Doctor suggests breast reconstruction to cancer fighters

Dr Miguel Johnson, a consultant plastic and reconstructive surgeon at Cornwall Regional Hospital, is encouraging breast cancer patients to consider breast reconstruction as part of their treatment.

This initiative is part of a broader effort to support breast cancer patients in Jamaica, emphasising the impact of psychosocial recovery alongside medical treatment. Johnson stressed the significance of increasing awareness around the availability of breast reconstruction surgery for patients who are undergoing treatment for breast cancer.

"I'm particularly involved in trying to restore some amount of symmetry and restoring the breasts in these patients who, as you'd imagine, go through serious psychological and psychosocial issues, including withdrawing from sexual intercourse," Johnson stated. "Sometimes they even have relationship problems, as you'd imagine, because of that lack of feminine features, as well as the fact that they feel less of a person."

Johnson highlighted that breast reconstruction not only addresses physical changes but also plays a crucial role in enhancing the emotional well-being of patients.

"My job is really to try and restore that psychosocial aspect of them," he explained. One of the key messages Johnson aims to communicate is that these reconstructive surgeries are available locally, both in public and private healthcare systems.

"In terms of the public system, we offer it completely free to candidates who qualify for it," he noted. For those opting for private services, costs can vary depending on the type of reconstructive surgery needed, which may involve implants or the use of the patient's own tissue. Despite the availability of these services, trends indicate that the likelihood of breast reconstruction following mastectomy remains low. However, Johnson pointed out that the stage of breast cancer can significantly influence the timing and type of reconstructive surgery.

"Breast reconstruction is ideally for patients who are early in their breast cancer management," he said, dispelling myths surrounding the procedure. "Some persons might have the myth that breast reconstruction may lead to an increased risk of having further cancer. That is false." Johnson also noted that most health insurance policies in Jamaica cover breast reconstruction, making the procedure more accessible.

Johnson will be presenting at the Janette Kaloo Breast Cancer Foundation's annual Breast Cancer Awareness Symposium on Saturday, October 19, at Beyond Sunset Resort & Villas in Treasure Beach, St Elizabeth. The foundation provides vital support to rural women battling breast cancer, from testing and medical supplies, to essential food and transportation services. The symposium will feature discussions on the emotional and psychological impacts of breast cancer, with a psychiatrist addressing the mental health challenges faced by many patients. Johnson expressed hope that increased awareness will lead to more women considering breast reconstruction as part of their treatment journey.

"Given that it is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it is timely to increase awareness on breast health overall and that breast reconstruction is offered locally," he stated.