 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. If this is your first visit to The Breast Place blog, we welcome you. 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 is prepared to answer any questions you may have about your health, your breast cancer risk, and how to reach your aesthetic goals.
At The Breast Place, we offer several oncoplastic surgical procedures, such as natural reconstruction, nipple-sparing mastectomy, Hidden Scar™, implant reconstruction, and breast lift with or without reduction. Oncoplastic surgery is distinct from both breast cancer surgery and plastic surgery–though you initially assume oncoplastic surgery to be a mixture of both. Rather, the aim of oncoplastic breast surgery is “to achieve good aesthetic outcomes for women with breast cancers who would have unacceptable outcomes with other BCS techniques, and in addition, enable breast-conserving surgery for larger breast cancers.” While breast cancer surgery prioritizes the eradication of cancerous tissue and plastic surgery prioritizes the cosmetic appearance of the breasts, oncoplastic surgery takes both of these aspects into account when planning for the final outcome. You can find out more information about what to look for in an Oncoplastic surgeon here. Our last article discussed dermal fillers. Dermal fillers are an injectable treatment that can help minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles in the face, lips, and hands. We discussed what fillers are actually made of, types of fillers, what they are best for, and what to expect during your appointment. If you are interested in learning more, we encourage you to check out our last post! Before we continue with today’s topic, we’d like to make you aware of what we have to offer at The Breast Place this month. It’s June, and summer is right around the corner! The weather is getting more and more beautiful and we hope you are feeling just as great. Our product of the month is EltaMD Sunscreen! These sunscreens help prevent sunburn while decreasing the risk of skin cancer. They are formulated with zinc oxide, which helps to heal damaged skin. This month, we are offering 25% off ALL EltaMD products! These products are noncomedogenic, fragrance-free, paraben-free, and sensitivity-free. You can learn more about the EltaMD products we have available on our website. Stop by our office or reach out to us today to take advantage of this month’s offer! We can even ship products to your door! Remember, you should never go outside without SPF protection. Today, we’ll be talking about some DIY face masks that you can make easily at home! Not only is making face masks a fun activity, but you also know exactly what ingredients are in them, putting you in control! This can help enhance your skincare routine and give your skin some much-needed TLC. (We also think it makes for a great at-home spa day or girl’s night!) Face masks are generally used to infuse the skin with helpful ingredients and moisture. We’ll be sharing different recipes and breaking down how each ingredient can benefit your skin. If you’re interested in learning more, stick around! Let’s get started. Nourishing and Smoothing Mask First up is this homemade mask that targets fine lines and wrinkles while providing plenty of moisture. Here are the ingredients:
Slice the banana peel with a knife and mash up the banana before mixing in the rest of the ingredients. You should end up with a yellow paste. Apply a thin layer of the paste all over your face and let it sit for 10 minutes. Then, remove it by rinsing it with warm water or with a wet washcloth. Be sure to remove all of the mask from your face. Your skin should be noticeably softer! Why this mask works: Bananas contain potassium, which enhances moisture. They also are packed with vitamins E and C. Vitamin E is an antioxidant, which helps protect your skin cells from damage. Vitamin C is known to help slow skin aging and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Raw honey helps balance bacteria on the skin and has anti-inflammatory properties. It is also a natural exfoliator, which means it gently removes dead skin cells. Yogurt contains lactic acid, which helps dissolve dead skin cells. It also soothes and moisturizes the skin. Turmeric is antiseptic and antibacterial, so it can help prevent acne breakouts. Additionally, it has anti-inflammatory properties that can calm already-inflamed areas. It is also known to brighten the skin to improve complexion. Soothing Mask This mask is great for inflamed skin, whether it’s from breakouts, rashes, or sunburn. It’s also incredibly easy to make, with only two ingredients:
Place the oats in a mixing bowl and then add milk. Mix well until it makes a smooth paste. Apply the mixture to your face, and neck if desired. Let sit for about 20 minutes and then rinse off with warm water for cool, calm skin! Why this mask works: Oatmeal has long been known for its benefits to the skin. It is packed with proteins and vitamin E, which is an antioxidant. Oatmeal moisturizes, protects, and exfoliates the skin, and has anti-inflammatory properties that can treat itchy and dry skin and can reduce redness. It also contains flavonoids, which are plant compounds that provide antioxidant protection as well as protection from UV rays. (Note: This is not an alternative to sunscreen!) Oatmeal can also soak up excess oil that may lead to acne, as well as kill off acne-causing bacteria. Milk is packed with naturally occurring proteins that help boost the elasticity of the skin, which can result in fewer wrinkles. It contains lactic acid, which helps remove dead skin cells. Hydrating Mask If you have dry skin, you’ve probably tried everything for hydration. This DIY mask might just be the key to giving your skin the moisture it craves, without irritation. Here are the ingredients:
Cut and peel the avocado, removing the pit. Mash it up in a mixing bowl and add your other ingredients. Mix the ingredients together until you have a smooth, green paste. Apply a thin layer to the face and let sit for 10 to 20 minutes. Rinse with warm water for incredibly soft and moisturized skin! Why this mask works: Avocados are known as a super fruit because they are high in healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. They are excellent sources of vitamin E and C, just like bananas. The natural oils within avocados help nourish, soften, and hydrate the skin. Avocados are also rich in antioxidants. As mentioned above, yogurt and honey both soothe and moisturize the skin. Olive oil is rich in vitamins A, D, E, and K. Vitamin A speeds up healing and prevents breakouts. Vitamin D contributes to cell growth and repair. Vitamin K helps protect collagen, making your skin appear more plump and youthful. Olive oil is also an antioxidant and can help prevent damage from UV rays. It helps moisturize and can fight off acne-causing bacteria. These are just a few of the DIY face masks that you can make with ingredients at home! These masks are a great way to practice self-care and promote healthy, glowing skin at the same time. Of course, you should avoid ingredients that you are allergic to, and we encourage you to consult a dermatologist if you are unsure about any particular ingredients. We hope you found this article informative and we hope to see you back on the blog soon! Here at The Breast Place, we are dedicated to helping you feel more confident in your skin. We offer injectable treatments such as Botox, Juvéderm, and Dysport, as well as other facial rejuvenation services such as laser treatment and more! Additionally, we offer breast imaging services and provide consultations, clinical breast exams, and dedicated treatment plans. We strongly encourage you to reach out to us for a consultation if you have any questions or concerns pertaining to our service areas– We are committed to empowering women, and we are proud to offer treatments and products to help you look and feel your 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!
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 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. If this is your first visit to The Breast Place blog, we welcome you. 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 is prepared to answer any questions you may have about your health, your breast cancer risk, and how to reach your aesthetic goals.
