Rewritten Me

Luan Lawrenson-Woods

Rewritten Me is Australia’s podcast dedicated to reconstruction after mastectomy, created and hosted by award-winning patient advocate Luan Lawrenson-Woods.

Made in Australia and listened to by people around the world, Rewritten Me supports people making decisions about breast reconstruction, understanding their options, and finding practical support before and after surgery.

Through conversations with breast and reconstructive surgeons, healthcare professionals, allied health experts and people with lived experience, the podcast explores reconstruction options, recovery, scars, lymphoedema, exercise, emotional wellbeing, body image, cost, access, consent and informed decision-making.

Rewritten Me is here to help you ask better questions, understand your options, feel more confident having a say in your care, and decide how you rewrite your story.

Luan Lawrenson-Woods

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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20 episodes
Avg 48 min
English

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September 14 · 1 hr 4 min
Body Image After Mastectomy and Breast Reconstruction
Mastectomy and breast reconstruction can change more than how your body looks. And it can be complex. How can you prepare for changes to sensation, function, identity and the way you feel in your body? Luan is joined by body-image researcher Dr Helena Lewis-Smith to explore the emotional adjustment that can happen before and after surgery, and why gratitude for treatment can exist alongside grief for a changed body. They talk about: preparing for changes to appearance, sensation and function the first time you see your chest after surgery rebuilding trust and appreciation for your body touch, sex and intimacy after breast surgery the effects of media and social media on body image free ways to support a kinder relationship with your body Helena is an Associate Professor of Psychology at the Centre for Appearance Research and developed the Accepting Your Body After Cancer programme. Where you can find Luan: Instagram Website LinkedIn If you’ve found any of the content upsetting, please reach out and get help. Breast Cancer Network Australia has a free confidential helpline – 1800 500 258. Beyond Blue has a range of free resources online, or you can call them 24/7 on 1300 224 636. The information in this podcast does not constitute medical advice. For personalised medical advice you should seek a consult with a FRACS qualified surgeon or equally qualified surgeon in your country. Please read more in our full disclaimer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S3 · E9
August 26 · 43 min
Breast Reconstruction: Medicare, Medical Billing and the Public System
If you’re having breast surgery or reconstruction through Australia’s public health system, what are you entitled to as a public patient, and what should you know before agreeing to use your private health insurance? Luan is joined by Dr Margaret Faux, one of Australia’s leading experts on Medicare and medical billing law, to unpack how Medicare, medical billing and public hospital care work around breast surgery and reconstruction. They talk about: accessing public care for breast cancer and risk reducing surgeries referrals and waiting lists what public patients should and shouldn’t be charged for private health insurance in public hospitals Medicare rebates for support after surgery Margaret is the author of How to Avoid the Medical Bill Ripoff. Where you can find Luan: Instagram Website LinkedIn If you’ve found any of the content upsetting, please reach out and get help. Breast Cancer Network Australia has a free confidential helpline – 1800 500 258. Beyond Blue has a range of free resources online, or you can call them 24/7 on 1300 224 636. The information in this podcast does not constitute medical advice. For personalised medical advice you should seek a consult with a FRACS qualified surgeon or equally qualified surgeon in your country. Please read more in our full disclaimer. CREDITS: Host & producer: Luan Lawrenson-Woods is an award-winning women’s health advocate, speaker and host of the Regarding Me and Rewritten Me podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S3 · E8
July 29 · 46 min
Scar Care After Breast Reconstruction
Scars after breast surgery can bring up fear and a lot of questions. What should they feel like? When can we touch them? And how do you know what’s normal? Luan speaks with Shannon Chandler, a remedial massage therapist with more than 18 years specialising in post-operative recovery, about scar care, fascia, swelling, movement, lymphatic drainage and how to nurture your scars during healing. This conversation helps you understand what may be happening beneath the visible scar, why recovery can feel tight or uncomfortable, and how touch may help support comfort and movement around scars, even years later. We talk about: what tightness, swelling and unfamiliar sensations may mean why movement, breath and confidence help recovery so much questions to ask your surgeon about post-operative care how