How Breast Cancer Treatment Affects Women’s Bodies?

How Can Breast Reduction Surgery Improve Health, Comfort, and Confidence

Breast reduction surgery is often thought of as a cosmetic procedure, but for many women, it is about much more than appearance. Large, heavy breasts can cause physical discomfort, affect daily activities, and impact confidence. Breast reduction can provide relief and improve overall well-being in ways that go beyond aesthetics.

Here’s how this procedure can help with health, mobility, and comfort, and what to expect if you’re considering it.

Relief from Pain and Discomfort

One of the biggest reasons women choose breast reduction is to ease the physical strain caused by large breasts. Common issues include:

• Chronic Back, Neck, and Shoulder Pain – The weight of heavy breasts can pull the shoulders forward, causing strain on the upper body.
• Skin Irritation – The skin underneath the breasts can become red, irritated, and even develop rashes due to friction and trapped moisture.
• Grooves from Bra Straps – Many women with large breasts experience deep indentations in their shoulders from bra straps struggling to support the weight.

By reducing breast size, women often experience significant relief, making everyday activities more comfortable.

Improved Mobility and Physical Activity

Large breasts can make exercise difficult, often leading to discomfort during activities like running, yoga, or even brisk walking. Many women find that:

• High-impact exercises become painful or impractical.
• Posture is affected, leading to strain on the back and shoulders.
• Breathlessness and chest tightness can occur due to excess weight in the chest area.

After breast reduction, women often find it easier to move freely, enjoy workouts without discomfort, and maintain an active lifestyle.

Better Clothing Fit and More Wardrobe Options

Finding clothes that fit well can be frustrating when breasts are disproportionately large compared to the rest of the body. Many women struggle with:

• Button-up shirts pulling at the chest area.
• Difficulty finding well-fitting bras that provide support without digging into the skin.
• Limited options for dresses and tops that feel comfortable and flattering.

Breast reduction allows for a wider range of clothing choices, helping women feel more confident and comfortable in their outfits.

Boost in Confidence and Mental Well-being

For some women, large breasts can cause self-consciousness, unwanted attention, or difficulty maintaining a posture that feels natural. This can lead to:

• Lower self-esteem and discomfort in social settings.
• Emotional distress due to feeling out of proportion or struggling with body image.
• Avoidance of certain activities due to embarrassment or discomfort.

By achieving a breast size that feels more in balance with the body, many women experience a boost in confidence and an improved sense of well-being.

Who Might Consider Breast Reduction?

Breast reduction is a personal choice, but it may be worth considering if you:

• Experience persistent pain or discomfort due to breast size.
• Struggle with mobility or physical activity limitations.
• Feel self-conscious or emotionally distressed about your breast size.
• Have trouble finding comfortable clothing or bras.

If these challenges sound familiar, speaking to a surgeon can help you understand whether this procedure is right for you.

Book a Consultation at The Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic

If you’re considering breast reduction and want to understand your options, Dr Radhika Lakshmanan and the team at The Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic are here to help. We offer personalised care to guide you through the decision-making process, ensuring you have the information you need to feel confident in your choice.

Book a consultation today to learn how breast reduction surgery can improve your comfort, mobility, and confidence. Your well-being matters, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.

How Breast Cancer Treatment Affects Women’s Bodies?

Going through breast cancer treatment is a journey that affects not only your health but also how you feel physically and emotionally. Each woman’s experience is different, but knowing what to expect and finding ways to manage side effects can make a big difference.

This guide walks through some of the changes you might face during treatment and offers practical ways to cope.

Fatigue

One of the most common side effects of breast cancer treatment is feeling extremely tired. This isn’t just regular tiredness, it’s a deep exhaustion that rest doesn’t always fix.

Why It Happens:

• Chemotherapy and radiation affect healthy cells as well as cancer cells, which can leave your body working harder to recover.
• Changes in hormone levels can contribute to feeling sluggish.
• Anxiety and disrupted sleep can also play a part.

