An inequality in breast reconstruction options for mastectomy patients has been highlighted by a West Sussex hospital.
The Queen Victoria Hospital (QVH) announced that women considering breast reconstruction following breast cancer are often not given the full range of options available for reconstruction in what can sometimes be a ‘postcode lottery' - and may end up choosing an option that isn't right for them or which requires further plastic surgery in the future. In light of this, the hospital has launched a free DVD, available nationally, which gives comprehensive information about the reconstruction options available, as well as information on ‘finishing touches' such as nipple reconstruction and nipple tattooing.
The DVD (www.breastreconstructionforlife.org.uk) includes the personal journey of a woman undergoing the procedure, and interviews with other women in the process and gives expert advice on the best options and how to go about accessing them.
According to Charles Nduka, consultant plastic surgeon at QVH who directed the DVD:
"There are four different options for breast reconstruction following mastectomy but not all of these are offered as a standard, and indeed in hospitals where there isn't a plastic surgeon the patient may never know the full range of alternatives. This DVD seeks to raise awareness of the options and techniques so that women can make the right choice for their lifestyle."
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