At The Breast Place, we offer several oncoplastic surgical procedures, such as natural reconstruction, nipple-sparing mastectomy, Hidden Scar™, implant reconstruction, and breast lift with or without reduction. Oncoplastic surgery is distinct from both breast cancer surgery and plastic surgery–though you initially assume oncoplastic surgery to be a mixture of both. Rather, the aim of oncoplastic breast surgery is “to achieve good aesthetic outcomes for women with breast cancers who would have unacceptable outcomes with other BCS techniques, and in addition, enable breast-conserving surgery for larger breast cancers.” While breast cancer surgery prioritizes the eradication of cancerous tissue and plastic surgery prioritizes the cosmetic appearance of the breasts, oncoplastic surgery takes both of these aspects into account when planning for the final outcome. You can find out more information about what to look for in an Oncoplastic surgeon here. Our last article continued our discussion about ways to take care of your skin. The key to great skin lies within your daily routine. This includes the products you use and how you treat your skin overall on a daily basis. We discussed protecting your skin from the sun, developing a skincare routine, minimizing stress, getting adequate sleep, and more! If you’re interested in learning about the various ways you can take care of your skin, we encourage you to check out our last two posts! Before we continue with today’s topic, we’d like to make you aware of what we have to offer at The Breast Place this month. We can’t believe May is almost over already! The weather continues to get more and more beautiful and we hope you are feeling just as great. This month we have special pricing on our new service that we are so proud to offer; EMSELLA, a breakthrough treatment for incontinence. (You can learn more about incontinence and pelvic floor therapy in one of our previous blogs or learn more about EMSELLA on our website!) Additionally, we are offering 25% treatments and products for moms and graduates this month! Although Mother’s Day has already passed, we think this is a great excuse to treat your mom – or yourself! – to one of our many services. We hope to see you at our aesthetic clinic soon! Today, we’ll be talking about dermal fillers and how they can aid in the process of facial rejuvenation. Dermal fillers are an injectable treatment that can help minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles in the face, lips, and hands. In today’s post, we’ll be taking a closer look at what fillers actually are, as well as how to know which one is right for you, and what you can expect from a treatment. If you are interested in learning more, you’re in the right place! Let’s get started. Dermal fillers are made of gel-like substances that are injected beneath the skin in order to fill in areas of volume loss. As we age, our body produces less collagen. Collagen is a structural protein that provides support to tissues and plays a role in tissue repair and cellular migration. As collagen production slows, the skin loses volume and can become saggy or wrinkled. Dermal fillers and other injectable treatments are used to make up for this loss of volume. There are a variety of FDA-approved fillers– These are only available through a licensed physician, such as a board-certified cosmetic surgeon. Let’s take a closer look at some of the ingredients commonly found in dermal fillers.
In addition to correcting volume loss, dermal fillers can also do quite a few things to enhance your overall appearance! Dermal fillers have the ability to smooth out lines and wrinkles, plump the lips, and improve symmetry among facial features. They are often confused with Botox, which is another type of injectable treatment. Botox is a drug made from a toxin that has been used in the medical field for years to treat wrinkles and facial creases. Additionally, Botox has the ability to treat other conditions such as excessive underarm sweating, chronic migraine, and overactive bladder. Both dermal fillers and Botox are long-lasting treatments, but they do have several differences. The main difference is that rather than filling in areas of volume loss, Botox is used to paralyze or relax the muscles near the wrinkles, which reduces their appearance. Botox is not used for fine lines caused by loss of collagen. Each type of filler is formulated in a particular way, so certain fillers will work best in certain areas. With that being said, how do you know which filler is right for you? While it is best to consult with a professional, we’ve put together a short-and-sweet guide that will hopefully lead you in the right direction!
Once you’ve consulted with a professional and decided on the best treatment, you may be wondering what to expect from your first treatment. One of the great things about injectable treatments is that they are done during an office visit and typically won’t take longer than 30 minutes, depending on the area being treated. This means you can absolutely make an appointment during your lunch break, and there is little to no downtime afterward! As long as you are receiving treatment from a certified medical professional in a safe, medical environment, there are very minimal risks associated with dermal fillers. Your provider will clean the area to be treated and you may be given a topical anesthetic to numb the area. Some patients experience minor redness, bruising, or swelling, but these side effects are only temporary and will subside within a few days after treatment. As mentioned previously, you can return to normal activities right after treatment, although you may be instructed to refrain from intense physical activity for 24 to 48 hours. You should notice results immediately after treatment, and they may last several months, depending on the amount of filler you received. Your provider may recommend follow-up treatments for optimal results. As you can see, dermal fillers are a great solution to correct volume loss and minimize signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles. If you are interested in injectable treatments, we encourage you to reach out to us! Here at The Breast Place, we are dedicated to helping you feel more confident in your skin. We offer injectable treatments such as Botox, Juvéderm, and Dysport, as well as other facial rejuvenation services such as laser treatment and more! Additionally, we offer breast imaging services and provide consultations, clinical breast exams, and dedicated treatment plans. We strongly encourage you to reach out to us for a consultation if you have any questions or concerns pertaining to our service areas– We are committed to empowering women, and we are proud to offer treatments and products to help you look and feel your 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!  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. If this is your first visit to The Breast Place blog, we welcome you. 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 is prepared to answer any questions you may have about your health, your breast cancer risk, and how to reach your aesthetic goals.
At The Breast Place, we offer several oncoplastic surgical procedures, such as natural reconstruction, nipple-sparing mastectomy, Hidden Scar™, implant reconstruction, and breast lift with or without reduction. Oncoplastic surgery is distinct from both breast cancer surgery and plastic surgery–though you initially assume oncoplastic surgery to be a mixture of both. Rather, the aim of oncoplastic breast surgery is “to achieve good aesthetic outcomes for women with breast cancers who would have unacceptable outcomes with other BCS techniques, and in addition, enable breast-conserving surgery for larger breast cancers.” While breast cancer surgery prioritizes the eradication of cancerous tissue and plastic surgery prioritizes the cosmetic appearance of the breasts, oncoplastic surgery takes both of these aspects into account when planning for the final outcome. You can find out more information about what to look for in an Oncoplastic surgeon here. Our last article discussed ways to take care of your skin. The key to great skin lies within your daily routine. This includes the products you use and how you treat your skin overall on a daily basis. We discussed protecting your skin from the sun, developing a skincare routine, and treating your skin gently. If you’re interested in learning more about those aspects of taking care of your skin, we encourage you to check out our last post! Before we continue with today’s topic, we’d like to make you aware of what we have to offer at The Breast Place this month. May is officially here! The weather continues to get more and more beautiful and we hope you are feeling just as great. This month we have special pricing on our new service that we are so proud to offer; EMSELLA, a breakthrough treatment for incontinence. (You can learn more about incontinence and pelvic floor therapy in one of our previous blogs or learn more about EMSELLA on our website!) Additionally, we are offering 25% treatments and products for moms and graduates this month! Although Mother’s Day has already passed, we think this is a great excuse to treat your mom – or yourself! – to one of our many services. We hope to see you at our aesthetic clinic soon! Today, we’ll be continuing to talk about how to take care of your skin! As we’ve stated previously, the skin is your body’s largest organ, so protecting it should be a huge priority! As women, we are almost always concerned about our appearance. Everyone wants gorgeous, youthful-looking skin, and luckily there are many ways to achieve that through everyday habits. If you’re ready to learn more about how to achieve a healthy, glowing complexion at home, stick around! Let’s get started. Eat Your Way To Healthy Skin We all know that nutrition is extremely important for our health and wellbeing, but did you know it can benefit your skin as well? What you eat can have a significant impact on the health and aging of your skin. For example, consuming healthy fats can be extremely beneficial. This can include consuming fatty fish, such as salmon and mackerel, which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, or fish oil supplements. Omega-3 fatty acids are nutrients that are crucial to maintaining skin health– They keep skin thick, supple, and moisturized. They regulate the skin’s oil production, reduce breakouts, and minimize signs of aging. Omega-3s improve the fatty acid composition of your skin and balance its inflammatory response, helping it stay softer and less inflamed. Less inflammation means reduced redness and acne! Research also suggests that omega-3 supplements can help lessen your skin’s sensitivity to UV rays and may prevent skin cancer. Additionally, fatty fish is a source of vitamin E, which is an important antioxidant for the skin. Avocados are another food source packed with healthy fats, as well as vitamins and minerals. They are rich in monounsaturated fat, a type of healthy fat as opposed to saturated or trans fats. A 2010 study found that a high intake of the healthy fat found in avocados helped to increase skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Just like omega-3s, avocados may also protect your skin from sun damage and are a source of vitamin E. They also contain vitamin C, which is essential for producing collagen, a protein that helps keep your skin strong and healthy. Minimize Stress This one might seem easier said than done– We can’t exactly eliminate or avoid stress