Breast Cancer Awareness Month serves as a reminder of my core purpose as a plastic surgeon. From a young age, I was driven to impact people's lives through medicine. As my career progressed, I gravitated towards surgery to directly solve complex problems that affect my patients. Eventually, I found my calling in Plastic Surgery, dedicating myself to helping each patient become the best version of themselves.
Suffering seems an inherent part of our human experience. My patients all face suffering before we meet. For my breast cancer patients, the burden is great. They often hear about the difficulties they must endure: "You must endure treatments that will make you feel sick, unattractive, and unlike yourself." And, "You must undergo surgery that will alter your body in ways you'd never choose." I'm part of a team that cures disease and extends life. My role is to turn these challenges into opportunities, guiding patients through the final stages of their cancer journey and shifting the focus from mere survival to true flourishing.
Remember to see your primary provider and to set up all of your appropriate health screenings. For women with “normal” risk, breast cancer screening should start around age 40 and be performed every 1-2 years through the mid-70s. You may require earlier or more frequent screenings if you are of higher risk due to family history or some unusual exposures. You will have more options for treatment and reconstruction if your cancer is found early through screening. Early detection almost always means longer survival.
It's also important to remember that cancer isn't the only breast problem we treat. Many people suffer with congenital or acquired conditions that leave them feeling uncomfortable in their own skin. Plastic surgeons like me have the skills and experience to treat these conditions and help patients flourish.
Nevertheless, it’s not enough to just survive cancer. It's not enough to just exist in a body that makes you feel less than your best. My team and I are here to help you find your path back to happiness and self-confidence. If you're suffering with a breast problem, reach out. Make sure your plastic surgeon is qualified, experienced, and committed to patient-centered care. You deserve to feel like your best self. Let's make that happen together. Survival is a great first step, but it's not enough. We want you to thrive.
Dr. Paul A. Berry, DHR Health Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon
1100 E. Dove Avenue Suite 400 McAllen, TX 78504
To schedule an appointment, call (956) 362-8160
To learn more about plastic and reconstructive services at DHR Health, visit https://dhrhealth.com/services/plastic-reconstructive-surgery/
