Reconstructing Aphrodite



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Single Stage Breast Reconstruction

The women in Reconstructing Aphrodite have undergone a supplementary breast surgery following their mastectomy called Single Stage Breast Reconstruction. The surgery allows for the reconstruction of the breast with one operation that is completed during the same procedure as the mastectomy. In effect, the woman wakes up after her mastectomy with a newly formed breast.

Breast reconstruction can be accomplished by the use of a prosthesis (a breast implant, either silicone gel or saline-filled), your own tissues (a tissue flap), or a combination of the two. A tissue flap is a section of skin, fat, and/or muscle which is moved from your stomach, back, or other area of your body to the chest area, and shaped into a new breast.

Women who have reconstruction with or without breast implants, will probably undergo additional surgeries to improve symmetry and appearance. For example, because the nipple is often removed with the breast tissue in mastectomy, the nipple is often reconstructed by using a skin graft from the opposite breast or by tattooing the area. Nipple reconstruction is usually done as a separate outpatient procedure after the initial reconstruction surgery is complete.

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Your purchase of this book of elegant photographs and intimate stories benefits The Breast Cancer Fund.

Art.Rage.Us. - The Art and Outrage of Breast Cancer

A glorious full-color book of stunning art and writing by over 70 women who have faced breast cancer.

The collection depicted in Art.Rage.Us. is currently touring the U.S.