or obstacles that life throws at us. However, there are ways you can effectively manage stress and give yourself some peace of mind. When we experience stress, a hormone called cortisol spikes– Prolonged spikes of this hormone can lead to skin problems, as well as increased inflammation in the body. This can cause flare-ups of acne, eczema, and other skin conditions, and intense stress over time can lead to early signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles. Because of this, it is important to do what you can to manage stress. One way to do this is by creating and maintaining a skincare routine, as we mentioned in our previous post. Not only can the products you use be beneficial for your skin, but setting some time aside every day to pamper yourself is a great way to destress– It’s a form of self-care. Self-care has become a hot topic in recent years, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Any form of self-care is great for your overall well-being and for your skin. (Check out our blog about self-care tips here!) Additionally, practicing mindfulness can be a great way to manage and reduce stress. Mindfulness is the intense focus of paying attention to one thing, such as what you are thinking or feeling at the moment. This can be done in many ways, but some of the most common ways of practicing mindfulness are through meditation or yoga. Some of the benefits of meditation include reducing negative emotions, lowering resting heart rate and blood pressure, and gaining a new perspective on stressful situations. Since meditation minimizes your body’s inflammatory response to stress, it can also smooth and plump the skin. Get Your Beauty Sleep Yes, there’s actually a good reason behind the phrase “beauty sleep”! Not only does a good night’s sleep help you wake up energized, but it also allows your skin time for healing. When we sleep, cortisol (the stress hormone) decreases, and melatonin (the sleep hormone) increases– This means that your body and skin are in “repair mode” while you sleep. Studies show that new skin cells grow faster while we sleep, and overnight, our bodies are healing from the damage we may have sustained from UV rays. Our skin also produces new collagen while we sleep, which helps prevent sagging by making the skin plumper. Sleep deprivation decreases blood flow to the skin surrounding your face, creating a dull complexion. Therefore, getting adequate sleep can lead to brighter and less puffy eyes and youthful, glowing skin with fewer wrinkles! As you can see, there are many ways you can care for your skin at home! We hope you found this two-part article helpful! Here at The Breast Place, we are dedicated to helping you feel more confident in your skin. We offer facial rejuvenation services including dermal fillers, laser treatment, and more! Additionally, we offer breast imaging services and provide consultations, clinical breast exams, and dedicated treatment plans. We strongly encourage you to reach out to us for a consultation if you have any questions or concerns pertaining to our service areas– We are committed to empowering women, and we are proud to offer treatments and products to help you look and feel your 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!  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. If this is your first visit to The Breast Place blog, we welcome you. 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 is prepared to answer any questions you may have about your health, your breast cancer risk, and how to reach your aesthetic goals.
At The Breast Place, we offer several oncoplastic surgical procedures, such as natural reconstruction, nipple-sparing mastectomy, Hidden Scar™, implant reconstruction, and breast lift with or without reduction. Oncoplastic surgery is distinct from both breast cancer surgery and plastic surgery–though you initially assume oncoplastic surgery to be a mixture of both. Rather, the aim of oncoplastic breast surgery is “to achieve good aesthetic outcomes for women with breast cancers who would have unacceptable outcomes with other BCS techniques, and in addition, enable breast-conserving surgery for larger breast cancers.” While breast cancer surgery prioritizes the eradication of cancerous tissue and plastic surgery prioritizes the cosmetic appearance of the breasts, oncoplastic surgery takes both of these aspects into account when planning for the final outcome. You can find out more information about what to look for in an Oncoplastic surgeon here. Our last article talked about incontinence, which is a lack of bladder control caused by a weakening of the muscles in the pelvic floor. Incontinence affects over 19 million women in the United States, but more than half of those who suffer do not seek help or discuss their concerns with anyone. Incontinence can be caused by childbirth, menopause, or the natural aging process. Medication given for breast cancer treatment can induce early menopause, resulting in incontinence. If you are interested in learning more about incontinence and the pelvic floor therapy treatment we offer here at The Breast Place, we encourage you to give our last article a read! Before we dive into today’s topic, we’d like to make you aware of what we have to offer at The Breast Place this April. Spring is here! The weather is beautiful and we hope you are feeling just as great. Our product of the month is the ProHeal Serum from iS Clinical. This restorative and antioxidant-rich serum is 20% off this month, so stop by our office to snag yours, or contact us so we can ship it directly to you! Today, we’ll be discussing ways that you can take care of your skin. The skin is your body’s largest organ, so protecting it should be a huge priority! As women, we are almost always concerned about our appearance. After all, who doesn’t want gorgeous, youthful-looking skin?! What you may not know is that the key to great skin lies within your daily routine– A lot of it has to do with how well you are taking care of your skin. Luckily, there are many ways you can care for your skin at home, and we’ll be talking about just a few of them today! If you’re interested in learning more about how you can achieve and maintain glowing skin at home, you’re in the right place! Let’s get right into it. Protect Your Skin From the Sun One of the most important, yet arguably overlooked, ways to achieve healthy, youthful skin is by protecting it from the sun. Too much exposure to ultraviolet light, or UV rays, can damage skin cells and even lead to skin cancer. Sun damage is one of the leading causes of aging skin, due to the fact that UV rays penetrate the skin and damage elastic fibers that keep skin firm. This, in turn, causes wrinkles to develop. The good news is that sun damage can be avoided by using sunscreen. Choose a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or greater– And apply it daily. Yes, sunscreen should be used every day, even when it’s not exactly sunny out. The sun emits UV rays year-round, no matter the weather or season. Even on overcast days, up to 80% of the sun’s radiation reaches the Earth. It is also important to keep in mind that your face is not the only part of your skin that needs to be protected. Sunscreen should be applied to any part of the skin exposed to the sun. So, whether you’re walking your dog, doing some gardening, or sitting by the pool, you’ll want to put on some sunscreen! You can also protect your skin from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat and by avoiding sunbathing. Unfortunately, seeing a suntan means skin damage has occurred. Try opting for a self-tanner instead! Develop a Skincare Routine Another great way to care for your skin is by developing a skincare routine– And sticking to it! The first step to creating a skincare routine is by determining your skin type. Generally, there are 5 different skin types: Normal, dry, combination, oily, and sensitive. Let’s take a closer look at what these skin types look like:
Determining your skin type will help you determine what products to use. For example, there are products that are fragrance-free, which would best suit sensitive skin, and products that are alcohol-free, which are great for dry skin, and so on. A basic skincare routine should include a cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen. Even if you have oily skin, you’ll still want to moisturize– Moisturizers help hold the water in the outer layer of the skin to keep it hydrated. You don’t want to lose your skin’s hydration or natural oils, as that can result in your skin ramping up its oil production to compensate. Yikes! If you want a more in-depth skincare routine, you can incorporate other products into your regimen, such as toners and serums. Be Gentle No matter what products you decide to incorporate into your skincare routine or use on your skin periodically, you’ll want to be gentle– Especially on your face. Things like daily cleansing and shaving can take a toll on your skin over time. With that in mind, you’ll want to avoid harsh products that can do more harm than good to your skin. Strong cleansers and soaps can strip the natural oils from your skin, so opt for mild products. Cleansers and soaps aren’t the only things to be careful of, however. Things such as hot water and long baths can also strip oils from your skin, drying it out. It can also damage the surface of the skin, and over time this can develop into more serious skin problems such as inflammation and eczema. Long, hot showers can also worsen acne and psoriasis. To avoid this, try cutting down your shower or bath time, and use warm water rather than hot. You should also treat your skin gently by shaving carefully. Repeated shaving can cause inflamed hair follicles, itching, and ingrown hairs. Since shaving affects the upper layer of skin, it can dry it out and make you more prone to outside irritation. A good way to combat this is by applying a shower cream or gel before shaving. This lubricates the skin and protects it. You should also use a clean, sharp razor, and be sure to shave in the direction that your hair grows, rather than against it! Another way to care for your skin is by patting dry with a towel after washing or bathing, rather than rubbing a rough towel all over your skin. This is not only gentle on your skin, but helps retain some moisture. As you can see, there are many simple ways you can care for your skin at home and help maintain a youthful appearance. These were just a few of the ways you can take care of your skin, and there are more to come in our next blog! We hope you found this article helpful, and we hope to see you back for part two! Here at The Breast Place, we are dedicated to helping you feel more confident in your skin. We offer facial rejuvenation services including dermal fillers, laser treatment, and more! Additionally, we offer breast imaging services and provide consultations, clinical breast exams, and dedicated treatment plans. We strongly encourage you to reach out to us for a consultation if you have any questions or concerns pertaining to our service areas– We are committed to empowering women, and we are proud to offer treatments and products to help you look and feel your 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!  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. If this is your first visit to The Breast Place blog, we welcome you. 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 is prepared to answer any questions you may have about your health, your breast cancer risk, and how to reach your aesthetic goals.
