Dubai, United Arab Emirates -- (SBWIRE) -- 10/06/2015 -- For women around the world, cancer of the breast is the most common variety of cancer, and in the UAE, according to figures from the Ministry of Health, it is the second biggest killer of females after cardiovascular disease. Indeed it is frequently quoted that the chances of contracting breast cancer is as high as 1 in 8. Yet, if detected early, the survival rate is 98 per cent. But UAE women for whom mastectomy is the necessary choice, either because they have already developed breast cancer or because they need, often urgently, to undergo prophylactic surgery, now have a much wider choice available to re-build their breasts in a very natural way thanks to advanced surgical procedures offered by Elite Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery Group of Dubai Healthcare City.

Cases of breast cancer are on the rise around the world, and in the UAE it has been reported that, since 2009, numbers have actually risen by 20 per cent. Although, in the absence of a UAE cancer registry, the reasons for this reported increase can not be determined with certainty. Nevertheless, according to government figures, only 30 per cent of cases in the UAE are diagnosed in the early stages when the chance of a cure is highest. This is much lower than in most western countries, and many women still do not go for regular check-ups for a variety of reasons, even including a certain stigma in conservative communities concerning self-examination.

Fortunately in recent years the situation is changing and awareness about breast cancer has significantly advanced, with the government encouraging families to proactively take charge of their health, helping to increase understanding and empower women in the fight against cancer. The Breast Cancer Awareness month of October is just one such highly effective initiative.

According to Dr Allen Rezai, Consultant Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon and Lead Surgeon at Elite Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery Group, a leading international figure in reconstructive breast surgery, the exact underlying reasons for the development of breast cancer are yet to be found, however there are known to be certain factors closely related to its development. Dr Rezai explains that the key risk factors relate to age, family history, genetics, race, breast tissue type, and a whole range of lifestyle related factors. In the case of Arab women, according to recent research by the World Cancer Research Fund, it is particularly important to limit salt intake and reduce consumption of fatty, fried and processed foods, and keep their Body-Mass Index (BMI) down.

They should also limit the amount of red meat consumed and eat plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables. In short, there are many factors to be taken into account and also many, often small, changes that can be made to a person's lifestyle and eating habits which, when taken as a whole, can lead to significant overall health benefits.

Dr Rezai explains that, once cancer has been diagnosed, or once the presence of certain gene mutations have been identified which point to a high likelihood of cancer in the future, in spite of recent advancements in the development of more targeted cancer-fighting drugs, "for some women with breast cancer, mastectomy is still the best option, although in many cases this leaves them with psychological problems. Following mastectomy, even though it may save the patient's life, and in spite of the support they might receive from husband, family and friends, the resulting deformed chest can severely damage a woman's self-image. Loss of one or both breasts, which are a potent symbol of femininity, can have major psychological consequences. For example, it can affect their relationship with their husband or make entering into future relationships more difficult. She might also feel isolated. Such factors can create a huge amount of distress not only for the patient but also for their family and friends."

Discussing what can be done following mastectomy, Dr Rezai comments that "Using an external prosthesis, an artificial breast that is worn, is not really an adequate response to the deformity which has been created following a mastectomy. Each time a person dresses they will be confronted with a constant reminder of their chest's deformity. Choosing clothes will also be difficult for them, as will be taking part in activities such as swimming, dancing or jogging. And use of an external prosthesis in a hot climate can also be very uncomfortable for women.

"By opting for breast reconstruction, a woman will feel more comfortable and then be able to wear all types of clothing, and participate in activities of their choice without showing any external signs of her surgery. She will be able to return to an active and productive life, working and providing support to her family and friends, as well as receiving it from them. This is important not only for the breast cancer patients themselves, but also for their families and society in general."

Dr Rezai explains that there are many techniques available for breast reconstruction, from the use of silicone or saline implants, through to the latest techniques of autologous tissue reconstruction, in which the patient's own tissue is used to create the new breast.

