The Breast Reconstruction Guidebook: Issues and Answers from Research to Recovery

By Kathy Steligo

Book Overview

The definitive guide to breast reconstruction.

Since 2002, The Breast Reconstruction Guidebook has been the best resource on this topic for women who have had a mastectomy. Equal parts science and support, it is filled with stories that illustrate the emotional and physical components of breast reconstruction. Kathy Steligo, a gifted writer and breast cancer survivor who has twice had breast reconstruction, compassionately answers women's questions about how they will respond emotionally and physically to losing a breast, whether to treat or prevent breast cancer. Steligo provides detailed descriptions of the various surgical options for mastectomy and reconstruction, as well as information on choosing and paying for a surgeon, preparing for and recovering from surgery, and handling the many practical details and difficult decisions women will face along the way. A road map of the mastectomy and reconstruction journey, this book gives women the comprehensive, unbiased details they need to make their own informed decisions about whether reconstruction--and which reconstructive option--is right for them.

Readers learn how breasts can be recreated using implants or their own tissue and the advantages and disadvantages of each option. Surgery timelines, recovery, and potential problems (and how they can be resolved) are also explained. A new foreword by Dr. Minas Chrysopoulo, MD, of the PRMA Plastic Surgery Center for Advanced Breast Reconstruction, highlights the book's strengths and offers a medical perspective on breast cancer and reconstructive surgery.

The extensively updated text includes new discussions of
- innovative reconstructive procedures
- contralateral mastectomy
- the benefits and limitations of nipple- and areola-sparing mastectomies
- nipple delay procedure
- patient-controlled tissue expansion
- cohesive gel silicone implants
- microsurgical advances that improve tissue flap procedures
- fat grafting
- nipple reconstruction
- nipple and areola tattooing
- reconstruction with the BRAVA system
- pregnancy after TRAM
- male mastectomy and reconstruction
- decision making and solving cosmetic and medical post-op problems
- surgical procedures that reduce the risk of cancer
- the latest research data on mastectomy and reconstruction
- and much more

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1421422964
• ISBN13: 9781421422961
• Release Date: August 2017
• Publisher: Johns Hopkins University Press
• Length: 288 Pages
• Weight: 0.94 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 5.9" x 9.0"
• Age Range: 18 years and up
• Grade Range: Postsecondary and higher

Customer Reviews

A Must Read for Any Breast Cancer Patient

I had spent countless hours researching the different reconstruction options when I was fortunate enough to read about this book on the Young Survival Coalition's message board. I immediately ordered it and was amazed at the clear descriptions of the procedures. I also loved the section that guided you on how to prepare for the surgery. I can't say enough about this book! Jennifer Tom Founder of Positively Pink Packages

Valuable Pre- and Post-Surgery Guidebook

What a valuable resource. Kathy Steligo puts all the facts in layperson's terms without talking down to the reader. In fact, her friendly tone made me think she was talking just to me. The book answered so many of my questions in a very reassuring way. Obviously, it can't replace a consultation with a plastic surgeon, but it really augments what I learned from my doctor. I plan to share this book with my plastic surgeon.

Get this book and read it before your next appointment.

This guidebook is excellent-it quickly brought me up to speed on all the current techniques for reconstructive surgery, how they compare, and what factors to consider for each one-before, during and after. The author is so down-to-earth that she makes learning about complex options-ones she's had to face herself-a lot easier. Knowing what questions to ask and how to understand the answers makes a huge difference when talking to your doctor. Get this book and read it before your next appointment.

The Breast Reconstruction Guidebook

This book is exactly what I prayed for when I was told I would need a breast biopsy. I wanted to approach even the slight possibility of a mastectomy with knowledge.I didn't know where to turn with my many questions and I wasn't even sure about what to ask until I discovered this excellent book with clear explanations on breast cancer surgery and reconstruction. Kathy Steligo's meticulous research and information on available resources took an enormous load off my mind at an extremely stressful time.

Wow! Where was this book when I needed it?

Wow! Where was this book when I needed it? Kathy Steligo has left no stone unturned. "The Breast Reconstruction Guidebook" should be sitting on every surgeon's desk during consultations. Finally, someone has filled in all the blanks meticulously. I am speechless...absolutely mesmerized with the generous, honest information and diligent details.