to think about recovery support without feeling pressured to spend a fortune Care note: This episode includes discussion of surgery, surgical procedures, scars, healing and how the body can feel after breast surgery. Please listen when it feels right for you. Please discuss your individualised scar care, lymphatic drainage, movement, hands-on treatment or any changes to your recovery routine with your surgeon or treating team. Read more about this episode, meet the guest and find links to resources go to the dedicated Rewritten Me podcast blog page. Where you can find Luan: Instagram Website LinkedIn If you’ve found any of the content upsetting, please reach out and get help. Breast Cancer Network Australia has a free confidential helpline – 1800 500 258. Beyond Blue has a range of free resources online, or you can call them 24/7 on 1300 224 636. The information in this podcast does not constitute medical advice. For personalised medical advice you should seek a consult with a FRACS qualified surgeon or equally qualified surgeon in your country. Please read more in our full disclaimer. CREDITS: Host & producer: Luan Lawrenson-Woods is an award-winning women’s health advocate, speaker and host of the Regarding Me and Rewritten Me podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S3 · E7
July 22 · 48 min
Rewritten Rewind: Foods That Can Help You Heal After Surgery
What can you eat to help support healing after breast reconstruction surgery? Originally recorded in 2023, this episode returns as a Rewritten Rewind as part of the Before and After Breast Reconstruction mini-series. Luan talks with nutritionist Associate Professor Teresa Mitchell-Paterson about food choices that may help support recovery from mastectomy and breast reconstruction surgery. In this episode we talk about: Foods that may support wound healing Protein and nutrition before and after surgery Hydration after an operation Foods that may help with constipation Whether you can drink coffee What about chocolate? How to ease back into eating after surgery Please discuss any dietary changes, supplements or herbs with your treating team, particularly if you’re having cancer treatment or taking medication. Read more about this episode, meet the guest and find links to all the resources mentioned on the dedicated Rewritten Me podcast blog page. Where you can find Luan: Instagram Website LinkedIn If you’ve found any of the content upsetting, please reach out and get help. Breast Cancer Network Australia has a free confidential helpline – 1800 500 258. Beyond Blue has a range of free resources online, or you can call them 24/7 on 1300 224 636. The information in this podcast does not constitute medical advice. For personalised medical advice you should seek a consult with a FRACS qualified surgeon or equally qualified surgeon in your country. Please read more in our full disclaimer. CREDITS: Host & producer: Luan Lawrenson-Woods is an award-winning women’s health advocate, speaker and host of the Regarding Me and Rewritten Me podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S3 · E6
July 15 · 48 min
Exercise Before & After Mastectomy & Breast Reconstruction
What movement can you do to prepare for breast cancer surgery, and what may help once you leave hospital? Luan speaks with Anna-Louise Bradley, senior exercise physiologist, about exercise before and after mastectomy and breast reconstruction. In this episode we talk about: •what an exercise physiologist does •exercise physiology vs physiotherapy •prehab when surgery is close •early movement in hospital •the grey area before exercise clearance •adapting movement for different surgeries •cancer-related fatigue •rebuilding strength, fitness and confidence •Medicare rebates and subsidised programs* •finding an oncology exercise physiologist *Balanced Bodies Lifestyle Clinic is one of the partners delivering the Prostate and Breast Cancer Foundation subsidised program mentioned in this episode. Care note: This episode includes discussion of mastectomy, breast reconstruction and major surgery. Read more about this episode, meet the guest and find links to all the resources mentioned on the dedicated Rewritten Me podcast blog page. Where you can find Luan: Instagram Website LinkedIn If you’ve found any of the content upsetting, please reach out and get help. Breast Cancer Network Australia has a free confidential helpline – 1800 500 258. Beyond Blue has a range of free resources online, or you can call them 24/7 on 1300 224 636. The information in this podcast does not constitute medical advice. For personalised medical advice you should seek a consult with a FRACS qualified surgeon or equally qualified surgeon in your country. Please read more in our full disclaimer. CREDITS: Host & producer: Luan Lawrenson-Woods is an award-winning women’s health advocate, speaker and host of the Regarding Me and Rewritten Me podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S13 · E5
July 8 · 38 min
Can’t Have DIEP? PAP Flap Breast Reconstruction Explained
