Aesthetic Flat Closure: Redefining Beauty After Mastectomy
A Survivor's Guide to Post-Mastectomy Choices
Aesthetic Flat Closure (AFC) is a surgical option for breast cancer patients who choose to remain flat after mastectomy. This procedure focuses on creating a smooth, flat chest wall contour, prioritizing both aesthetics and comfort. This comprehensive guide, featuring insights from a survivor and our medical expert, we explore how AFC is changing lives and reshaping the landscape of breast cancer recovery.
Insights From Kimberly Bowles
Survivor and Advocate for Aesthetic Flat Closure
“I started Not Putting on a Shirt when I was denied a flat closure at Cleveland Clinic by a surgeon who thought I would change my mind about implants. Our mission is to advocate for optimal aesthetic flat closure as the standard of care for women going flat after mastectomy.”
1. Desire for Change
Post-Mastectomy Options Unveiled
Explore the mission behind Not Putting on a Shirt and the importance of comprehensive information about breast cancer-related choices, including going flat after mastectomy.
2. Expert Tips Revealed
Shared Decision Making for Aesthetic Flat Closure
Learn crucial strategies for ensuring your surgeon is aligned with your decision to go flat, including the importance of viewing previous work and understanding surgical outcomes.
3. Understanding Explant Decisions
Beyond Breast Implants
Discover the various reasons why some women choose to remove their breast implants, from physical discomfort to dissatisfaction with appearance.
4. Navigating Surgeon Perspectives
Profit vs. Patient Care
Gain insights into the complexities of the healthcare system and how it can impact patient options and satisfaction with breast reconstruction choices.
5. Global Movement: Flat Advocates Unite
Learn about the international network of flat advocates working to ensure that going flat is recognized as a valid and beautiful choice worldwide.
6. Aesthetic Flat Closure Awareness
Embracing a Valid Choice
Understand the importance of visibility and education in promoting aesthetic flat closure as a legitimate option for breast cancer survivors.
7. Creating Change
AFC Advocacy in Action
Explore the various initiatives, including legislation and surgeon education, aimed at improving access to and awareness of aesthetic flat closure.
8. Building a Flat-Friendly Directory
Connecting Patients with Surgeons
Learn about efforts to create resources that help patients find surgeons experienced in performing aesthetic flat closures.
9. Progress in AFC
Celebrating Milestones
Discover the significant advancements made in recognizing and promoting aesthetic flat closure within the medical community and beyond.
10. Empowering the Next Generation
Sharing the Flat Experience
Understand the impact of living openly flat on younger generations and how it contributes to changing societal perceptions of post-mastectomy bodies.
featured Survivor
Meet Christine Handy, stage 2 survivor
Christine Handy is a breast cancer survivor, best-selling author, and passionate flat advocate. After experiencing multiple mastectomies and breast implant illness, Christine chose to embrace aesthetic flat closure. As a model and ambassador for Learn Look Locate, she boldly walks runways and participates in photo shoots, proudly showcasing her flat chest to challenge societal norms and empower fellow survivors. Christine’s advocacy work, combined with her upcoming film “Hello Beautiful,” aims to educate women about post-mastectomy options, including aesthetic flat closure. Through her personal journey and public platform, Christine is driving awareness and supporting women in making informed choices about their bodies after breast cancer.
Expert Medical Perspective: Dr. Yara Robertson
Breast Surgical Oncologist and Medical Advisor for LLL
“When patients come in for mastectomies, I always ask, ‘Are you interested in reconstruction?’ I think that should always be presented to a patient. It’s up to us to make sure you get that information.”
1. Informed Choices
Expert Advice on Post-Mastectomy Options
Understand the importance of being presented with all reconstruction options, including going flat, and the role of surgeons in facilitating informed decisions.
2. Surgical Techniques Unveiled
The Art of Aesthetic Flat Closure
Gain insights into the meticulous process of creating a smooth, flat chest contour and why it’s a crucial part of the mastectomy procedure.
3. Demystifying Flat Closure
Essential Facts for Patients
Learn what aesthetic flat closure entails from a surgical perspective and why clear communication with your surgeon is crucial for achieving desired results.
About the Expert
Meet Yara V. Robertson, MD, FACS
Dr. Yara Robertson is a distinguished breast surgical oncologist and a valued member of the Learn Look Locate Medical Advisors. With her extensive experience and commitment to patient-centered care, Dr. Robertson is dedicated to ensuring breast cancer patients receive comprehensive information about all their post-mastectomy options, including aesthetic flat closure.
At Learn Look Locate, we are committed to providing comprehensive information about aesthetic flat closure, empowering breast cancer survivors to make informed decisions about their bodies post-mastectomy. Through these insightful videos, we aim to bridge the gap between patient experiences and medical expertise, fostering a deeper understanding of AFC as a valid and empowering choice.
We invite you to explore these valuable insights and join us in our mission to support breast cancer survivors in their journey towards healing, self-acceptance, and renewed confidence.