At The Breast Place, we offer several oncoplastic surgical procedures, such as natural reconstruction, nipple-sparing mastectomy, Hidden Scar™, implant reconstruction, and breast lift with or without reduction. Oncoplastic surgery is distinct from both breast cancer surgery and plastic surgery–though you initially assume oncoplastic surgery to be a mixture of both. Rather, the aim of oncoplastic breast surgery is “to achieve good aesthetic outcomes for women with breast cancers who would have unacceptable outcomes with other BCS techniques, and in addition, enable breast-conserving surgery for larger breast cancers.” While breast cancer surgery prioritizes the eradication of cancerous tissue and plastic surgery prioritizes the cosmetic appearance of the breasts, oncoplastic surgery takes both of these aspects into account when planning for the final outcome. You can find out more information about what to look for in an Oncoplastic surgeon here. Our last article talked about common signs and symptoms of breast cancer, as well as the rarer signs that you should watch out for. Breast cancer signs and symptoms can vary, and some types of breast cancers produce no symptoms. Because of this, it is important to be aware of how your breasts normally look and feel, so that you can identify any changes such as new lumps or masses. Additionally, it is important to keep in mind that various benign conditions can cause similar symptoms. We encourage you to check out our last post to make yourself aware of the possible signs and symptoms. Before we dive into today’s topic, we’d like to make you aware of a few promotions available at The Breast Place this April. Spring is here! The weather is beautiful and we hope you are feeling just as great. Mother’s Day is coming up, and we are offering a Mini Mommy Makeover Day event on April 26 from 9AM to 3PM! We will have goodie bags and VIP discounts on all of our services including Botox and filler, SecretRF microneedling, laser hair removal, and more! Score 20% off when you get two or more services! This event is by appointment only, so make sure you RSVP here! Availability is limited. Not a mom? That’s okay! This event is for everyone. Pamper yourself, your mom, your best friend, or make it a girls’ day and come together! We look forward to seeing you. Additionally, our product of the month is the ProHeal Serum from iS Clinical. This restorative and antioxidant-rich serum is 20% off this month, so stop by our office to snag yours, or contact us so we can ship it directly to you! Today, we’ll be discussing incontinence. Incontinence is a lack of bladder control caused by a weakening of the muscles in the pelvic floor. The pelvic floor is made up of muscles that support the urinary and reproductive tracts. Incontinence in women is usually caused by childbirth, menopause, or the natural aging process. For breast cancer patients, medication given can start early menopause, therefore resulting in incontinence. Incontinence affects over 19 million women in the United States, but more than half of those who suffer do not seek help or discuss their concerns with anyone. We are here to break the stigma and educate others on this issue. If you’re interested in learning more about incontinence, we encourage you to continue reading! The severity of incontinence can range from occasionally leaking urine when coughing or sneezing, or more severe cases such as feeling the urge to urinate suddenly and strongly and being unable to make it to the toilet in time. People who experience incontinence may also urinate while sleeping, or leak urine while bending, lifting, running, or exercising. There are several types of incontinence, including stress, urge, overflow, functional, and mixed incontinence. Women are most likely to experience stress incontinence, due to childbirth or menopause. Stress incontinence happens when a movement or other physical activity puts stress on the bladder. During childbirth, tissues or nerves can be damaged, which weakens the pelvic floor muscles. This can become apparent soon after delivery, or years down the road. Incontinence can also be caused by a change in hormones, such as estrogen. Estrogen is a hormone that helps regulate menstruation and helps keep the bladder healthy. As a woman nears menopause, estrogen levels begin to drop. The lack of estrogen can cause the pelvic floor muscles to weaken, and this may become worse as levels continue to decrease. While urinary incontinence itself is not a disease, it can be a symptom of an underlying medical issue. You should speak with your doctor if incontinence causes you to restrict your activities or otherwise negatively impacts your quality of life. Luckily, there are treatment options available. Treatment will depend on the type of incontinence you are experiencing and can range from lifestyle changes to medications and even forms of exercise. One of the most effective ways to treat incontinence is through pelvic floor therapy. Pelvic floor therapy is a specialized type of physical therapy that focuses on the rehabilitation of pelvic floor muscles to relieve any dysfunction, such as muscle or tissue damage leading to incontinence. Not only is it effective, but it is also a natural and non-surgical option. The Breast Place is proud to offer EMSELLA, a breakthrough treatment for incontinence. EMSELLA is a chair that stimulates the entire pelvic floor region and musculature by rehabilitating the weak pelvic floor muscles. A single treatment is the equivalent of doing 12,000 Kegal exercises in just 28 minutes! (Yes, you read that correctly.) This is a non-invasive procedure that allows you to stay fully clothed– Say goodbye to the discomfort of undressing in an exam room! All you need to do is sit comfortably throughout the duration of the treatment. This procedure effectively treats stress, urge, and mixed incontinence. It also addresses sexual health and wellness concerns for both men and women. EMSELLA utilizes High-Intensity Focused Electromagnetic (HIFEM) technology to deliver thousands of supramaximal pelvic floor muscle contractions in a single session. This permanently increases blood flow to the pelvic floor and perineal area in women. These contractions re-educate the muscles of incontinence patients. The increase in blood flow can promote lubrication, resulting in intimate wellness. One treatment takes about 30 minutes, and it is recommended that someone receives 4 to 6 treatments total. You can receive up to two treatments per week. During treatment, patients may feel a tingling sensation, but it is completely pain-free. A course of 6 treatments in 3 weeks is equivalent to 12 weeks of pelvic physical therapy. Patients may see improvement after a single session, but results will improve over time as the pelvic floor muscles continue to get stronger. There is also no downtime– You can resume your regular daily activities immediately after treatment! EMSELLA is not covered by insurance, but the cost is similar to that of 12 weeks of physical therapy. As you can see, incontinence affects many women and can lower confidence, but you don’t have to suffer in silence. Treatments are available to repair and restore the pelvic floor muscles and get you back on track to living a happy and healthy life. We hope you found this article helpful and informative! Here at The Breast Place, we are so excited to offer EMSELLA treatment for incontinence, and we hope you will reach out if you have any questions or want to schedule a consultation. We also offer breast imaging services and provide consultations, clinical breast exams, and dedicated treatment plans. We strongly encourage you to reach out to us for a consultation if you have any questions or concerns pertaining to our service areas– We are committed to empowering women, and we are proud to offer treatments and products to help you look and feel your 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!  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. If this is your first visit to The Breast Place blog, we welcome you. 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 is prepared to answer any questions you may have about your health, your breast cancer risk, and how to reach your aesthetic goals.
