Effective decision analysis, long used in business to exhaustively consider options prior to making major a commitment, is being used increasingly in the medical field to assist patients in navigating the choices available when considering breast reconstruction and other medical procedures.
As with any major surgical procedure, breast reconstruction should not be entered into without first weighing many factors regarding the operation. Effective decision analysis assists patients and surgeons by providing a plan for a methodical analysis of options, risks, and potential outcomes of the selected procedure.
Breast Reconstruction Post-Mastectomy
A mastectomy can be a traumatic experience, nearly equal to the initial diagnosis of cancer itself. The decision to reconstruct the breast tissue after such a procedure is one that should be made with great care and with the assistance of a qualified medical professional who can lead you through all the options available to you.
The board certified plastic surgeons at Boulder Plastic Surgery have years of experience guiding patients through the emotional process of selecting the appropriate procedures to help them rebuild their sense of self after a diagnosis of cancer and removal of the affected tissue.
Considerations Prior to Breast Reconstruction
There are a number of issues that a surgeon will want to go over before scheduling the procedure, among the most pressing items to consider prior to opting for breast reconstruction surgery are:
- The overall physical health of the patient – Are there any underlying conditions that could interfere with complete healing after the surgery?
- The emotional health of the patient – Is the patient coping well with their cancer diagnosis and treatment plan? Does the patient require psychological counseling prior to moving forward with the procedure?
- The patient’s realistic view of the surgery itself – Does the patient fully understand the scope of the procedure and its limitations? Does the patient have a clear understanding of the likely outcome of the procedure?
Let Boulder Plastic Surgery Help You Choose the Best Options for Your Breast Reconstruction
Contact Boulder Plastic Surgery at (303) 578-4193 and schedule a consultation with one of our board certified plastic surgeons. Together we can help you decide which option best reflects your values and is most likely to result in your desired outcome, getting you back to where you want to be.