BRA day asks women to talk about breast reconstruction

It’s National “BRA” day — a day to talk about breast reconstruction awareness.

“Early detection saved my life,” said Ladonna Apodoca.

Apodoca is two-time breast cancer survivor, but the second time, just over three years ago, she took no chances.

“The doctors recommended I get double mastectomy,” Apodoca said.

You may remember actress Angelina Jolie promoting the healthful reasons to get a double mastectomy, especially when you have the genetic likelihood of developing breast cancer. But some women are scared of undergoing such a dramatic, in some cases, traumatic procedure. It saves lives, but can kill a woman’s confidence, which is why breast reconstruction is becoming apart of the treatment plan.

“It could be performed either at the time of the mastectomy or it could be performed later during the process, depending on what time of treatments the patient requires,” said plastic surgeon Dr. Umberto Palladino.

In most states, if a patient’s mastectomy is covered by the insurance, the insurance will also cover the reconstruction. In Apodoca’s case, it wasn’t just about beating cancer, but healing from the disease.

“It helps with making you feel more comfortable with yourself, including how you appear in clothes,” Apodoca said.

“A patient feels more whole,” said plastic surgeon Dr. Frank Agullo. “They feel reconstructed physically, but also mentally.”

If you’re fighting breast cancer, talk to your doctor about your options.