How to Care For Your Mental Health Before and After Breast Reconstruction

Breast cancer doesn’t just take a big physical toll – it can also impact your mental health. Many women feel that fighting breast cancer is as much an emotional journey as it is a physical one. At The Breast Center Park Meadows Cosmetic Surgery, we’re continually impressed by the inner strength of our patients. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or upset about your breast reconstruction, you’re not alone. The tips below are often helpful for patients as they cope with the mental challenges of breast reconstruction.

Know That Your Reaction Is Normal (No Matter What It Is)

There’s no right or wrong way to react to the news that you have breast cancer or need breast reconstruction. Anger, anxiety, irritability, sadness, grief, and even relief at finally having a concrete answer are all completely normal reactions. Your emotions about breast reconstruction – positive or negative – are valuable and worth honoring.

Mental Health Professionals Can Provide Invaluable Support

Our patients find support networks in many places, including breast cancer survivor groups, family and friends, churches, and neighbors. While these networks help in many ways, talking to a mental health professional gives you space to express your feelings without holding back for fear of worrying loved ones. Many therapists and counselors specialize in working with breast cancer patients and have an in-depth understanding of the emotional challenges that arise during and after treatment. Even if you’ve never seen a mental health provider before, it’s absolutely worth trying if you’re feeling overwhelmed. 

Find Ways to Reconnect With Your Body

It can take some time to feel comfortable with your body again after breast reconstruction. Many patients build self-connection with calming physical activities like yoga or hiking in nature. Getting a professional massage can also help release built-up stress and muscle tension. After being poked and prodded during treatment, you deserve to reconnect to the things that make your body feel good.

Talk to Your Surgeon About Your Concerns

At The Breast Center Park Meadows Cosmetic Surgery, our board-certified plastic surgeons aren’t just here to perform breast reconstruction. We’re also here to make the process less daunting and stressful. Patients often have anxiety-causing concerns about what to expect during breast reconstruction and recovery, or how their breasts will look or feel after surgery. Our providers can answer any questions you have along the way and arm you with the information you need to feel as prepared as possible.

Schedule Your Breast Reconstruction Consultation

If you’re ready to start your breast reconstruction journey, call 303-706-1100 to book a consultation at our Lone Tree, Colorado practice. In addition to practicing the most advanced surgical techniques and delivering excellent cosmetic results, our board-certified plastic surgeons have a reputation for providing highly empathetic patient-focused care.