DIEP flap breast reconstruction is often the own-tissue option people hear most about. But what happens when it isn’t suitable for you? Associate Professor Bish Soliman, who specialises in reconstructive plastic surgery, explains PAP flap reconstruction and where it may fit among the options available after mastectomy. In this episode, we talk about: what PAP flap reconstruction is how it differs from DIEP when PAP may be considered single, bilateral and stacked PAP flaps surgery, hospital monitoring and recovery risks, benefits and changes to the thigh donor site compression, scar care and returning to movement preparing for surgery and support at home Care note: This episode includes discussion of mastectomy, major surgery, surgical risks and complications. Read more about this episode, meet the guest and find a link to my other interview with A/Prof Bish on the dedicated Rewritten Me podcast blog page. Where you can find Luan: Instagram Website LinkedIn If you’ve found any of the content upsetting, please reach out and get help. Breast Cancer Network Australia has a free confidential helpline – 1800 500 258. Beyond Blue has a range of free resources online, or you can call them 24/7 on 1300 224 636. The information in this podcast does not constitute medical advice. For personalised medical advice you should seek a consult with a FRACS qualified surgeon or equally qualified surgeon in your country. Please read more in our full disclaimer. CREDITS: Host & producer: Luan Lawrenson-Woods is an award-winning women’s health advocate, speaker and host of the Regarding Me and Rewritten Me podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S3 · E4
July 1 · 40 min
How Do You Prepare for Breast Reconstruction Without a Surgery Date? | Elle Part 2
Elle is waiting for a date for her risk-reducing mastectomy and PAP flap reconstruction through the public health system. Without knowing when surgery will happen, preparing means keeping work, family support, her home and recovery plans on standby. In Part 2 of her story, Elle shares the practical and emotional realities of getting ready for major breast reconstruction while the timing remains uncertain. We talk about; waiting for a surgery date in the public system the hidden costs of waiting on standby preparing work, home and family support PAP flap recovery restrictions food, clothing, drains and the hospital bag lymphoedema management around surgery the practical questions people may not think to ask movement, scarring and returning to the activities she loves feeling confident in a decision while still fearing what could go wrong Listen to Part 1 first to hear why Elle chose a risk-reducing mastectomy and PAP flap reconstruction. Care note: This episode includes discussion of mastectomy and major surgery. And a few swear words, so you may want to listen with headphones if little ears are nearby. Read more about this episode, meet the guest and find the resources mentioned on the dedicated Rewritten Me podcast blog page. Where you can find Luan: Instagram Website LinkedIn If you’ve found any of the content upsetting, please reach out and get help. Breast Cancer Network Australia has a free confidential helpline – 1800 500 258. Beyond Blue has a range of free resources online, or you can call them 24/7 on 1300 224 636. The information in this podcast does not constitute medical advice. For personalised medical advice you should seek a consult with a FRACS qualified surgeon or equally qualified surgeon in your country. Please read more in our full disclaimer. CREDITS: Host & producer: Luan Lawrenson-Woods is an award-winning women’s health advocate, speaker and host of the Regarding Me and Rewritten Me podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S3 · E3
June 24 · 51 min
Before Breast Reconstruction: How Elle Decided on a PAP Flap | Part 1
After a breast cancer diagnosis in 2020, followed by a single mastectomy and DIEP flap reconstruction, Elle thought her next surgery would be a revision. Then updated genetic testing revealed a CHEK2 pathogenic variant and changed the decision in front of her. In Part 1, Elle shares how she decided to have a risk-reducing mastectomy on her remaining breast, and why choosing what type of reconstruction was right for her felt so difficult. We talk about: updated genetic testing after breast cancer deciding on risk-reducing mastectomy reconstruction options after DIEP staying flat, implants and further own-tissue reconstruction why movement and gymnastics influenced Elle’s choice questioning whether choosing another major reconstruction was selfish how counselling helped Elle feel at peace with her decision why PAP flap reconstruction became the option for her In Part 2, Elle shares how she is preparing for PAP flap reconstruction, including the uncertainty of waiting, time away from work, recovery planning and the support she’ll need at home. Follow or subscribe to Rewritten Me so you don’t miss Part 2. Care note: This episode includes discussion of breast cancer, mastectomy, genetic risk and major surgery. And a few swear words, so you may want to listen with headphones if little ears are nearby. Read more about this episode, meet the guest and find the resources mentioned on