Reclaiming Confidence After Breast Cancer
Prosthetic Reconstruction Empowers Patient’s Healing Journey
By: Maria Alejandra Pulgar
In honor of the many friends and family members
who have gone through this journey
Going through a life-altering mastectomy surgery after a breast cancer diagnosis is a difficult journey. Even though it is often necessary for the treatment, the scar it leaves in a woman goes beyond the physical realm. The psychological impact of a mastectomy is deep and require a compassionate and professional approach to guide and support a woman through the recovery process.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to focus on the importance of early detection and treatment, and to honor the women who have bravely confronted this condition. Studies have found that a strong support during the decision-making process of a mastectomy leads to more successful recoveries after cancer treatments and reconstructive surgeries. One way that to help women reclaim confidence, and regain a sense of normalcy after a mastectomy, is with the use of breast prosthetics.
Breast prosthetics are not just cosmetic devices; they can play a significant role in a woman’s physical and mental well-being after breast cancer surgery. Prostheses can help women with balance and posture and can also reduce pain and discomfort. Psychologically, prosthetics can help women feel more whole and confident in their bodies. Studies have shown that women who wear prosthetics after mastectomy have a better body image and quality of life.
Hope Mastectomy, a boutique established in 2016 by John Almonacid, was created with the vision of providing comprehensive post-mastectomy care to women in need. Inspired by his previous experiences in the medical field, Mr. Almonacid created the store to offer essential services to the community, including fittings, post-mastectomy supplies and lymphedema care.
Almonacid’s vision for Hope Mastectomy extends beyond providing essential products and services. The company aims to “enhance patient’s health and wellbeing”, becoming a leading supplier of customer care services, catering to their patient’s physical, personal and emotional needs, and making women feel confident and supported in their healing journey, by providing them with personalized care and valuable resources that generate a positive impact on the lives of breast cancer survivors.
How to choose the best prosthetic?
At Hope Mastectomy, patients can find a wide selection of high-quality products from reputable brands, carefully curated to meet their specific needs. The company’s team of dedicated professionals, including mastectomy fitters, works collaboratively to ensure that each patient receives personalized attention and support.
Part of the decision-making process when women are considering breast cancer surgery should include consulting their doctors about the option of using prosthesis and when is the best moment to begin. The initial consultation before the surgery is ideal, as Mr.Almonacid explained, because a prothesis is recommended to be used after four to six weeks after surgery, to allow time for healing and swelling to subside.
Hope Mastectomy offers a variety of prostheses designed to suit different lifestyles and preferences, such as lightweight options for daily activities or a more durable choices for exercise. Women should talk to their doctor about the best options for their case, and the experts at Hope Mastectomy may assist to find the perfect fit thar will allow them to feel they are on the track to regaining their health, life and future.
Organized to support healing
Sometimes finance is an issue for patients to gain access to prosthetics. Mr. Almonacid explained that at Hope Mastectomy they work closely with various foundations and support groups to offer emotional support and resources. They also have financial assistance options, and work with the insurances, to allow patients to receive the best care that they need, as coverage may vary.
Beyond the physical aspect of using a prosthesis, the comfort and self-esteem of women going through a mastectomy is paramount. Counting with a multidisciplinary team to support the process makes a positive difference in the outcome for the patients.
Hope Mastectomy is accredited by the American Board for Certification Orthotics, Prosthetics, Inc. (ABCOP) with rigorous standards in the profession. They are working on expanding their services to Central Florida, where it is currently very limited
For more information on the products and services you can consult www.hopemastectomy.com
