BRAve Face
My journey to breast reconstruction is different than most patients. In 2013, I was diagnosed with ovarian cancer at age 44. Because of my strong family history of cancer, I had BRAC 1 testing done and it was positive.
I opted to have bilateral prophylactic mastectomies with immediate breast reconstruction. I chose this option to decrease my risk of future breast cancer. This entailed removal of underlying breast tissue with a skin sparing technique and nipple graft with immediate placement of tissue expanders. I also needed a “mesh material” to help provide support for my tissue expanders and future implants so Dr. Jewell used Seri Scaffold during my surgery as well. This surgery was performed in November of 2013 and in August of 2014, I had my permanent implants placed.
While my journey has not been a straight path, because ovarian cancer was my primary cancer, it is a journey that I have faced head on while not always easy I have tried to have a positive attitude about myself and my future.
Dawn Isenhour
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