At The Breast Place, we offer several oncoplastic surgical procedures, such as natural reconstruction, nipple-sparing mastectomy, Hidden Scar™, implant reconstruction, and breast lift with or without reduction. Oncoplastic surgery is distinct from both breast cancer surgery and plastic surgery–though you initially assume oncoplastic surgery to be a mixture of both. Rather, the aim of oncoplastic breast surgery is “to achieve good aesthetic outcomes for women with breast cancers who would have unacceptable outcomes with other BCS techniques, and in addition, enable breast-conserving surgery for larger breast cancers.” While breast cancer surgery prioritizes the eradication of cancerous tissue and plastic surgery prioritizes the cosmetic appearance of the breasts, oncoplastic surgery takes both of these aspects into account when planning for the final outcome. You can find out more information about what to look for in an Oncoplastic surgeon here. Our last article discussed easy self-care tips to incorporate into your routine. Self-care refers to the process of taking care of oneself through healthy habits and behaviors. Small tasks like going for a short walk or treating yourself to a warm bubble bath are forms of self-care. Things like journaling, taking a short break from social media, learning something new, and taking time to pamper yourself are all simple ways you can care for yourself. If you are interested in learning more about these techniques, check out our last post! Before we dive into today’s topic, we’d like to make you aware of a few promotions available at The Breast Place this March. Spring is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than by treating yourself? We’re offering a free EltaMD product with the purchase of Laser Genetics. You can also get double the Alle Rewards when you get Botox or Juvederm! Learn more about that rewards program here. This month we are offering Botox for just $10 per unit, and we will be donating $1 for every unit of Botox to our charity of the quarter. This quarter, we are donating proceeds to the Lonon Foundation, which is a charity dedicated to helping children affected by their parent or caregiver’s cancer diagnosis. You can find out more about the Lonon Foundation here. If you haven’t received a breast screening in a while, we encourage you to schedule one. (You can perform a self-exam in the meantime using this resource.) Overall, we encourage you to use this month to practice self-care techniques and take time to pamper yourself whenever possible. Today, we’ll be discussing some common signs and symptoms of breast cancer, as well as rarer signs that you should watch out for. Breast cancer is the most common cancer found in women but it is not unique to the gender, although less than 1% of all breast cancers are found in men. Risk factors can be genetic or based on family history, but other social factors can play a part as well, such as an unhealthy diet and lack of exercise. Having regular breast cancer screenings such as mammograms is important, but they do not detect every type of breast cancer. Breast cancer signs and symptoms can vary, and some types of breast cancers produce no symptoms. With that being said, it is important to be aware of how your breasts normally look and feel, so that you can identify any changes. It is important to note that breasts are not uniform– What is “normal” is different for every woman. We encourage you to stick around if you are interested in knowing more about the possible symptoms of breast cancer. Let’s get informed! New Lumps or Masses The most common sign of breast cancer is a new lump or mass in the breast or the underarm. A painless, hard mass is more likely to be cancer, but cancer can also come in the form of soft and tender lumps. Most cancerous lumps have irregular edges, are immobile (don’t move when pushed), and grow over time. Cancerous lumps will not always meet all of these criteria. These lumps may or may not be visible. It is important to note that not all lumps or masses are breast cancer. In fact, the majority of lumps and masses are non-cancerous. Many lumps found in the breast are caused by other medical conditions, such as cysts or fibrocystic breast conditions. If you notice a new lump or mass, you should get it checked by your doctor. Changes of the Skin There are a few different changes of the breast skin that you should be aware of. The swelling or thickening of any part of the breast could be a sign of breast cancer, even if no lump is felt. This may also be on or around the nipples. You should also take note of any redness, irritated or flaky skin on any part of the breast and nipples, including scaly skin. Another change to watch for is dimpling of the skin. Dimpling can be a sign that something is pulling on the breast tissue. This can look like a single indent, or can appear similar to that of an orange peel. Nipple retraction is also something to watch for. When this occurs, the nipple is turned inward or pulled in. There may or may not be pain associated with nipple retraction. Any changes to the skin of the breast area should be addressed. Nipple Discharge Nipple discharge, other than breast milk, can be an early symptom of breast cancer. This is a rare symptom of an early form of breast cancer that starts in the milk ducts. Typically, discharge that is clear (especially if only coming from one breast) or bloody is most commonly associated with breast cancer. Discharge may come out on its own, or may only occur if you squeeze the nipple. Nipple discharge is most often caused by a benign condition, but should still be addressed with your doctor, especially if it is accompanied by other changes in the breast or nipples. Swollen Lymph Nodes Lymph Nodes are small structures that are part of the body’s immune system. They filter substances that travel through the lymphatic fluid and contain white blood cells that help the body fight infection and disease. They are located in various parts of the body including the neck, armpit, chest, and groin. Swollen lymph nodes in the armpit can be a sign of breast cancer. These are just some of the possible signs and symptoms of breast cancer. Doing regular self-breast exams and getting regular screenings are important in detecting early signs of breast cancer. Check out our post about self-breast exams and our post about mammograms here for more information. Any changes in the breasts, including changes in size or shape of the breasts, should be addressed immediately. If you visit a doctor with any of these symptoms, a clinical exam will be performed and your doctor may also order tests such as a biopsy, mammogram, or ultrasound. You can find a guide to different types of breast imaging here. Once again, it is also important to remember that various benign conditions can cause similar symptoms. We hope you found this article helpful. Here at The Breast Place, we offer breast imaging services and provide consultations, clinical breast exams, and dedicated treatment plans. We strongly encourage you to reach out to us for a consultation if you have any questions or concerns about changes in your breasts. We are committed to empowering women, and we are proud to offer treatments and products to help you look and feel your 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!  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. If this is your first visit to The Breast Place blog, we welcome you. 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 is prepared to answer any questions you may have about your health, your breast cancer risk, and how to reach your aesthetic goals.
