight gain. Similarly, acne scars occur when the walls of an inflamed pore rupture, causing damage to the surrounding tissue. Cysts and nodules, present in severe acne, occur deep within the dermis and can cause intense scarring. Both stretch marks and acne scars alike are aesthetic concerns which can drastically affect people’s lives. In the next section, we’ll discuss the psychological impact scars can have on us. The Effect of Scars A short study, titled ‘The Psychology of Scar: A Mini-Review’ by Mildred Ngaage and Mark Agius, featured in a 2018 edition of Psychiatria Danubina, noted the effect of scars on self-confidence is overwhelmingly negative. According to the study, individuals with scars can undergo “a remodeling of their emotional state and are more prone to the development of depression and anxiety,” as well as feelings of shame. Due to a sense of perceived inadequacy, those with scars can find they are unable to communicate effectively, cultivate intimacy, and resist avoidant behaviors. While most people have several scars located in various places across their bodies, those with highly visible scars report feeling “othered.” In another study in the Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery, of the 573 statements collected by researchers, these were the common themes: physical comfort, acceptance from self and others, social functioning, confidence and management of condition, and emotional well-being. The majority of participants in the study felt their scars negatively affected every single one of these areas. High visibility, uncommon textures, and high contrast contribute to people’s uncomfortableness with their own scars. While there’s nothing out of the ordinary or shameful about having scars, their ability to stunt your growth and mitigate your sense of self-worth cannot be underestimated. How does skin resurfacing work? There are several forms of skin resurfacing available for the treatment of scars. The most common and least invasive method of resurfacing scars in laser treatment. This method utilizes focused light therapy to increase cell turnover and rid the skin of damaged cells. The second most common and slightly more invasive technique is microneedling. This method uses thin, hair-like needles to invoke the body's healing response and increase the production of collagen (as well as new cells). The Breast Place offers the best of both worlds with Secret RF. Secret RF is a microneedling device combined with fractional radio frequency. A type of dermal remodeling, Secret RF works by causing tissue coagulation and hemostasis. Tissue coagulation is the means by which hemostasis—stopping the flow of blood—occurs. Consider our previous explanation of what a scar is and how it forms as a result of the body’s healing process. In the same manner the scar formed, Secret RF technology is able to reverse the process. Secret RF can penetrate the skin at various depths (from 0.5 mm to 3.5 mm), allowing technicians to tailor each treatment to the type of scar being treated. Once embedded, the insulated needles then deliver high-frequency radio waves directly into the skin. These frequencies, in addition to the creation of “micro wounds,” stimulate the skin to repair itself. The treatment can be done in under twenty minutes and with minimal pain, yet yields significant improvements in both skin quality and texture. We hope we’ve given you the information you need to make an informed decision concerning your treatment options. If a scar is currently impacting your quality of life, do not hesitate to reach out to us for a consultation. We’ll give you even more information on the procedure and how long it will take to see results. Our kind staff are here to help walk you through every step of the way. Give us a call or fill out one of the contact forms scattered around our website and we’ll be in touch! Thank you for reading and we hope you’ll return for our future articles!  Hello, Warriors! Thank you for taking time out of your active schedule to visit The Breast Place blog. Welcome! We hope you’re feeling well and taking advantage of the wonderful fall weather gracing our lovely city. If this is your first visit to The Breast Place blog, we cover a range of topics here. From breast cancer management to anti-aging skin treatments to helpful tips for maximizing your overall health and wellness, The Breast Place is committed to sharing the best health practices and treatment options with you!
