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The mere announcement to a woman that she must be taken to surgery for some finding in her breast is a factor of anxiety and disorganization. When there is suspicion or even certainty of malignancy, anxiety multiplies, as the development and further course of the disease seem difficult and threatening.

In this condition, the attending physician, usually the breast surgeon who informs the patient, plays a decisive role. The choice of words, his attitude and the overall empathy he demonstrates, aim to provide a substantial understanding of the situation from the patient’s perspective, psychological support and a clear answer to any questions.

The ultimate goal is for each patient to feel that she is not facing this challenge alone, that we are not standing opposite her, but beside her.

Of fundamental importance is the existence ofpreoperative diagnosis, which unfortunately is not always possible. In the majority of cases, a biopsy is performed to obtain material from the tumor or suspicious area and to ensure that both the patient and the surgeon know clearly what they are going to face. This allows the surgery to be planned more effectively and all appropriate treatment options are made available to us. In some cases, these options also include the possibility of administering preoperative treatment, with the aim of designing the optimal, personalized plan for each patient. A clear treatment plan, without uncertainties, helps the patient to better understand her condition and to go into surgery with reduced anxiety and greater mental preparedness.

It is particularly important to form realistic expectations regarding the type of surgery that will be chosen. Usually, the aesthetic restoration is very good andin most quarterectomies the appearance of the breast does not change. However, if we know in advance that a slight deformity or anisomastia may occur, that is, one breast may appear slightly smaller than the other due to the removal of the tumor, we must have informed the patient about what to expect. Honest and clear information allows us to stand by the patient, seeing the situation through her own eyes.

Stages of recovery

Recovery and the immediate postoperative course after breast surgery is usually rapid and relatively simple.

• Just a few hours after the procedure, most patients feel quite well

• For the first 24 hours we recommend avoiding driving or operating dangerous machinery, due to the effect of general anesthesia. It is also a good idea to avoid exposure to water (shower or sea) for a few days. During the first twenty-four hours, rest and avoiding tiring or strenuous work significantly help in a quick recovery

• The first two weeks visits to the gym and sports activities should be avoided, in order to reduce the risk of injuries or damage

• After the first few days, most patients rarely experience pain or weakness, as the recovery is not particularly demanding. Thus, women who have undergone breast surgery can soon return without any problems to their family, work and daily obligations.

Waiting for the results

Waiting for the results is a particularly difficult period, in which the role of the surgeon is crucial. Anxiety, many questions and concern for both the patient and her family are completely normal. A practical and useful tip is to record the questions. Thus, the patient can come to each visit with a prepared “agenda” so that she can discuss everything that concerns her with the doctor and receive clear answers.

Announcement of results

The announcement of the results and the determination of the treatment plan (complementary therapies, follow-up) are probably a particularly stressful process. The most useful advice to our patients is to come accompanied by a person from their close environment. The presence of a familiar person offers support, contributes to listening to the information with greater composure and helps in managing the emotional charge of the moment.

At theAthens Medical Center, supporting our patients is an absolute priority. We stand by them with empathy and love, creating bonds of life that unite us forever.