the dedicated Rewritten Me podcast blog page. Where you can find Luan: Instagram Website LinkedIn If you’ve found any of the content upsetting, please reach out and get help. Breast Cancer Network Australia has a free confidential helpline – 1800 500 258. Beyond Blue has a range of free resources online, or you can call them 24/7 on 1300 224 636. The information in this podcast does not constitute medical advice. For personalised medical advice you should seek a consult with a FRACS qualified surgeon or equally qualified surgeon in your country. Please read more in our full disclaimer. CREDITS: Host & producer: Luan Lawrenson-Woods is an award-winning women’s health advocate, speaker and host of the Regarding Me and Rewritten Me podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S3 · E2
June 16 · 46 min
Conquering Breast Cancer: Why We Share Our Stories
Why do we share our most personal experiences, and what do we hope those stories give somebody else? Four women featured in Conquering Breast Cancer join Luan to talk about why they chose to share theirs. Rewritten Me was always going to come back. The release of this Australian documentary felt like the right time. Luan was honoured to take part after women featured in the film shared how Rewritten Me had helped them make decisions about breast reconstruction. The film brings together research, healthcare expertise and lived experience, much like Rewritten Me. Luan is joined by Dyna Eldaief, Sandra Sturgess, Iman Zakhary and Sarah Powell, whose experiences span early breast cancer, inherited and family risk, and metastatic breast cancer. Thank you to Dyna, Sandra, Iman and Sarah for sharing their stories forward with such generosity, warmth and a sense of joy that comes through so clearly in the film. Conquering Breast Cancer is out now. You can find out where you can watch the film here. Where you can find Luan: Instagram Website LinkedIn If you’ve found any of the content upsetting, please reach out and get help. Breast Cancer Network Australia has a free confidential helpline – 1800 500 258. Beyond Blue has a range of free resources online, or you can call them 24/7 on 1300 224 636. The information in this podcast does not constitute medical advice. For personalised medical advice you should seek a consult with a FRACS qualified surgeon or equally qualified surgeon in your country. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S3 · E1
June 1 · 2 min
Rewritten Me Is Back: Before and After Breast Reconstruction
Rewritten Me is back! Australia’s podcast dedicated to supporting people having reconstruction after mastectomy returns with a new mini-series looking at the before and after realities of breast reconstruction. Here’s a short sneak peek at what to expect. Follow Rewritten Me wherever you listen to podcasts so you hear first when new episodes drop. CREDITS: Host & producer: Luan Lawrenson-Woods is an award-winning women’s health advocate, speaker and host of the Rewritten Me and Regarding Me podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 · E17
Jun 24, 2025 · 42 min
DIEP Flap Monitoring Explained: What, Why & How
From surgical signs to patient peace of mind, Dr Joe Dusseldorp breaks down what flap monitoring involves and why it matters for your recovery. For patients who choose flap-based breast reconstruction like DIEP, one of the biggest sources of anxiety is the fear that something could go wrong with the flap after surger and it “fails”. In this episode of Rewritten Me, I speak with leading reconstructive plastic surgeon Dr Joe Dusseldorp about what flap-based reconstruction involves, how the flap is monitored in the hours and days after surgery and what signs surgical teams watch for to support flap health. Dr Joe also shares details of a new trial to test a device called T-Stat, which is designed to support flap monitoring. He’s presenting the findings at the 2025 ASPS Plastic Surgery Congress this week. This episode will help you feel more informed during a time when you might feel out of control. And it's a powerful reminder that understanding what flap-based reconstruction is, what’s involved post-op and what recovery really looks like is all part of informed decision-making - a key aspect of self-advocacy. Want more tools and conversations to help you advocate for the surgery and health care that's right for you? Check out my new podcast, Regarding Me, or visit luanlawriewoods.com.au to learn more. Where you can find Luan: Instagram Website LinkedIn Where you can find Dr Joe: Website Instagram If you’ve found any of the content upsetting, please reach out and get help. Breast Cancer Network Australia has a free confidential helpline – 1800 500 258. Beyond Blue has a range of free resources online, or you can call them 24/7 on 1300 224 636. The information in this podcast does not constitute medical advice. For personalised medical advice you should seek a consult with a FRACS qualified surgeon or equally qualified surgeon in your country. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 · E16
Jun 22, 2025 · 8 min
What’s Next for Rewritten Me? And Why You’ll Love Regarding Me
