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Emotionally Preparing for Surgery
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by Karen T.
Mastectomy is not only a physical procedure, but also an emotional one. There are
things that you can do to reduce the backlash of that.
Your breasts are a big part of you. They are intrinsically linked to your
sexuality, womanhood, and relationships. Losing one or both of your breasts
can bring about the grieving process as long and severe as a close
friend's death. Following are several ideas that may help get you through the grieving process.
As soon as possible after diagnosis and before mastectomy, think about what you
would like to do with your breasts while you still have them. Plan to do those
things on your list before the mastectomy. Your list will be personal to you.
The point is to avoid an "I wish I had done . . ." scenario.
Take photos of your breasts. You may never look at these photos again, but
you will be glad that you have them.
Be aware of how your breasts feel day-to-day. Be aware of how they react. I am
sure that you have heard that people with amputations still "feel" the missing
whatever-it-is. This helps you in at least two ways. Firstly, it is easier to
regain your balance after the operation. Secondly, the "hole" left in your life
is diminished. Four years after mastectomy I can still "feel" my nipple harden
when I sneeze. If I wasn't aware that this happened, every time I sneezed now
I would be reminded of my loss.
Go on the Internet and look at photos of ladies who have had mastectomies. It
will prepare you for how your body will look after the procedure.
If you are considering reconstruction (or not) research the options thoroughly.
There are many different types of reconstruction available and they're all very
different from one another. They have different recovery times, different
effects on the rest of your body, and so on. While you may not have control over
your mastectomy, you will have an element of control over whether or not you
have reconstruction.
Carry around a small notebook wherever you go. If you have a question--no
matter how "silly" or "trivial"--write it down and ask your consultant or
breast nurse at your next appointment. So often the emotional upheaval is
extreme, making asking those questions the last thing on your mind at your
appointments.
Don't worry about things you cannot control.
Don't be afraid to seek professional help and guidance.
This website is for personal support information only. Nothing should be construed as medical advice. Please note that this article as a subjective article, not as a medical article. If you have any questions or concerns, ask your doctor. Article by Karen T., February 2008, for Flattops. Karen is a mental health counselor.
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