Ways to Manage:

• Allow yourself to rest when needed, but also try light activities like short walks to boost energy.
• Maintain a balanced diet with enough protein, iron, and hydration to help with energy levels.
• Ask for help, whether it’s childcare, housework, or errands, letting others support you can ease the load.

Hair Loss

Losing hair is one of the changes people often associate with cancer treatment, and it can be an emotional experience. Not everyone loses their hair, but chemotherapy can cause thinning or complete hair loss on the scalp, eyebrows, and eyelashes.

Why It Happens:

• Chemotherapy targets fast-growing cells, which includes hair follicles.
• Not all treatments cause hair loss, so your doctor can let you know what to expect based on your specific treatment plan.

Ways to Manage:

• Some women choose to shave their heads before hair loss starts to feel more in control of the process.
• Headscarves, wigs, and hats can help if you feel self-conscious.
• Cold caps, which reduce blood flow to the scalp during chemotherapy, may help slow hair loss in some cases.
• Remember that hair usually starts growing back a few months after treatment ends, although texture and colour might change temporarily.

Hormonal Changes

Breast cancer treatments, especially those that affect oestrogen levels, can lead to sudden menopause or menopause-like symptoms. This can cause hot flushes, night sweats, mood swings, and changes in libido.

Why It Happens:

• Some treatments, such as hormone therapy, block oestrogen to slow cancer growth.
• Surgery to remove the ovaries, if recommended, triggers menopause immediately.

Ways to Manage:

• Dress in layers and keep a fan nearby to help with hot flushes.
• Reduce spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol, as they can make symptoms worse.
• Meditation, yoga, and breathing exercises can help with mood swings and anxiety.
• Speak to your doctor about non-hormonal treatments that may help with symptom relief.

Changes in the Body

It’s common for women to notice changes in their weight during treatment. Some find that chemotherapy and steroids cause weight gain, while others experience loss of appetite and struggle to maintain their usual weight.

Ways to Manage:

• If you’re gaining weight, focus on balanced meals rather than cutting calories, as your body needs nutrients to recover.
• If you’re losing weight, try eating smaller meals more frequently, and include protein-rich snacks.
• Gentle movement, like walking or stretching, can help with metabolism and muscle strength.

Emotional Well-being

Cancer treatment affects not only the body but also the mind. It’s normal to feel a mix of emotions, from anxiety and frustration to sadness or even guilt.

Ways to Cope:

• Talk to someone, a friend, family member, or a counsellor.
• Join a support group where you can connect with women going through similar experiences.
• Try journaling, art, or mindfulness exercises to process emotions.
• Be kind to yourself. It’s okay to feel low some days, and it’s okay to ask for help.

We’re Here to Support You

Breast cancer treatment is challenging, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Whether you have questions about side effects, need guidance on symptom management, or simply want to talk through your concerns, Dr Radhika Lakshmanan and the team at The Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic are here for you.

Book a consultation today to get personalised advice and support tailored to your needs. Your well-being matters, and we’re here to help you through every step of the journey.

Do All Breast Lumps Need Surgery? A Breast Surgeon’s Guide to Benign vs. Concerning Lumps

Finding a lump in your breast can be worrying, but not all lumps require surgery. Many are harmless and do not pose a threat to your health. Understanding the difference between benign (non-cancerous) and concerning lumps can help ease anxiety and guide you on the next steps. Let’s take a closer look at the different types of lumps and when surgery might be needed.

Not All Breast Lumps Are Dangerous

Breast lumps are quite common, and in many cases, they are not a sign of anything serious. While some may need monitoring, others can be left alone if they are not causing discomfort or health concerns. The important thing is to recognise changes in your breasts and seek advice if something feels different.