This isn’t a usual episode - it’s an important update. Rewritten Me has always been about more than reconstruction. It’s about agency, questions, courage - and the quiet (or loud) moments of self-advocacy that shape our healthcare experiences. In this special episode, Luan shares what’s next for Rewritten Me, how self-advocacy has always been at the heart of the podcast, and why she launched Regarding Me to continue the story. If you’ve loved Rewritten Me, you’ll love Regarding Me. It has the same heart just with a wider lens to help you get the healthcare that’s right for you, so you can make choices that fit your life, not just your diagnosis. Because making decisions about breast cancer surgery is hard enough. Getting the right care shouldn’t be. 🎧 Plus: What to expect going forward, and how you can help keep this resource alive. 🔗 Listen to Regarding Me on your fave podcast platform. 🌐 Learn more or get in touch:www.luanlawriewoods.com.au 💙 Want to support or help fund future Rewritten Me episodes? I’d love to hear from you—DM me or head to the website to get in touch. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 · E15
Oct 24, 2024 · 1 hr 10 min
LEAP into lymphoedema: signs & intervention
Breast cancer treatment or surgery can have long-term or late effects that can affect your quality of life - for life. One of those is breast cancer-related lymphoedema, a condition that causes abnormal swelling due to damage to the lymphatic system. Early monitory, detection and intervention can make all the difference! This is a crucial conversation for anyone affected by breast cancer and at risk of lymphoedema. I sit down with Sandy Templeton, Lymphoedema Therapist and Occupational Therapist to talk about: What lymphoedema is and why it occurs in breast cancer patients How treatments and surgeries can increase the risk of lymphoedema Other factors that increase the risk of lymphoedema Recommended prospective assessment and monitoring How to recognise the early signs of lymphoedema Practical advice on preventing and managing lymphoedema Guidance on medical procedures (bloods, BP cuffs) involving the affected arm(s) Why lifelong vigilance and self-care are essential for those at risk of lymphoedema Don’t miss out on Sandy’s expert advice on how to stay ahead of lymphoedema and maintain your well-being! Whether you're a patient, caregiver, or healthcare professional, this episode provides invaluable insights into monitoring this condition effectively. Links for this episode Cancer Council lymphoedema resource Australasian Lymphology Association recommendations for patient education & prospective monitoring Information about IV, cannulation or blood pressure cuffs for ‘at risk’ arm(s) Gillian’s episode about post-surgery bras Where you can find Luan: Instagram Website LinkedIn If you’ve found any of the content upsetting, please reach out and get help. Breast Cancer Network Australia has a free confidential helpline – 1800 500 258. Beyond Blue has a range of free resources online, or you can call them 24/7 on 1300 224 636. The information in this podcast does not constitute medical advice. For personalised medical advice you should seek a consult with a FRACS qualified surgeon or equally qualified surgeon in your country. Post-production ‘shine’ by Paddy @ Goosing Sounds Ltd (UK) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 · E14
Oct 7, 2024 · 1 hr 1 min
OWise: be informed & regain control
As cancer treatment becomes more personalised and complex, staying informed to advocate for yourself can feel overwhelming. In today’s digital world, finding trustworthy, evidence-based information is often challenging. For Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I'm excited to share my conversation with Dr Anne Bruinvels, who was inspired by a friend's traumatic breast cancer experience to create OWise—a free app providing personalised support for breast cancer patients. Tune in to discover how this accredited app can help you navigate the complexities of diagnosis, treatment, and breast cancer surgeries like mastectomy and reconstruction, inlcuding: Mapping your treatment path Recording appointments Saving photographs Tracking symptoms, side effects & feelings Take part in BRA-va Art when you exercise and support people who have breast surgery - no fundraising, just fun raising! Links for this episode Get the app (web version) OWise on Instagram Where you can find Luan: Instagram Website LinkedIn If you’ve found any of the content upsetting, please reach out and get help. Breast Cancer Network Australia has a free confidential helpline – 1800 500 258. Beyond Blue has a range of free resources online, or you can call them 24/7 on 1300 224 636. The information in this podcast does not constitute medical advice. For personalised medical advice you should seek a consult with a FRACS qualified surgeon or equally qualified surgeon in your country. Post-production ‘shine’ by Paddy @ Goosing Sounds Ltd (UK) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 · E13
Sep 25, 2024 · 53 min
Nipple-sparing mastectomy & DIEP: what, why, when and how
