Mexico Ledger in Mexico, Missouri

Reconstructed Breast Still Carries Stigma

CHICAGO AP Women who have had mastectomies should not face stigma when seeking breast reconstruction. Francine E. Timothy of the American Cancer Society says the desire for a new breast is not vanity, but a valid option acknowledged by surgeons and needed by many women at the society conference. Many women fear judgment and avoid asking about reconstruction, while thousands already wear cloth or plastic prostheses. Timothy notes impact varies by age and marital status, with older women possibly finding reconstruction especially significant as they cope with aging.