It is almost impossible to turn on the TV
these days without finding a programme on plastic surgery. Breast enlargement and reduction are often
featured and it seems that everyone from celebrities to the woman on the street
are considering some form of breast surgery.
Losing a breast is to cancer, however, is a
devastating loss to a woman on top of the shock of learning that she has the
disease. The thought that breast reconstruction might be able to restore a
breast is a beacon of hope in what can otherwise seem a bleak landscape. Surprisingly however, only 50% of women who
could have breast reconstruction actually go on to have the surgery. This may be because, until now, breast
reconstruction has not been straightforward and often multiple operations have
been needed.
Through Raft’s groundbreaking research
programme, our scientists are now close to a breakthrough that will transform
breast reconstruction surgery for women all over the world. The Life After
Breast Cancer Fund has raised £2 million in funding for two research projects
and those research projects are aiming high, with reliable surgical procedures
due to be delivered within the next 2 years.
Millions of pounds are spent on research into
breast cancer treatment every year but we believe that RAFT is the only
organisation that is researching techniques that will improve breast
reconstruction surgery. We know that for women who have undergone lumpectomy
and mastectomy their journey will not end when their treatment finishes. In
many cases, this is just beginning of their struggle.
Soon, however, it will be possible for women to
have breast reconstruction surgery that will rebuild the shape, appearance and the
natural feel that they want, without extensive surgery and uncertainty about
the results.
At Raft we know that a diagnosis of breast
cancer is devastating especially in a younger woman who may have more
pronounced body image issues. The
thought of never being able to comfortably wear a halter-neck dress or bikini can
seem like another cruel blow on top of the diagnosis. That is why we at Raft have worked hard to
offer viable reconstructive breast surgery, so that women who have had breast
cancer can concentrate on rebuilding their lives, not their bodies.
http://lifeafterbreastcancerfund.org/
RAFT - keeping you healthier in your world