Join me as I sit down with Dr Joe Dusseldorp, Reconstructive Plastic Surgeon, to talk in detail about nipple-sparing mastectomy with DIEP flap reconstruction after breast cancer surgery. We talk about: What the procedure is How it's done Why it may be appropriate for a patient When it can be done – immediate or delayed? What can impact results If it increases risk of DIEP flap failure Nipple sensation And Dr Joe kindly answers questions that our breast cancer community asked me to put to him about nipple-sparing options after a mastectomy! To help you understand this procedure fully, Dr Joe refers to other topics that we've talked about on the podcast in more detail - I’ve linked to previous episodes about those topics, below. Take part in BRA-va Art when you exercise and support people who have breast surgery - no fundraising, just fun raising! Links for this show: Dr Joe talking DIEP strategies Niki Crillo & nipple prosthetics Dr Matt & nipple reconstruction Bloom43 device to support healing Where you can find Dr Joe: Website Instagram Where you can find Luan: Instagram Website LinkedIn If you’ve found any of the content upsetting, please reach out and get help. Breast Cancer Network Australia has a free confidential helpline – 1800 500 258. Beyond Blue has a range of free resources online, or you can call them 24/7 on 1300 224 636. The information in this podcast does not constitute medical advice. For personalised medical advice you should seek a consult with a FRACS qualified surgeon or equally qualified surgeon in your country. Post-production ‘shine’ by Paddy @ Goosing Sounds Ltd (UK) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 · E12
Sep 15, 2024 · 1 hr 13 min
Nipple reconstruction: is it worth it?
One of the most frequently asked questions from people who’ve had their nipple removed as part of their mastectomy is: “is nipple reconstruction worth it?” As with all decisions around reconstruction after breast cancer surgery, this one is highly personal. I speak with Dr Matt Starr, Specialist Plastic Surgeon, to explore this topic further and talk about some of the myths about nipple reconstruction after a skin-sparing mastectomy to help you make an informed decision about whether it’s right for you. We talk about: Types of nipple reconstruction When it can be done Does it need to be done in hospital? What affects nipple projection? Risks of ‘failure’ Medicare funding Dr Matt also answers questions that our community wanted me to ask him! Take part in BRA-va Art when you exercise and support people who have breast surgery - no fundraising, just fun raising! Links for this show: Dr Matt’s website Dr Matt’s Instagram Where you can find Luan: Instagram Website LinkedIn If you’ve found any of the content upsetting, please reach out and get help. Breast Cancer Network Australia has a free confidential helpline – 1800 500 258. Beyond Blue has a range of free resources online, or you can call them 24/7 on 1300 224 636. The information in this podcast does not constitute medical advice. For personalised medical advice you should seek a consult with a FRACS qualified surgeon or equally qualified surgeon in your country. Post-production ‘shine’ by Paddy @ Goosing Sounds Ltd (UK) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 · E11
Aug 28, 2024 · 1 hr 4 min
Bloom43: a new era in breast surgery prep & prehab
What if there was something you could proactively do before breast surgery to help reduce the risk of complications and support healing? Something that’s drug-free and simple to do at home with minimal effort. Bloom43 is a wearable device designed to gently warm the skin, which patients can place in their bra the night before surgery. Developed by reconstructive plastic surgeon, Dr Saahil Mehta, it’s been shown to reduce healing complications, hospital stay, outpatient follow-up and re-operation rates. I talk to Dr. Saahil and Carly Moosah, the Patient Champion at Bloom43, about the reasons behind the development of the device and the importance of patient input, like Carly's, in the co-design process. Take part in BRA-va Art when you exercise and support people who have breast surgery - no fundraising, just fun raising! Links for this show: Bloom43 website Carly's Instagram Research Dr Saahil refers to Dr Saahil's LinkedIn Where you can find Luan: Instagram Website LinkedIn Warning: Speak to your surgeon about how you can best prepare for your surgery. Do not attempt to replicate the heating effects of Bloom43 before surgery without medical advice or supervision. If you’ve found any of the content upsetting, please reach out and get help. Breast Cancer Network Australia has a free confidential helpline – 1800 500 258. Beyond Blue has a range of free resources online, or you can call them 24/7 on 1300 224 636. The information in this podcast does not constitute medical advice. For personalised medical advice you should seek a consult with a FRACS qualified surgeon or equally qualified surgeon in your country. Post-production ‘shine’ by Paddy @ Goosing Sounds Ltd (UK) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 · E10
Aug 7, 2024 · 1 hr 11 min
TNBC, BRCA, DIEP - WTF?!