At The Breast Place, we offer several oncoplastic surgical procedures, such as natural reconstruction, nipple-sparing mastectomy, Hidden Scar™, implant reconstruction, and breast lift with or without reduction. Oncoplastic surgery is distinct from both breast cancer surgery and plastic surgery–though you initially assume oncoplastic surgery to be a mixture of both. Rather, the aim of oncoplastic breast surgery is “to achieve good aesthetic outcomes for women with breast cancers who would have unacceptable outcomes with other BCS techniques, and in addition, enable breast-conserving surgery for larger breast cancers.” While breast cancer surgery prioritizes the eradication of cancerous tissue and plastic surgery prioritizes the cosmetic appearance of the breasts, oncoplastic surgery takes both of these aspects into account when planning for the final outcome. You can find out more information about what to look for in an Oncoplastic surgeon here. Our last article discussed body contouring, sometimes referred to as “body sculpting”. This is an increasingly popular procedure that aims to reshape parts of the body and reduce fat. Here at The Breast Place, we utilize truSculpt iD from Cutera, which is an FDA-approved, non invasive fat removal device for quick fat loss. This device uses the latest body sculpting technology personalized to fit anyone, and there is almost no limit to the areas that can be treated, unlike other devices on the market. This non-surgical sculpting has no downtime, which means it can be completed during your lunch break! If you’re interested in learning more about body contouring, feel free to check out our last post! Before we dive into today’s topic, we’d like to make you aware of a few promotions available at The Breast Place this March. Spring is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than by treating yourself? We’re offering a free EltaMD product with the purchase of Laser Genetics. You can also get double the Alle Rewards when you get Botox or Juvederm! Learn more about that rewards program here. This month we are offering Botox for just $10 per unit, and we will be donating $1 for every unit of Botox to our charity of the quarter. This quarter, we are donating proceeds to the Lonon Foundation, which is a charity dedicated to helping children affected by their parent or caregiver’s cancer diagnosis. You can find out more about the Lonon Foundation here. If you haven’t received a breast screening in a while, we encourage you to schedule one. (You can perform a self-exam in the meantime using this resource.) Overall, we encourage you to use this month to practice self-care techniques and take time to pamper yourself whenever possible. Speaking of self-care, in today’s article, we’ll be discussing easy self-care tips that you can incorporate into your routine. There is a lot going on in our world today, and the past two years have been incredibly rough for all of us. It can feel overwhelming and with your busy schedule, it may seem like you have no time to relax. We’re here to change that! If you’re interested in learning about a few self-care techniques that you can start implementing today, you’re in the right place. Let’s get started! What is self-care? Self-care refers to the process of taking care of oneself through healthy habits and behaviors. The World Health Organization defines this as “the ability of individuals, families, and communities to promote health, prevent disease, maintain health, and to cope with illness and disability with or without the support of a healthcare provider.” This includes everything related to overall wellness, including physical, mental, and emotional health. Practicing self-care can have a variety of benefits, including the possibility of living longer. Routine self-care is important, but it can become even more important if you are diagnosed with a chronic illness. Self-care is not selfish. You need to be healthy in order to care for others. There are a variety of ways to practice self-care, with some being very minimal tasks that can be performed in just a few minutes. Small tasks like going for a short walk or treating yourself to a warm bubble bath are forms of self-care. Here are some simple ways to incorporate self-care into your daily routine. Journaling Journaling has increased in popularity in recent years, especially throughout quarantine. This can be done in a simple notebook or you can purchase a more spunky journal online or in stores. (Some journals come with prompts, so you don’t have to wonder what to write about.) If you’re not sure how to get started with journaling, try taking a few minutes every night to simply write down one positive thing that happened to you that day. It doesn’t have to be complex– Maybe someone complimented your clothing or makeup, or you got your favorite drink at Starbucks. Anything that made you happy today can be written in your journal! If you feel like taking more time to write in your journal, you can consider writing about your current feelings. Sometimes getting your thoughts out onto paper can bring relief. You can also doodle in your journal. There are no rules! Journaling can help reduce stress, manage anxiety, and cope with depression or trauma. Pamper yourself We often hear about the importance of skincare, and it still stands true. Skincare shouldn’t be a chore, however. Think about it as pampering yourself, and turn your skincare routine into a self-care party. Simply massaging moisturizer or a serum into your skin can relax both your body and mind. Not only will skin care products give you healthier skin and a glowing complexion, but they can make you feel better overall by providing a boost of confidence. Try to take one night out of your week to enhance your skincare routine by adding a face mask or a facial roller. Facial rollers are great for working serums into the skin and performing lymphatic drainage massages, which helps reduce puffiness. You can also set a night aside to take a relaxing bath, rather than a quick shower. Soaking in a warm bath is a great way to wind down after a long day or week. (You can add bubbles or candles for a little extra treat!) Unplug These days, we’re all pretty much addicted to our phones. Social media can be incredibly time-consuming and draining. Try turning off your phone for about 30 minutes each day, and stay off of other devices. You can use this time in a variety of ways. Consider practicing meditation and simply taking time to breathe. This might also be a good time to write in your journal, use a sheet of paper to create a gratitude list, or dedicate this 30 minutes to your skincare routine. Start reading an interesting book, give yourself an at-home manicure, take time to simply chat with your family, make and enjoy a healthy snack, go for a walk around your neighborhood or sit outside and enjoy the sunshine (don’t forget your SPF!). The possibilities are endless! When you do return to social media, consider going through and unfollowing accounts that don’t make you feel good. Your feeds should be full of people who lift you up, so unfollow those who may make you think negatively about yourself. Try something new Whatever your interests may be, take the time to learn something new! For example, if you are a creative person, maybe you want to learn how to crochet, use watercolors, or try your hand at ceramics and pottery. Enjoy cooking? Find and try out a new recipe. Plan a trip with a friend to a new restaurant or to your favorite restaurant, but try something new off of the menu. If you’re at the gym, try using new equipment or implementing a new exercise into your workout routine. Consider watching a documentary or historical film that you haven’t seen before, to learn something new. Have you had a new hobby in mind that you’ve been meaning to pick up? What better time than now to start?! There are so many wonderful things that the world has to offer. With a busy schedule, it may seem impossible to incorporate self-care into your routine. But, we want to assure you that it won’t hurt to take a few minutes to care for yourself. Your mind and body will thank you! We hope you found this article helpful. We are committed to empowering women, and we are proud to offer treatments and products to help you look and feel your 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!  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. If this is your first visit to The Breast Place blog, we welcome you. 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 is prepared to answer any questions you may have about your health, your breast cancer risk, and how to reach your aesthetic goals.
At The Breast Place, we offer several oncoplastic surgical procedures, such as natural reconstruction, nipple-sparing mastectomy, Hidden Scar™, implant reconstruction, and breast lift with or without reduction. Oncoplastic surgery is distinct from both breast cancer surgery and plastic surgery–though you initially assume oncoplastic surgery to be a mixture of both. Rather, the aim of oncoplastic breast surgery is “to achieve good aesthetic outcomes for women with breast cancers who would have unacceptable outcomes with other BCS techniques, and in addition, enable breast-conserving surgery for larger breast cancers.” While breast cancer surgery prioritizes the eradication of cancerous tissue and plastic surgery prioritizes the cosmetic appearance of the breasts, oncoplastic surgery takes both of these aspects into account when planning for the final outcome. You can find out more information about what to look for in an Oncoplastic surgeon here. Our last article discussed the implications of genetic testing. Genetic testing is an invaluable resource for detecting those genetic mutations which leave us at an increased risk of developing certain cancers and diseases. This detection can help individuals prepare for the future, make informed decisions about their care, and preempt the actual formation of a particular cancer or disease. We also discussed different types of genes and their implications. It is important to note that not all gene mutations lead to an increased chance of developing breast cancer. If you are interested in learning more, we encourage you to go check out our last blog. Before we dive into today’s topic, we’d like to make you aware of a few promotions available at The Breast Place this February. Though this month is often associated with romantic love, it’s important we remember to also love ourselves. Do we feel good and strong within our own bodies? Have we been practicing self-care with consistency and intentionality? If the answer is no, now is the time to start. If the answer is yes, then continue! The Breast Place is here to help! We’re offering $150 off each syringe of Juvederm Ultra XC, so you can have extra kissable lips this month. As well, each unit of Dysport is only $3. Our Grande Bundle—which includes