Nipple and breast prosthetics can help patients regain confidence and comfort after surgery
Prosthetics can be an option for women who have undergone mastectomies or other breast surgeries, according to an interview with CU OB-GYN’s Jessica Pettigrew. The article for Giddy highlights the important role that these prosthetics can play in helping women to regain a sense of normalcy and self-confidence after surgery, as well as the importance of addressing the mental health impacts of mastectomy.
It’s also important for patients to discuss all aspects of treatment and surgery with healthcare providers. Keep in mind that nipples may not always be removed during a mastectomy, so this may not be an issue.
“One conversation…women undergoing mastectomy need to have is whether to have a nipple-sparing mastectomy or to remove the nipples with the breast and have the option for tattooed nipples after expanders are placed.”
– Jessica Pettigrew
Breast surgery, especially mastectomy, can have a significant impact on a woman’s physical and emotional well-being. The loss of a breast, or both breasts, can lead to feelings of grief, loss and body image issues. These feelings are natural and are a normal part of the grieving process, but they can also have a negative impact on a woman’s mental health if they are not addressed. Whether choosing tattooing, prosthetics or reconstruction after surgery, women should know their options and speak to their healthcare provider about the pros and cons.