Based on data gathered in this way, the oncologist can determine the ILLNESS STAGE.
Treatment plan
Breast cancer can be treated by means of surgical, radiation and systems methods – medications.Oncological-reconstruction treatment council sessions:
The oncologist and the reconstructive surgeon talk to each patient individually, whereby the oncologist presents the diagnosis and the options available in oncological treatment, while the plastic surgeon presents options available in relation to the reconstruction. The treatment plan is always decided upon collectively by the patient, the oncologist and the plastic surgeon. Decisions are based on the planned oncological treatment, physical characteristics (size and sagginess of the breasts), and the preferences of patients who participates in the decision-making process related to the method of treatment and accepts her part of the responsibility.Various additional procedures on the healthy breast may also be arranged with the patient in order to improve the treatment results. In view of the type and stage of the illness, the oncologist may propose radiation and/or supplementary hormonal and cytological treatment.
Surgical treatment
Surgical treatment is conducted under general anaesthesia and usually consists of two stages, the oncological and the reconstruction stage.During the ONCOLOGICAL STAGE, the surgeon removes a part or the entire breast.
In the course of the PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTION STAGE, the surgeon can carry out breast reconstruction, i.e. he can reconstruct a breast that is similar in shape and volume to the one existing prior to the oncological treatment, namely by means of implants, own body tissue or a combination of both.
The method of treatment is subject to patient's decision based on suitable information obtained at one of the oncological-reconstruction council sessions and from patients who have already undergone breast cancer treatment and are familiar with the procedures carried out during the treatment.
Additional assistance provided by a psychologist and patients who have already undergone breast cancer treatment
If a patient is unable to make a decision regarding treatment by herself she can consult a psychologist and/or patients who have already undergone breast cancer treatment and are generously prepared to provide assistance to fellow patients before and during the treatment.Preparation for surgery
Before the surgery, patients must prepare themselves both psychologically and physically. The patient must be supplied with complete information on every procedure to be undertaken prior, during and after the surgery, thus avoiding surprises and fear of the unknown. Part of the direct preparation for the operation consists of an examination and conversation with the anaesthesiologist, during which the patient is familiarised with the anaesthesia procedures, waking from anaesthesia and hospital care received immediately after the operation.Ceasing to smoke must undoubtedly also be part of pre-surgery preparations.
Rehabilitation
After the procedure, rehabilitation is necessary, comprised of various exercises directly after the procedure, along with continued medical treatment which is important for both psychological and physical rehabilitation. Support provided by partners, family members, friends and colleagues certainly helps a lot.Treating breast cancer patients is a "project" which involves large groups of people. If they work in a co-ordinated manner, with dedication and professionalism, the treatment can represent nothing more but a transitional period, and no matter how uncommon and unpleasant, it is then only temporary. When completed, it brings joy and relief, recovery and new experience as well as bonds of friendship which undoubtedly improve the post-illness quality of life. Patients are therefore advised to set on, with courage and will-power, the path towards the greatest goal possible, the recovery of their health which brings back a smile, the most beautiful of all fashion accessories.
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