Common Types of Benign Breast Lumps

Some lumps do not require surgery because they are harmless and do not increase the risk of breast cancer. These include:

Cysts

• Cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can form within the breast tissue.
• They often feel smooth and round, and may move under the skin.
• They can fluctuate in size, especially with hormonal changes, and sometimes cause tenderness.
• If a cyst is causing discomfort, draining the fluid with a fine needle (aspiration) may help, but surgery is rarely needed.

Fibroadenomas

• These are solid, non-cancerous lumps made up of glandular and connective tissue.
• They often feel smooth, firm, and movable, like a small rubbery ball.
• Fibroadenomas are common in younger women and may shrink over time.
• Surgery is only considered if they grow significantly or cause discomfort.

Lipomas

• These are soft, fatty lumps that grow slowly under the skin.
• They are harmless and usually do not require any treatment unless they become painful or continue to grow.

Breast Abscesses

• Caused by infections, abscesses are pockets of pus that can form in the breast.
• They may be red, swollen, and painful.
• Treatment usually involves antibiotics or drainage rather than surgery.

When Should a Lump Be Evaluated Further?

While many lumps are benign, some may require further assessment. A breast surgeon may recommend additional tests if:

• The lump is hard, irregular in shape, or fixed to surrounding tissue.
• There is persistent pain that does not go away with your menstrual cycle.
• The skin over the lump appears dimpled, red, or puckered.
• There are changes in the nipple, such as inversion or unusual discharge.
• The lump continues to grow over time.

If any of these signs are present, imaging tests such as a mammogram, ultrasound, or biopsy may be suggested to determine whether the lump requires further action.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Surgery is generally only recommended when:

• The lump is suspected or confirmed to be cancerous.
• A benign lump is causing discomfort or continues to grow.
• There is uncertainty about the nature of the lump after imaging and biopsy.

If surgery is needed, it may involve removing only the lump (lumpectomy) or, in rare cases, additional tissue depending on the diagnosis. The approach is always based on what is most suitable for each individual.

Regular Check-ups Make a Difference

Even if a lump turns out to be harmless, keeping up with regular breast examinations and screenings is important. This helps track any changes over time and ensures early detection if any concerns arise.

If you notice a lump, do not panic —but do not ignore it either. Booking a consultation with a healthcare professional can provide reassurance and clarity on whether any next steps are needed.

Need Guidance on a Breast Lump? Book a Consultation Today

If you have found a lump in your breast and are unsure what to do next, Dr Radhika Lakshmanan and the team at The Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic are here to help. Whether it is for reassurance, further assessment, or discussing treatment options, we can guide you through the process in a way that is clear and supportive.

Book a consultation today and take the first step towards understanding your breast health. Looking after yourself is important, and we are here to support you every step of the way.

Everything About Breast Ultrasound Report: Results and Next Steps

Receiving your breast ultrasound report can feel a bit overwhelming, especially when you are not familiar with the language used. In this guide, we break down what you can expect from your report, explain some common terms, and offer advice on discussing your results with your healthcare provider.

What to Expect in Your Report

After your breast ultrasound, you will receive a report that summarises the findings from the scan. This document is written for your doctor, but understanding it can help you feel more informed about your health. Typically, your report will include:

• Images and Descriptions – A few pictures from the ultrasound scan, along with written descriptions of what was seen.
• Measurements – If any areas of interest are noted, their size may be listed.
• Observations – The report might mention if any lumps, cysts, or other changes were observed.

Even if the language seems technical at first, taking the time to understand the key points can give you a clearer picture of your breast health.

Common Terms Demystified

Here are a few terms you might come across in your ultrasound report:

• Lesion – A general term for any abnormality. It does not necessarily mean cancer.
• Cyst – A fluid-filled sac that is usually harmless.
• Solid mass – An area of tissue that is not filled with fluid; further tests may be needed to understand its nature.
• Fibroadenoma – A benign (non-cancerous) lump that is common in younger women.
• Echogenicity – This refers to how tissues appear on the ultrasound image. Different types of tissues will reflect sound waves in different ways, which can help in identifying the nature of a lump.