Our previous posts about male breast cancer and breast reconstruction surgery are available for your reading pleasure! Increasing awareness for male breast cancer, as well as identifying the differences in how male breast cancer presents in comparison to female breast cancer, is part of our attempt to catch cancer early. That’s what Breast Cancer Awareness Month is all about! Likewise, informing women of their reconstruction options post-mastectomy, as well as reminding women of the communities available for sharing their experiences, is part of our attempt to support survivors. If you’re interested in those efforts or know someone you might benefit from those articles, definitely give them a read! Today, in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we want to take a closer look at how this observance was formed, its history, and who this observance has helped. After a brief history lesson, stick around for a few interesting statistics and ways you can help support the numerous charities operating this October. As well, we’d like to remind you that Botox for Breasts is currently running a charitable promotion which The Breast Place is taking part in. For every unit of Botox, one dollar will be donated to help support breast cancer survivors! We hope to see you in the office soon! Without further ado, let’s discover how Breast Cancer Awareness Month was created! The History Behind Breast Cancer Awareness Month National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, also known as NBCAM, is an observance recognized worldwide annually. Various charities band together every October to raise money for continued research and treatment development. While finding a cure for breast cancer is the ultimate goal, the month also serves to increase awareness for breast cancer, encourage preventative measures, and increase the number of early diagnosis. The awareness part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month promotes self-breast exams and breast imaging, which increases men and women’s likelihood of being diagnosed in the early stages of the disease. This, in turn, can save lives. Founded in 1985, National Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a relatively new addition to the list of national observances. Developed by the American Cancer Society and the pharmaceutical division of what is now AstraZeneca, both institutions sought to make mammograms a staple in the fight against breast cancer. Where does the pink ribbon come in? The pink ribbon which is commonly associated with Breast Cancer Awareness Month actually wasn’t introduced until later. First, in 1991, the Susan G. Komen Foundation, currently the largest breast cancer organization in the United States, passed out pink ribbons at a race for breast cancer survivors in New York City. Then, in 1993, the Senior Corporate Vice President of Estée Lauder, Evelyn Lauder, founded the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. The pink ribbon began as a symbol for this specific institution. As National Breast Cancer Awareness Month gained popularity and notoriety, the pink ribbon became a symbol for the movement and has been used by companies to show support for breast cancer charities. It is also used to celebrate survivors and remember those who have been lost to breast cancer. Every year, National Breast Cancer Awareness Month is celebrated in a host of ways. In 2010, Delta Air Lines painted a Boeing 767-432ER with the pink ribbon. In 2017, the White House was lit pink in honor of the observance. Similarly, in 2011, 10 Downing Street (where the British Prime Minister lives and works) was illuminated pink. The National Football League in the United States outfit their field with pink lines, while comic strip artists use pink for one day of the month. These pink promotions bring further awareness to the month and remind people to volunteer! In the later part of this article, we’ll name a few ways you can give to charity in October to support National Breast Cancer Awareness Month! The Statistics Concerning Breast Cancer Awareness Month The purpose of Breast Cancer Awareness Month being to educate people about early detection and promote breast health, has the observance actually had any impact on breast cancer survival? We’re happy to be able to say… Yes, it has! The rate of death among breast cancer patients has been steadily declining since 1990, in part because of increased awareness, increased screening, and better treatment options. While breast cancer is still the most common cancer diagnosed in women (after skin cancer), 63% of cases are diagnosed in the localized stage. And, because the cancer has not spread, the five-year survival rate is 99%. That’s amazing! The rate of death from breast cancer among women fifty and over has declined at an even more rapid rate than for those under fifty. We hope this trend continues! A study into the effect of Breast Cancer Awareness Month in a private hospital yielded interesting results! The study was split into two groups: women who sought screening between the months of February and September and those who sought screenings in the month of October. These two groups were referred to as the non-BCAM group and BCAM group, respectively. The non-BCAM group, with 69 women, was half the size of the BCAM group, with 129 women. The study concluded public awareness campaigns do lead to an increased rate of screening. However, they also pointed out, with routine screening programs becoming more widespread, this may not make much of a difference in the rate of diagnosis. Which is really the goal of Breast Cancer Awareness Month! Ways You Can Support Breast Cancer Awareness Month There are so many wonderful ways you can support Breast Cancer Awareness in the month of October. (Although, there’s no rule that says you can't do it all year!) Most people associate the month with charity walks and runs. These races rely on donations to raise funds for research and the development of improved breast cancer treatments. If you’re physically and financially able, you may be able to contribute your time or money to these events! Or, if you prefer to just give money, there are dozens of charities who will use your dollars to fund necessary initiatives. If you aren’t physically or financially able to donate your time or money, no worries! There are other ways for you to support Breast Cancer Awareness Month. First: wear pink! It’s all about awareness in October and you increase awareness by wearing clothes associated with breast cancer. Read up on breast cancer. Equip yourself with information. Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer for women. Every 2 minutes, a female is diagnosed with breast cancer. Drinking alcohol increases the risk of breast cancer. Only 5-10% of people diagnosed with breast cancer have a family history. Speak with your friends about regular screenings. Demystify the act of going to the doctor, performing a self-exam, and having a mammogram for those you love. You can also volunteer with the American Cancer Society (ACS) or another program to help increase breast cancer awareness in your local community. If you know someone with cancer, help make their lives a bit easier by organizing meal deliveries or rides to appointments. Be sure to ask first! Listen to the experiences of breast cancer survivors and those who have lost someone to breast cancer with an open mind and a kind heart. Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an opportunity for everyone to come together, as a community, and uplift those who are currently struggling or have struggled with breast cancer. As we fight towards a cure, there’s things we can do to help others stay healthy and live long lives. We hope you’ll do your part this October for National Breast Cancer Awareness Month! Of course, The Breast Place is committed to increased breast cancer awareness. That’s why we offer free consultations with our highly trained staff and advanced breast imaging services. We also offer family history and genetic testing services through AmbryCARE, for those who have a history of breast cancer in their family and believe that may be predisposed to genetic mutations. Our kind staff are here to help walk you through every step of the way. Give us a call or fill out one of the contact forms scattered around our website and we’ll be in touch! Thank you for reading and we hope you’ll return for our future articles!  Hello, Warriors! How are you feeling? Thank you for taking time out of your active schedule to visit The Breast Place blog. Welcome! We cover a range of topics here, including breast cancer management, anti-aging skin treatments, and tips for overall health and wellness. The Breast Place is committed to sharing the best health practices and treatment options with you! While you’re here, be sure to check out our previous posts about the importance of genetic testing and male breast cancer!
Today, we’re discussing the intricacies of breast reconstruction. There’s a bunch of information available to those looking to undergo breast reconstruction. We wanted to make things easy and give you an in-depth look into the options available to you. We hope this makes your decision a bit easier! The Facts Women who have undergone a double mastectomy (which includes the full removal of both breasts), a mastectomy (which includes the full removal of single breast), or a lumpectomy/segmental mastectomy (which includes the removal of a portion of the breast), often choose to also undertake a breast reconstruction. A breast reconstruction is a medical procedure which involves replacing the tissue which was removed during the mastectomy in order to alter the aesthetic appearance of breasts. According to studies conducted in 2016, 40% of women who underwent a mastectomy went on to have reconstruction surgery. In 2018, 101,600 women in the United States alone underwent breast reconstruction surgery, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the Plastic Surgery Foundation. Considering how many women undergo breast reconstruction every year, it’s astounding only 23% of women are knowledgeable about their breast reconstruction options. This is why the next section will be devoted to a comprehensive overview of the options available to women looking to undergo reconstruction. The Options There are two time-based factors which alter the type of surgery you’ll undergo. The first type of reconstruction is immediate reconstruction. An immediate reconstruction, as the name suggests, occurs immediately after a mastectomy. This type of reconstruction is more common, with three-fourths of reconstruction patients adhering to this type. The positive attributes of an immediate reconstruction include improved aesthetic results, heightened psychological well-being post-operation, and lower costs. Patients are able to mitigate a bit of the body dysphoria which can accompany a mastectomy, as well as lessen scarring, with this method. However, immediate reconstruction can be associated with more postoperative complications when postmastectomy radiation therapy is required. The second type of reconstruction is delayed reconstruction. This type of breast reconstruction is done some time after the initial mastectomy and is much less common. The reason for this is because multiple surgeries mean further healing, multiple scars, and longer downtime. However, unlike immediate reconstruction, this type is not associated with higher risk of complications when combined postmastectomy radiation therapy. Therefore, this type might be recommended for breast cancer patients who still have a ways to go in their treatment, even after their mastectomy. Underneath the broader umbrella of immediate and delayed, there are further types of breast reconstructions, which are differentiated by their chosen makeup. Implant-based reconstruction (IBR) is the first type and 81% of breast reconstructions consist of