Breast Cancer Awareness: How Tissue Donation Impacts Experiences with Double Mastectomy and Reconstruction

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and Donor Alliance is educating people about how the lifesaving and healing gifts of tissue can help those recovering from a double mastectomy. One person can save up to eight lives through organ donation and save and heal up to 75 lives through tissue donation. This includes breast reconstruction.

Understanding Double Mastectomy and Breast Reconstruction: Procedure and Recovery Process

A double mastectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of both breasts, often as a preventive measure in cases of genetic predisposition to breast cancer. This intricate process consists of several crucial steps, with a unique twist in some cases: the inclusion of donated tissue from someone who passed away. Donated tissue, such as fat grafts or skin flaps from the patient’s own body or tissue from a donor, plays a vital role in the reconstruction process, ensuring a more natural, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing result. Beyond the surgery itself, one of the most common concerns is the recovery time. While recovery can vary from person to person, incorporating donated tissue can potentially expedite the healing process. It promotes blood flow and tissue regeneration, ultimately helping patients on their journey towards physical and emotional recovery.

Cathy’s Story

Eight years ago, Cathy Holman of Wyoming received a preventative double mastectomy, including reconstructive surgery. Both her mother and sister suffered from breast cancer. Due to her hereditary risk, Cathy decided a double mastectomy was the best option for facing what was likely the inevitable. The journey, both physically and emotionally, was long. One thing many people don’t consider when getting a double mastectomy with reconstructive surgery is the fact they will likely be utilizing donated tissue from a donor during the reconstruction.  For those considering a double mastectomy, whether as a preventative measure or after facing breast cancer head-on, Cathy’s story will help you through the process. 

You can learn more about Cathy’s journey at prairiewifeinheels.com

Coping with the Emotional and Physical Aspects of Double Mastectomy

One of the things that helped Cathy prepare for the double mastectomy was having a surgeon who provided options. Initially, Cathy wanted to use her own tissue to support her reconstruction, but unfortunately, she did not have enough excess tissue. This led to a discussion about donated tissue. Donated tissue allows for a more natural-looking reconstruction and provides more support. Cathy explained how she was able to play, hold her kids, and enjoy life because of her generous tissue donor. Just one tissue donor can help up to 10 patients undergoing breast reconstruction.

Healthy Habits That Help during a Double Mastectomy Recovery and Breast Reconstruction Process

Cathy’s recovery following her double mastectomy and reconstruction was no easy task; thankfully, the donated tissue made it easier. Many people don’t realize a double mastectomy and reconstruction surgery is not a one-time procedure. It requires multiple surgeries over the course of a few months to a year. Being active and eating healthy allows for a strong and healthy recovery from a double mastectomy and reconstruction. Ultimately, donated tissue helps immensely with this process. It allows the recipient to become active more quickly and ease back into their normal life.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Ways to Get Involved

By registering to be an organ, eye, and tissue donor, you can one day help someone in need of breast reconstruction. Additionally, tissue transplants help tens of thousands of people each year suffering from trauma, disease or blindness. Registering is easy! Simply say “Yes” and check the box the next time you get your driver license or state ID. You can also register today at DonorAlliance.org.