Understanding these terms can help you follow the conversation when you discuss your results with your doctor.

What Your Report Might Tell You

Your ultrasound report will provide information on what was seen during your scan. Here are some potential findings:

• No Abnormal Findings – If your report states that no abnormalities were found, it generally means that the scan did not reveal any areas of concern.
• Benign Findings – If something was noted, it might be described as benign. For example, simple cysts or fibroadenomas are generally not cause for alarm.
• Areas Needing Further Evaluation – Occasionally, a report may recommend additional imaging or tests if something appears unclear. This might be described as a need for further assessment rather than an immediate cause for worry.

Remember, many findings in an ultrasound report are benign and do not indicate serious health issues.

Discussing Your Results with Your Healthcare Provider

It is important to talk over your report with your healthcare provider. They can explain the findings in a way that is relevant to your personal health history. When discussing your results, consider asking questions like:

• “What does this finding mean for my overall health?”
• “Are there any further tests or follow-up appointments needed?”
• “How should I monitor this area over time?”

Clear communication with your doctor can help you understand your situation and decide on any next steps that might be necessary.

Taking the Next Steps

After reviewing your ultrasound report, the next steps may include routine monitoring or additional tests if required. Keeping a record of any changes you notice can be very useful during follow-up appointments. It is also helpful to note any symptoms or concerns that arise after your scan.

Staying proactive about your breast health is key. Regular screenings and open discussions with your healthcare provider can help maintain peace of mind and ensure that any changes are addressed promptly.

Get in Touch with Us

If you have questions about your breast ultrasound report or would like to discuss your results in more detail, Dr Radhika Lakshmanan and the team at The Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic are here to help. We understand that these conversations can be daunting, and we are here to provide support and guidance tailored to your needs.

Book a consultation today to review your report and discuss your next steps. Taking charge of your health is important, and we are ready to assist you on your journey towards a clearer understanding of your breast health.

If I Notice Skin Lumps, Should I Worry Even If My Mammogram Is Clear?

It can be quite unsettling to discover lumps on your skin, even when your recent mammogram shows no concerns. In this article, we explore what skin lumps might mean, why they sometimes occur despite clear mammogram results, and when it may be wise to seek further advice.

What Could These Lumps Be?

Skin lumps can arise from a range of causes, many of which are not linked to breast cancer. For example, you might notice:

• Epidermal Cysts – These are small, benign lumps that form under the skin and are usually harmless.
• Lipomas – Soft, fatty deposits that are typically benign and move easily under the skin.
• Fibroadenomas – Although these are usually found within the breast tissue itself, they can sometimes present as lumps near the skin.
• Inflammatory or Infectious Causes – Occasionally, lumps can result from an infection or an inflammatory response.

It is important to remember that many skin lumps are benign and may not require any treatment. However, understanding their nature is key to alleviating unnecessary worry.

What Does a Clear Mammogram Tell You?

Mammograms are designed to detect changes within the breast tissue, such as microcalcifications or internal masses, which are sometimes early signs of cancer. However, they do have limitations. Mammograms are not as effective at showing changes that occur in the skin or immediately beneath it. This means that even if your mammogram is clear, it might not reveal every abnormality, particularly those that are superficial or in the skin layer.

A clear mammogram is reassuring in that it generally indicates that there are no significant changes within the deeper breast tissue. Still, it does not always rule out all issues, particularly those involving the skin. This is why it is important to pay attention to any new or unusual lumps you might find.

When Should You Seek Further Advice?

Even though many skin lumps are harmless, there are instances when additional evaluation is a sensible precaution:

• Persistent or Changing Lumps – If a lump does not go away over time or begins to change in size, shape, or colour, it is a good idea to have it checked.
• Associated Symptoms – Should you experience any accompanying symptoms such as pain, redness, or warmth around the lump, or if it starts to interfere with your daily activities, further investigation is warranted.
• Family History or Risk Factors – If you have a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors, discussing any changes with your healthcare provider is especially important.

