Springfield, Mo. – As Breast Cancer Awareness Month draws to a close, three CoxHealth plastic surgeons are reminding local women that early detection and informed choices about reconstruction can make a profound difference.
Screening is the first line of defense
Dr. Robert Shaw emphasized that one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. “Mammograms are a great study. Please get them done for sure. Follow the guidelines—usually 40 years and above,” he said, acknowledging that the procedure can be uncomfortable but is essential for early treatment.
Dr. Connor Barnes added that women with a family history should discuss earlier or more frequent screening with their primary‑care physician. “If there are people out there with a mother, a daughter, an aunt, or somebody with breast cancer, it’s probably a good idea to ask your primary care physician,” he advised.
Genetic testing expands risk assessment
CoxHealth’s high‑risk clinic now offers genetic testing beyond the BRCA gene, allowing doctors to estimate a patient’s likelihood of developing breast cancer. Barnes noted that about 30% of the mastectomies his team performs are preventive, with some patients in their 20s facing a 30%‑40% risk due to family history.
Reconstruction options have evolved
All three surgeons agreed that breast reconstruction has changed dramatically over the past two decades and is rarely completed in a single operation. Shaw explained that most reconstructions at CoxHealth are implant‑based and typically involve two stages: first placing a tissue expander, then gradually filling it before swapping it for a permanent implant.
Barnes highlighted advances in implants and surgical mesh that give patients more choices and often eliminate the need to move tissue from the abdomen or back, reducing scarring and recovery time. Dr. Ronald Bossert noted that using a patient’s own tissue remains a viable, “tried and true,” option for many.
Recovery and long‑term care
Patients usually have surgical drains removed after one to two weeks and are back to normal activities within four to six weeks. For those who lose a nipple and areola during mastectomy, reconstruction can include recreating these features, sometimes with the help of local tattoo artists who volunteer their time.
Implants typically last about 15 years, so patients should anticipate ongoing follow‑up care. “It’s not just a physical diagnosis and treatment; it’s also a very emotional procedure and experience for lots of women,” Shaw said.
Support networks and resources
Both Shaw and Barnes stressed the importance of emotional support. Bossert observed that patients today have stronger support networks than in the past, helping them cope with the grieving process.
For women without insurance or who cannot afford screening, the Breast Cancer Foundation of the Ozarks offers assistance. Shaw also suggested asking primary‑care doctors about mobile mammography services and other community resources.
Choosing a qualified surgeon
Barnes urged patients to verify that their surgeon is board‑certified in plastic surgery, recommending the American Board of Plastic Surgery’s website for verification.
By combining early detection, personalized risk assessment, and modern reconstruction techniques, Springfield’s CoxHealth team aims to give women the confidence to look in the mirror and feel whole again.
Original reporting: KY3 Springfield (local) — read the source article.
