In 1998, a federal law went into place that provides protections to patients who choose to have breast reconstruction in connection with a mastectomy. Even though the Women's Health and Cancer Rights Act (WHCRA) has been around for nearly 20 years, we are contacted far too often by women wishing they had the choice to reconstruct or that they would've known that they even had the option following their mastectomy. We always advocate that breast reconstruction is a personal choice. It's your body, and it's your decision, but we all deserve to know more about our options.
Did you know...
- If your lumpectomy left you with results that you are not pleased with, you can see a plastic surgeon to review your options for reconstruction?
- If you have a unilateral mastectomy, and chose to rebuild your breast, you can also reduce or lift the other to keep symmetry, if you wish?
- If you have a bilateral mastectomy and opt out of reconstruction, that a plastic surgeon can still help with scarring and any excess tissue that may have been a result of the procedure?
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That you have the option for your port to be placed in your arm, instead of your chest?
My plastic surgeon told me that, NOT my oncologist!
What is BRA Day?
I had the honor to be interviewed by Plastic Surgery News in their annual Breast Reconstruction Supplement to discuss these important issues about choice and decision making. I also got to highlight our incredible #CancerlandxAO New York Fashion Week show EXPOSED. We put 16 courageous individuals on the runway to show the world what breast cancer really looks like … with or without breasts. We are complete, we are proud, and we will stand tall together, as a united front, as we conquer this disease once and for all. It is with heavy hearts that we have already said goodbye to two of the #Magnificent16 already this year, as a result of metastatic breast cancer.
So to say I am humbled to stand next to so many supporters of AnaOno in the plastic surgery community is not even touching on how incredibly thankful I am. I'm thankful that they not only continue to find innovative and alternative options, not just to reconstruct a breast that was ravaged by cancer, but also to find ways to keep us intact, without having to lose a vital piece of our sexuality and identity.
BRAS FOR BREAST CANCER SURVIVORS
At AnaOno, we're excited to spread the word about BRA Day. If you're a breast cancer survivor, thriver or previvor, we're here to help you find the best bras for your post-mastectomy body-regardless of whether you choose reconstruction.
For those who wish to remain flat and fabulous, we offer a great collection of flat bras that can be worn during mastectomy recovery and beyond. Our pocketed full coverage bra, the Molly, for example, is a favorite since the wire-free, stretch fabric designs conforms to your shape after a single or double mastectomy. It can lay flat or you can use the built-in pockets to hold lightweight breast forms or prostheses.
We also have plenty of bras for reconstruction after mastectomy. The Pocketed Front Closure Bra is wonderful for wearing during recovery as your incision sites heal. We also recommend the Delilah Dream Soft Cup Bra and the Gloria Pocketed Wire-Free Bra, both of which combine gentle support with a flattering fit.
Browse our full collection of bras at AnaOno to find the best fit for your unique needs.
Thank You