Remember, seeking advice is not a sign of alarm but rather a proactive step towards ensuring your continued health and peace of mind.

Taking Charge of Your Health

Staying in tune with your body is essential. Regular self-examinations can help you notice any changes early on. Keeping a record of your findings, including when you first noticed a lump and any changes over time, can be very useful information for your healthcare provider.

Additionally, maintaining regular appointments and discussions with your doctor allows you to address any concerns as they arise. This ongoing communication helps create a clear picture of your health and ensures that any necessary follow-up is timely.

Get in Touch for Guidance

If you are unsure about a skin lump or have noticed changes that worry you, please do not hesitate to reach out. Dr Radhika Lakshmanan and the team at The Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic are here to help. We understand that every situation is unique and are committed to providing the care and support you need.

Book a consultation today to discuss your concerns and receive personalised advice. Taking this step can bring you peace of mind and help ensure that you remain in control of your health. Your well-being is important, and we are here to support you every step of the way.

Having Breast Pains, When to Seek Breast Screening?

Breast pain (known as mastalgia) can be unsettling, even though it is common for many individuals. While discomfort does not always indicate a serious problem, understanding the reasons behind breast pain and knowing when to seek screening are important steps in looking after your health. Below is an overview of the types of breast pain, the reasons they occur, and how regular screening can offer both early detection and peace of mind.

Describe Your Breast Pain

Breast pain can vary from mild tenderness to a sharper, more intense feeling. It might affect one breast or both, and can sometimes spread to the underarm area. Many people experience breast pain at some point, and it is often linked to hormonal changes or benign (non-cancerous) conditions. However, there are instances when breast pain may require further investigation.

Cyclical vs. Non-Cyclical Breast Pain

Cyclical Breast Pain

• Linked to Hormones – This type of pain is typically related to hormonal fluctuations in the menstrual cycle.
• Timing – It often starts just before a period and eases once menstruation begins.
• Pattern – The intensity can vary from month to month, but it usually follows a predictable cycle.

Non-Cyclical Breast Pain

• Unrelated to Menstrual Cycle – Pain may not have a clear pattern and can occur at any time.
• Possible Causes – Could stem from factors like muscular strain, infections, inflammation, or certain benign growths.
• Further Assessment – If pain persists or worsens, it may be advisable to have a healthcare professional evaluate the cause.

Overlapping Signs to Be Aware Of

While many causes of breast pain are not serious, it is important to stay aware of any additional symptoms that might suggest further attention:

• New Lumps or Thickening – If you feel a lump or detect an area of increased density, it is prudent to consult a healthcare provider.
• Changes in the Skin – Dimpling, redness, or alterations in texture may require further examination.
• Nipple Discharge – Any unexplained discharge, particularly if it is bloody, should be discussed with a doctor.
• Persistent or Worsening Pain – If your discomfort lasts for an extended period or becomes more intense, it may be beneficial to seek advice.

The Importance of Regular Screening

Regular screening, such as mammograms or breast ultrasounds, can help identify potential concerns at an early stage, sometimes before symptoms are noticeable. Early detection can make a meaningful difference in the management of any issues. Screening also provides reassurance that, even if pain is present, there are no underlying serious problems that remain undetected.

If you have significant risk factors—such as a family history of breast cancer or previous breast conditions—your doctor might recommend starting screening at an earlier age or scheduling examinations more frequently.

Book a Consultation at The Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic

Breast pain should not be a cause of panic, but it is always wise to stay aware of changes in your body. If you are experiencing ongoing discomfort or wish to discuss screening options, Dr Radhika Lakshmanan and the team at The Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic can provide guidance tailored to your needs.

Book an appointment today to find out more about the steps you can take to maintain your breast health and gain peace of mind. Your well-being is important, and we are here to support you on your path towards feeling comfortable and confident.