this type. Further, within IBR, there are two subsets: single-stage (or direct-to-implant placement) and two-stage. The single-stage IBR entails a single surgery, during which the chosen implant is the only implantation. While the two-stage IBR entails two surgeries, the first of which includes the placement of a tissue expander, and the second of which includes the placement of the permanent implant. Two-stage is actually the more common of the two subsets of IBR, with 68% of women receiving this type. Beyond single-stage and two-stage, there’s also the choice between silicone or saline implants. Silicone implants are known to have a more natural appearance and feel, which results in greater levels of patient satisfaction. Thus, silicone implants are used in about 95% of breast reconstructions. We’re still not done with IBR, because patients also need to consider the anatomic plane in which their implant will be placed. There are three planes in which the implant could reside: the total submuscular, the partial submuscular, and the prepectoral. Which anatomic plane you choose can affect the final appearance of the breasts after reconstruction and the risk of unintended side effects. Therefore, you should conduct plenty of research and ask your doctor about the implications of each plane. While a total submuscular placement lends vascularized soft tissue coverage and does not require the additional placement of an ADM (discussed later), this plane limits the overall size of the implant and has a high rate of animation deformity. Animation deformity is characterized by a distortion of the reconstructed breast when in motion (such as when the major pectoralis muscle is contracted). Around 80% of breast reconstruction patients whose implants are placed on the total submuscular plane experience this deformity. A partial submuscular placement with the additional use of an ADM reduces the risk of animation deformity. An ADM, or an adjunctive acellular dermal matrix, acts as a support system for the chosen implant. Whether derived from human sources (allografts), animal sources (zenographs), or synthetic materials, ADMs are scaffolding which serve to revascularize and integrate host cells into the newly placed tissue. ADMs can reduce the rate of capsular contracture and improve aesthetic definition, but also carry the risk of infection and seroma. Prepectoral plane placement with the use of an ADM is the only IBR which does not carry the risk of animation deformity. As well, since this type does not require surgeons cut into the pectoralis muscle, this method is less painful overall. However, compared to the other types discussed above, there’s been little research done into its efficacy in terms of aesthetics or harmfulness. Meanwhile, the other 19% of breast reconstructions outside of IBR consist of autologous reconstruction (AR). Autologous reconstructions utilize the patient’s own tissue for the reconstructive implant. Therefore, types of AR are differentiated by the anatomic region where the tissue flap is harvested. The most common source area is the deep inferior epigastric (DIEP), which consists of the skin and fat located along the lower abdomen. 52% of AR use this region. The second most common source area is the latissimus dorsi (LD), which is the broadest muscle along the side of your back. 22% of AR use this region. There are lower rates of usage among the transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous (TRAM), which form the deep abdomen, and other regions. Depending on your comorbidities, past surgeries, and preferences prior to surgery, your doctor may recommend one harvest site over another. Your Truth Federal law dictates any insurance company which covers mastectomy must also cover breast reconstruction surgery, however you’ll still need to look into what exactly your insurance company will cover. Beyond this, you’ll need to ask yourself a few questions. How well do you understand the entire breast reconstruction process, from pre-op preparation to recovery from multiple surgeries? Do you feel adequately prepared both mentally and physically to undergo this process? If you’re still currently undergoing treatment for cancer, how will breast reconstruction affect your treatment? There’s a likelihood your breast reconstruction will not result in your breasts appearing as they did pre-mastectomy. In this event, will you be able to manage your resulting emotional response? It's better to ask yourself these questions in advance and be honest about your answers. If you have concerns about breast reconstruction, bring them up with your medical provider. With clarity and time, you may solidify your certainty about whether or not breast reconstruction is right for you. Your Support A support system is crucial following any surgery, for emotional reasons as much as practical reasons. While you will probably need someone’s help during your recovery process, nothing is more helpful than a community in which you can discuss your journey. As we quoted above, more than one-hundred thousand women undergo this process every year. There are Facebook groups and online chat rooms where you can learn more about the process you’re about to undertake and ask women who have already undergone the process for their perspective. The value of community resources cannot be underestimated. The Breast Place is dedicated to provide you with the options and support you need to make the best decision for your breast reconstruction. We offer natural reconstruction (i.e. AR) and impact reconstruction (i.e. IBR) services, as well as nipple-sparing mastectomy, breast lift and breast reduction. Breast reconstruction is about more than just aesthetics. It's about feeling your best in your body and taking the proper steps to do so. For a free consultation, reach out to us today. Thank you for reading and we look forward to hearing from you! |
Archives
June 2022
Categories
All
|
RSS Feed
|
Fax: (843) 574-1698
|
|