A recent ABC News report shares the story of Kim Sport, a woman who is sharing her breast cancer and breast reconstruction experiences with other women.

She had her mastectomy and breast reconstruction procedures done at the same time and says she couldn’t be happier with her results.

Commenting on her reconstruction surgery experience, Sport stated: “I felt it was very, very important to share that experience with other women because I didn’t want them just to have to look at a photo.”

A new survey conducted by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons finds that most women agree with Sport.

The survey found that 89% of women would rather see what reconstruction results could look like before making any decisions for their own treatment.

Many women, however, don’t find out about their reconstruction options until it’s too late. Some women never see what reconstruction could do for their situation at all.  70% of women are not fully informed about their breast reconstruction options.

Dr. Frank DellaCroce, a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons told ABC News: “I see a great number of patients who come in and say ‘I’d wish I had known beforehand. I wish I could turn the clock back.’ But the problem is you can’t turn the clock back.”

Raising Awareness for Breast Reconstruction

In order to combat the lack of awareness for reconstruction options the ASPS has launched National Breast Reconstruction Awareness (BRA) Day. This is the first ever event of its kind and is taking place in October.

In order for women to see the breast reconstruction results and hear personal experiences for themselves, a “show and tell” event has been organized as part of the event.

More information about National BRA Day can be found on the event’s website.

Talking with a doctor about treatment options is the best way to find out which options suit your situation. Contact Dr. Beth Collins, or stop by her Guilford, CT location to discuss your breast reconstruction options.