GrandeLash, GrandeBrow, and GrandeMascara—is only $125. All products ship free! If you haven’t received a breast screening in a while, we encourage you to schedule one. (You can perform a self-exam in the meantime using this resource.) Overall, we encourage you to use the rest of February to catch up on your sleep, move your body, eat a balanced diet and prioritize your own wellbeing. Today, we’ll be discussing body contouring! This is sometimes referred to as “body sculpting”, and is an increasingly popular procedure that aims to reshape parts of the body and reduce fat. By reducing fat in certain areas of the body, the body can be contoured and shaped. After having children or simply encountering challenges in life, unwanted fat can stick around no matter how hard you work. Sometimes, certain areas of the body do not respond to diet and exercise. Body contouring is a great solution for anyone looking to get rid of stubborn fat pockets. There are a variety of surgical methods of body sculpting, including lifts and tucks, and liposuction. Nonsurgical methods of body sculpting include injections, the use of cold temperatures, lasers, or ultrasound waves. Here at The Breast Place, we utilize truSculpt iD from Cutera, which is an FDA-approved, noninvasive fat removal device for quick fat loss. This device uses the latest body sculpting technology personalized to fit anyone, and there is almost no limit to the areas that can be treated, unlike other devices on the market. This technology is clinically proven to provide an average of 24% fat reduction. It also tailors to each patient’s individual needs. truSculpt iD kills fat cells with every treatment and addresses skin laxity with its innovative heat-based technology, known as radiofrequency heat. This targets water in the cells, so it is helpful to make sure you are hydrated before treatment. This differs from Coolsculpting, which uses cold to get rid of fat. The heat causes fat cells to die off which makes the skin tighten rather than become saggy. This can result in giving the skin a more youthful appearance. If you have a cold intolerance, truSculpt iD is a great alternative to Coolsculpting. Body contouring is often used to make people look or feel thinner as well as to attain a certain shape. It is used to target specific unwanted areas, rather than a weight loss method. It is important to note that body contouring is not meant to serve as a weight loss solution. It is generally ideal for people who have already reached their desired weight. For people who have lost a significant amount of weight, body contouring can help get rid of excess skin. Common areas that body contouring is used on the arms, back, belly, and flanks (sometimes known as “love handles”), buttocks, neck, chin, and thighs. Body contouring can also help reduce the appearance of cellulite. Most fat-reducing procedures on the market are only approved for those with a lower body mass index (BMI). However, truSculpt iD can treat people with a BMI of 30 or above. When you first meet with your provider, you will discuss your medical history, including health conditions and previous surgeries. Your provider will examine the target areas, discuss options and make recommendations. Feel free to ask your provider questions about the procedure as well as ask to see photos of before and after results. truSculpt iD requires a minimum of two to four treatments, spaced four to six weeks apart. The best results are seen after completing all treatments, but proven results have been reported in as little as one 15-minute treatment. Since the best results come gradually, this will make the change in your appearance feel more natural to those around you. This non-surgical sculpting has no downtime, which means it can be completed during your lunch break! Cutera describes the treatment as feeling like a “hot stone massage”, and can leave some redness behind on your skin, as well as sensitivity, but you can resume normal activities immediately. 169,695 nonsurgical body contouring procedures were performed in 2016, according to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. With these procedures, only mild side effects such as redness, swelling, and pain were reported. There will be no scarring or discoloration. There are fewer risks associated with nonsurgical body sculpting, because there is no anesthesia involved. These procedures also tend to be less expensive than surgical liposuction procedures. After treatment, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including eating healthy and exercising. Drinking, smoking, and consuming other substances that may affect your metabolism and weight should be avoided. Overall, committing to a healthy lifestyle will help maximize your results. Women may also want to consider body contouring after they are finished having children. The major impact that pregnancy has on the body has the potential to undo results. As you can see, body contouring is an easy, non-invasive way to get rid of stubborn fat, excess skin, or cellulite. There is no downtime and virtually no risks, and treatment is personalized to fit each patient’s needs. If you are interested in this treatment, contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more. We’d be happy to answer any questions you may have! We are committed to empowering women, and we are proud to offer truSculpt iD to help you look and feel your 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! 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 is prepared to answer any questions you may have about your health, your breast cancer risk, and how to reach your aesthetic goals.
At The Breast Place, we offer several oncoplastic surgical procedures, such as natural reconstruction, nipple-sparing mastectomy, Hidden Scar™, implant reconstruction, and breast lift with or without reduction. Oncoplastic surgery is distinct from both breast cancer surgery and plastic surgery–though you initially assume oncoplastic surgery to be a mixture of both. Rather, the aim of oncoplastic breast surgery is “to achieve good aesthetic outcomes for women with breast cancers who would have unacceptable outcomes with other BCS techniques, and in addition, enable breast-conserving surgery for larger breast cancers.” While breast cancer surgery prioritizes the eradication of cancerous tissue and plastic surgery prioritizes the cosmetic appearance of the breasts, oncoplastic surgery takes both of these aspects into account when planning for the final outcome. Our last article was dedicated to what you should look for in an oncoplastic surgeon. We discussed specific certifications available to those who perform oncoplastic surgery, how to judge past outcomes, experience levels, seeking a second opinion, and more! If you’re on the hunt for a skilled, experienced oncoplastic surgeon, we recommend giving our latest article a read and then reaching out to us! Before we dive into today’s topic, we’d like to make you aware of a few promotions available at The Breast Place this February. Though this month is often associated with romantic love, it’s important we remember to also love ourselves. Do we feel good and strong within our own bodies? Have we been practicing self-care with consistency and intentionality? If the answer is no, now is the time to start. If the answer is yes, then continue! The Breast Place is here to help! We’re offering $150 off each syringe of Juvederm Ultra XC, so you can have extra kissable lips this month. As well, each unit of Dysport is only $3. Our Grande Bundle—which includes GrandeLash, GrandeBrow, and GrandeMascara—is only $125. All products ship free! If you haven’t received a breast screening in a while, we encourage you to schedule one. (You can perform a self-exam in the meantime using this resource.) Overall, use February to catch up on your sleep, move your body, eat a balanced diet and prioritize your own wellbeing. Today, we’ll be discussing the implications of genetic testing. Genetic testing is an invaluable resource for detecting those genetic mutations which leave us at an increased risk of developing certain cancers and diseases. This detection can help individuals prepare for the future, make informed decisions about their care, and preempt the actual formation of a particular cancer or disease. That said, many individuals aren’t entirely prepared for the process of genetic testing. From how long it’ll take to receive results to how to deal with the emotional aftermath—genetic testing can be shrouded in mystery. We hope to peel back the veil and give those about to undergo genetic testing a sense of what to expect. At The Breast Place, genetic testing and family history go hand-in-hand. We partner with Ambry Genetics to offer a self-assessment, which—based on the answers you provide—can give you a better sense of your risk status. If you are at an increased risk, then genetic testing may be for you. We partner with AmbryCARE to perform comprehensive genetic assessments based on your DNA sample. To read more about the importance of genetic testing, the process of genetic testing, and who should be tested—check out our previous article about genetic testing. Gene Mutations Not all gene mutations lend themselves to an increased chance of developing breast cancer. The chart below seeks to give a brief overview of each gene and its implications. If you test positive for any of these genetic mutations, you’ll want to have a more in-depth discussion with your genetic counselor to understand the minute implications. Genes and Implications BRCA1 Breast cancer type 1 susceptibility protein (BRCA1) is a type of protein responsible for repairing damaged DNA strands. Known as a caretaker gene, BRCA1 serves to regulate the repair of chromosomal damage, ensuring all damaged genetic information is restored correctly. Damaged DNA stands can cause cells to grow abnormally or multiply quickly. BRCA1 keeps our cells stable and, as such, is considered one of the primary human tumor suppressor genes. When our BRCA1 gene is mutated, its ability to regulate DNA repair is impaired and we are left more susceptible to tumor formation. Between 55% and 72% of females with a harmful BRCA1 mutation will develop breast cancer before the age of eighty. A BRCA1 mutation is associated with an increased risk of developing breast cancer (including triple-negative breast cancer), ovarian cancer, pancreatic cancer, and prostate cancer. BRCA2 Breast cancer type 2 susceptibility protein (BRCA2) is actually a completely unrelated protein to breast cancer type 1 susceptibility protein (BRCA1), though it is also a human tumor suppressor gene. BRCA2 plays an equally significant role in repairing damaged DNA. Technically, BRCA2 is a “mediator of the core mechanism of homologous recombination,” while BRCA1 is a “pleiotropic DDR protein that functions in both checkpoint activation and DNA repair.” Each gene has its specific