"Implant breast reconstruction is good for patients who are not suitable for autologous tissue reconstruction, and of course it can also be used even for patients who specifically request it," says Dr Rezai. "However, the Plastic & Reconstructive Surgical Team at Elite Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery Group prefer to use the techniques of autologous tissue reconstruction when possible. We believe that this will produce breasts with the most natural look and feel, and they will remain with a woman for life, whereas synthetic implants will eventually need replacing.

"In Autologous breast reconstruction we use the patient's own tissue from another part of their body, for example from the lower abdomen, to recreate the breast. This will enable nerve regeneration and a faster return of sensation to the reconstructed breast compared to an implant-based reconstruction. Another important and positive factor is that breasts reconstructed in this way will grow and shrink naturally as one's weight changes, thereby keeping the reconstructed breast in proportion to the rest of the body.

"Without going into too much depth, there are two types of Autologous Reconstruction: one where we work with what are known as musculocutaneous flaps, and the other with perforator flaps. The former involves detaching the tissue, including the muscle within the flap, from the surrounding tissues but keeping the blood vessels attached to the body, and then rotating it around the blood vessels to the new position at the reconstruction site. The latter involves creating a flap consisting of skin, fatty tissue and tiny blood vessels that supply nutrients to the tissue, and completely detaching it from the surrounding tissues at the donor site, then transferring it to the breast reconstruction site and re-connecting the blood vessels. Whilst all Autologous Reconstruction methods employ very advanced surgical methods, the perforator procedures are the most advanced, requiring microsurgical expertise in order to re-connect the blood vessels to ensure that the flap receives the blood supply needed to survive."

According to Dr Rezai, within Autologous Reconstruction there exist a wide range of variations that can be employed, depending upon many different factors, including whether the surgery will be performed at the same time as mastectomy or at a later date; various physical and medical factors involving the patient; and also patient and surgeon preference. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, but the result is the availability of a wide range of treatment options.

Indeed, almost two years ago, Dr Rezai and his team performed what is believed to have been the first ever bilateral autologous DIEP Flap breast reconstruction in the Middle East, a fact which was at that time extensively covered by the Middle Eastern media. The DIEP technique is a particular variant involving micro-surgery that takes tissue from the abdomen to form the new breast. Dr Rezai explains that "This procedure generally takes anywhere from six to eight hours to complete, being lengthy due to the precise nature of the micro-surgery. However, the effort is rewarded by excellent cosmetic results. The procedure is also less invasive, resulting in less pain and faster recovery. It is also ideal for anyone who would also benefit from having tummy tuck surgery, since the resultant effect on the tummy will be very similar to this!"

Dr Rezai sums up the situation stating that "In many ways autologous reconstruction is better than implant reconstruction, but it is important to understand that the procedure takes more time to perform, requires longer hospitalization and time for recovery, and of course the skills of a highly experienced plastic and reconstructive surgeon. Overall I strongly believe that breast reconstruction improves a patient's quality of life, makes them more confident and allows them to return to being their active selves."

More detailed information regarding breast reconstruction and the available options can be had by visiting the Breast Reconstruction section on the Elite Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery Group website at http://elitecosmeticsurgery.ae/

Dr Rezai's website is at: http://allenrezaimd.co.uk

About Elite Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery Group
Elite Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery Group (EPCSG) is a leading cosmetic surgery clinic in the Middle East where they welcome both local and international patients to their Dubai Healthcare City clinic. EPCSG specialises in facial, breast and body surgery and also offer a wide range of leading edge state-of-the-art non-surgical rejuvenation procedures, including Exilis RF plus Ultrasound, PRP and laser treatments.

They can be contacted through their clinic in Dubai Healthcare City as follows:

Contact: Allen Rezai MD, Lead Surgeon
Elite Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery Group FZ-LLC
Al Razi Building 64, Block C
4th Floor, Unit 4012
Oud Metha Road, P.O.Box 127610
Dubai Healthcare City
UAE
Telephone: +971 (0)44 312 396
E-mail: office@elitecosmeticsurgery.ae
http://elitecosmeticsurgery.ae