From shock diagnosis to choosing a reconstruction surgeon. Bec didn’t think for one minute that the lump in her breast was cancer. After the shock of being diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer, she was stunned when genetic testing revealed a mutation (as she has no family history of breast cancer). That kicked off an intense treatment plan. But the hardest part for Bec was choosing a reconstruction surgeon. Hear how Bec overcame the challenges of one shock after the next and found a plastic surgeon that was right for her. And how her breast surgeon’s insistence on genetic testing not only saved her life, but also potentially saved her sister’s life. Take part in BRA-va Art when you exercise and support people who have breast surgery - no fundraising, just fun raising! Links for this show: Triple Negative Breast Cancer for Australian and New Zealand Sisters STAGE 4,Triple Negative Breast Cancer for Australian & New Zealand Sisters Where you can find Luan: Instagram Website LinkedIn If you’ve found any of the content upsetting, please reach out and get help. Breast Cancer Network Australia has a free confidential helpline – 1800 500 258. Beyond Blue has a range of free resources online, or you can call them 24/7 on 1300 224 636. The information in this podcast does not constitute medical advice. For personalised medical advice you should seek a consult with a FRACS qualified surgeon or equally qualified surgeon in your country. Post-production ‘shine’ by Paddy @ Goosing Sounds Ltd (UK) Link to bRA-va art Link ot ANZ TNBC group Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 · E9
Jul 24, 2024 · 45 min
Feedback, complaints & compliments
Are you concerned about your FRACS Surgeon’s behaviour? Here’s how you can give purposeful feedback to help future patients. Historically, it was accepted that some surgeons had great surgical skills but poor bedside manners. However, research now shows a direct link between poor communication and patient complications. Luan talks to A/Prof Rhea Liang, General and Breast Surgeon, about the RACS (Royal Australasian College of Surgeons) and its Operate with Respect project, focusing on patient outcomes and rights. Through RACS, you can provide feedback about a surgeon - whether it's a concern, complaint, or compliment. This anonymous process offers a framework for timely, non-judgmental feedback to surgeons, addressing concerns, encouraging reflection and positive change. Dr Rhea discusses how studies indicate that this type of feedback is effective in managing behaviour, which crucial for patient outcomes and quality care. And don’t forget compliments – be sure to feed those back too! This is part two of Luan's interview with Dr Rhea - check out episode 4 for their talk about MDTs and patient-centred care. Links for this episode: Dr Rhea Liang on X (Twitter) RACS feedback & complaints Where you can find Luan: Instagram Website LinkedIn If you’ve found any of the content upsetting, please reach out and get help. Breast Cancer Network Australia has a free confidential helpline – 1800 500 258. Beyond Blue has a range of free resources online, or you can call them 24/7 on 1300 224 636. The information in this podcast does not constitute medical advice. For personalised medical advice you should seek a consult with a FRACS qualified surgeon or equally qualified surgeon in your country. Post-production ‘shine’ by Paddy @ Goosing Sounds Ltd (UK) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 · E8
Jul 12, 2024 · 57 min
FREE the prosthetic nipple!
Discover a pioneering post-mastectomy nipple option that you might not know about! If you've lost your nipple(s) as part of breast cancer surgery and are looking for non-surgical options, this episode is for you. Niki Crillo from Procosmediq is a pioneer in Australia, a medical tattooist and silicone prosthesis artisan who handmakes custom prosthetic nipples. She molds and colour-matches each piece, providing a realistic alternative to surgical reconstruction. However, due to their incredibly realistic appearance, these prosthetic nipples are often censored on social media, making them harder to discover! Luan and Niki talk about: Niki's unique process of making custom nipples DIY molds for clients across Australia and overseas Creative solutions for those without a nipple to mold The nipple mold 'library' How you can donate to the 'library' Fun 'Nip & Sip' events for awareness and support Don’t miss this enlightening conversation that could transform your post-mastectomy experience. Where you can find Niki: Instagram Website Where you can find Luan: Instagram Website LinkedIn If you’ve found any of the content upsetting, please reach out and get help. Breast Cancer Network Australia has a free confidential helpline – 1800 500 258. Beyond Blue has a range of free resources online, or you can call them 24/7 on 1300 224 636. The information in this podcast does not constitute medical advice. For personalised medical advice you should seek a consult with a FRACS qualified surgeon. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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