role. Between 45% and 69% of females with a harmful BRCA2 mutation will develop breast cancer before the age of eighty. A BRCA2 mutation is associated with an increased risk of developing breast cancer, ovarian cancer, melanoma, pancreatic cancer, and prostate cancer. PALB2 PALB2 stands for partner and localizer of BRCA2 and is also known as FANCN. This protein is responsible for repairing double-strand breaks and, therefore, is responsible for protecting the human genome. When we develop breast cancer, the PALB2 gene protein binds to the BRCA2 gene protein and helps carry out its functions within the body (as well as localize its presence, thus stopping tumor growth). You can inherit a mutated PALB2 gene but have two normal BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. However, in this case—if both of your inherited PALB2 genes are mutated—you are at an increased risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer. This risk is about 9.47 times higher. “Women with an abnormal PALB2 gene had a 14% risk of developing breast cancer by age 50 and a 35% risk of developing breast cancer by age 70.” A PALB2 mutation is associated with an increased risk of developing breast cancer, pancreatic cancer, and ovarian cancers. CHEK2 Checkpoint Kinase 2, or CHEK2, is a “cell cycle checkpoint regulator and putative tumor suppressor.” This means, when damaged DNA causes our cells to grow or multiply rapidly, CHEK2 kicks in and acts as a roadblock. CHEK2 also works in tandem with BRCA1 and BRCA1 to ensure our cell’s continued survival even after cell damage has occurred. If you have a harmful mutation to the CHEK2 gene, you are twice as likely to develop breast cancer (as a woman), as well as colorectal cancer, prostate cancer, thyroid cancer, ovarian cancer, and kidney cancer. ATM ATM serine (ATM) or threonine kinase is only activated by double-strand DNA breaks. When DNA is damaged, ATM proliferates several proteins which trigger the checkpoint (mentioned in CHEK2). This checkpoint results in one of three things: cell cycle arrest (full-stop), DNA repair (fix), or apoptosis (cell death). These functions are carried out by other gene proteins, such as BRCA1, BRCA2, CHEK2, and others. A mutated ATM gene can result in a 20-60% increased chance of developing breast cancer; it is also associated with a condition called ataxia-telangiectasia (AT), which is characterized by a lack of muscular coordination, lessened immunity, and a predisposition to certain cancers. The Aftermath Learning you have a genetic mutation can be disorienting, frightening, and overwhelming. It’s important to realize you are not alone and you do have options concerning how you wish to process. Discuss these options—as well as any emotions you may be experiencing—with your genetic counselor and medical provider. The Breast Place is committed to empowering women. Knowledge is power. If you have any questions about how your family history affects you, about genetic testing, or about any of the genes mentioned here today, schedule a consultation with The Breast Place today. 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!  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 is 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 detailed potential treatments for lymphedema. Lymphedema is the accumulation of lymph fluid within the tissue of the body due to obstruction or damage of the lymph vessels. This accumulation corresponds to gradual swelling. Those who have undergone radiation treatment or have had lymph nodes removed may experience lymphedema in the days, weeks, and months afterward. Lymphedema can be painful and debilitating, as the affected area is sensitive and at a greater risk of infection. While chronic lymphedema is currently considered “incurable,” there are a number of steps you can take to heal from mild lymphedema. The Breast Place offers consultation for those suffering with lymphedema and our last article is a good place to begin learning about this condition. If you would like to explore your treatment options, we highly recommend scheduling a consultation with us! Before we dive 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! If you happen to 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! At The Breast Place, we offer several oncoplastic surgical procedures, such as natural reconstruction, nipple-sparing mastectomy, Hidden Scar™, implant reconstruction, and breast lift with or without reduction. Oncoplastic surgery is distinct from both breast cancer surgery and plastic surgery–though you initially assume oncoplastic surgery to be a mixture of both. Rather, the aim of Oncoplastic breast surgery is “to achieve good aesthetic outcomes for women with breast cancers who would have unacceptable outcomes with other BCS techniques, and in addition, enable breast-conserving surgery for larger breast cancers.” While breast cancer surgery prioritizes the eradication of cancerous tissue and plastic surgery prioritizes the cosmetic appearance of the breasts, Oncoplastic surgery takes both of these aspects into account when planning for the final outcome. There’s a reason insurance providers who cover mastectomies are required by federal law to also cover breast reconstructions (as mentioned in our What to Consider Before Your Breast Reconstruction article). Cosmetic concerns matter to survivors and, as such, should be taken into account. The objectives of Oncoplastic surgery are often four-fold: 1) the cancer-free survival of the patient, 2) the conservation of the breasts, 3) a speedy recovery, and 4) a reduction of the overall amount of surgical procedures needed to arrive at the final outcome. The Breast Place only works with medical providers who are trained and certified in Oncoplastic breast surgery, including but not limited to those listed above. Of course, when consulting with providers for Oncoplastic surgery, they should always be trained and certified. In today’s article, we’ll discuss what else to look for in an Oncoplastic surgeon. We want to make sure you achieve the best outcome, regardless of your procedure, and that starts with choosing the best possible Oncoplastic surgeon! Certification To gain the Oncoplastic Surgery Certification from The American Society of Breast Surgeons, a physician will need to also have certification from the American Board of Surgery (or the American Osteopathic Board of Surgery or an international equivalent). They’ll need to show they’ve undergone the necessary amount of training which, in addition to education, includes at least one year of performing Oncoplastic procedures (with a minimum of 20 breast oncoplastic procedures per year). They’ll need to complete 20 AMA-PRA Category 1 continuing medical education credits in oncoplastic surgery, perform a written examination, and submit an oncoplastic clinical case application (which includes reports of successfully completed oncoplastic surgery cases and pictures). As you can tell, this is a rigorous process, but these are merely the minimum prerequisites for a physician to be considered for an Oncoplastic Surgery Certification. Consider this standard of knowledge and care when choosing your oncoplastic surgeon. Outcomes & Experience The past outcomes of a particular surgeon may not be readily available, but should be provided when requested. Most oncoplastic surgeons are eager to showcase their skills and will have plenty of photographs displaying the results of their past cases. If an oncoplastic surgeon cannot show you any photographic evidence of their past surgical experience, this is a red flag. As well, if an oncoplastic surgeon has years of experience and no references (i.e. patient testimonials) this might be reason enough to pause. Ultimately, the desirability of an oncoplastic surgeon rests on their ability to give sound medical advice, perform complex procedures successfully, and deliver positive postoperative results for their patients. If you have an opportunity to speak with a past patient of an oncoplastic surgeon (who has undergone the surgery you’re hoping to have performed), this can be an opportunity to ask questions. Always Seek a Second Opinion Not all oncoplastic surgeons are made equal. While the first oncoplastic surgeon you consult with may suit your basic requirements, it’s always good to seek a second opinion. In general, you should always seek a second opinion after a medical diagnosis or treatment plan is proposed. When comparing oncoplastic surgeons, use the metrics we provided above. Which certifications do they both possess? How many years of experience do they have? What are their past outcomes? What do their previous patients have to say? Often, an oncoplastic surgeon’s experience will influence their preferred treatment methods. A confident oncoplastic surgeon will recommend the best oncoplastic procedure for you based on your eligibility, not their capability. Are you eligible for oncoplastic surgery? Most women are eligible for oncoplastic surgery, but eligibility can vary depending on your aesthetic goals. If you would like a reconstruction along with a reduction, you’ll need enough breast tissue to accommodate the techniques required. Likewise, if you’ve had multiple lumpectomies, your eligibility may need to be determined by your oncoplastic surgeon. It’s always better to consult with an oncoplastic surgeon soon rather than later. The earlier in your breast cancer journey you decide how you’d like to proceed cosmetically, the less procedures you’re likely to end up having. An article published in the Current Breast Cancer Reports, concluded: “The principles of oncoplastic surgery are applicable to all breast cancer surgery, although the options it can offer will have much more relevance to some women than others. The primary aim is always disease eradication, but the physical effects of this can and should be minimized. A range of techniques is possible spanning from very simple and functional, to complex and cosmetic, but women who may benefit can only do so if it is offered.” We believe the physical and psychological wellness of breast cancer patients and breast cancer survivors should be accounted for and that’s why we offer oncoplastic surgical procedures performed by expert oncoplastic surgeons. The Hidden Scar™ surgery involves the strategic placement of incisions to make surgical removal of diseased tissue appear virtually nonexistent. A nipple-sparing mastectomy, as the name suggests, uses a special technique to retain the existing nipple when a mastectomy is required. A natural reconstruction uses fat tissue from the patient’s own to rebuild the breasts, while an implant reconstruction uses implants. A breast lift (with or without reduction) simply rearranges the breast tissue. To learn more about these oncoplastic procedures, reach out to us! 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! |
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