October is breast cancer awareness month, and our co-founders developed Arbrea Labs with the passion of helping breast cancer patients who have gone through a mastectomy. It remains the driver of our company’s motto: to help others.
Early detection is best: whether it’s self-exam, a visit to the doctor’s office, ultrasound or mammogram at a breast centre. More research and sophisticated tests are being developed around the world, yet there are still a few important aspects that are not commonly known. We compile a few Q&As, in the hope to offer a better understanding. Please note that this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, nor do we have a financial stake with the companies mentioned in this blog.
Q: Does self-exam really help prevent breast cancer?
A: Yes. We know our body best and can detect any regularities. Learn how to do it here.
Q: Can breast density affect the detection of breast cancer?
A: According to the Mayo Clinic, dense breasts increases the chance that breast cancer goes undetected by a mammogram since dense breast tissue can mask potential cancer. Annual screening is encouraged. During an ultrasound, your radiologist is able to explain your level of breast density.
Q: Is there anything more effective than mammograms?
A: Research and tech innovations in the breast cancer field are constantly growing. There is a new type of ultrasound called SonoCiné that looks at the whole breast. It is meant to detect potential cancer more effectively than a standard mammogram (especially in dense breasts) and is safe for implants. 
Q: What’s the difference between mastectomy and lumpectomy?
A: Mastectomy is the removal of the entire breast, whereas lumpectomy is the excision of cancer from the breast. This BRA page explains it further.
Q: If I had a mastectomy, can breast reconstruction help me?
A: The short answer is yes, but it also depends on whether you are seeking breast reconstruction with your own breast tissue or with implants.
Q: If I want to get implants, how can I make sure that I like what I’m getting?
A: This is where Arbrea can help. Seeing is believing, and our surgeon app is effective in showing you, using your own body as a “model”, how different types of implants can look. It’s the latest in-app technology that integrates Augmented Reality, 3D and Artificial Intelligence work seamlessly together.
Q: Aren’t breast implants meant for cosmetic purposes only and people might think I’m vain?
A: Breast cancer is hardcore. Mastectomy is traumatizing to the patient, and its psychological impact is extremely difficult on the patient. Implants may be cosmetic, but it can also be such a positive booster for the morale of the breast cancer survivor.
Breast Reconstruction Awareness Day (BRA): 21 October 2020
Breast Reconstruction Awareness Day was founded in Canada in 2011 to underline the low numbers of breast reconstruction rates. Breast reconstruction greatly helps enhance women’s self-image and confidence after undergoing mastectomy. Reconstruction can be done immediately after breast surgery or as a separate procedure at a later time. Talk to your breast surgeon about reconstruction, the different types of reconstruction and recovery time. In light of BRA Day, we are offering a discount on our surgeon app for breast surgery. Contact us for more info.
