17: Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon Explains Breast Implants, Going Flat & Your Rights After Cancer

Breast reconstruction after breast cancer is about far more than appearance. It’s about healing, identity, dignity, and knowing your options. In this episode of SIS: Sisters In Survivorship, host Caleen Allen sits down with renowned board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Camille Cash to break down what every Black woman needs to know about breast reconstruction after a breast cancer diagnosis. Dr. Camille Cash explains the full range of reconstruction options, from implants and tissue expanders to using your own tissue, delayed reconstruction, and choosing not to reconstruct at all. She also reveals why many Black women are still less likely to undergo reconstruction, even when insurance and access are not the barrier. This conversation also tackles the realities of radiation, lifelong surveillance after breast cancer, early diagnosis in younger women, the importance of 3D mammograms, and why advocating for yourself could save your life. ✨ Learn more: sistersnetworkinc.org  🔔 Subscribe for more episodes of SIS: Sisters In Survivorship! KEY POINTS  [0:00] – Introduction [3:31] – Dr. Camille Cash on being double board certified [6:30] – A breast cancer diagnosis often comes before reconstruction is even discussed [8:10] – Breast reconstruction is covered by law, like future revisions & symmetry procedures [9:39] – Reconstruction is optional [13:23] – Understanding implant-based vs. tissue-based reconstruction helps women make informed decisions [22:42] – Black women are choosing breast reconstruction at lower rates [24:57] – More young women are being diagnosed with aggressive breast cancers [31:28] – Breast reconstruction is about more than appearance [35:59] – Every woman deserves to know reconstruction options and community education  QUOTES  “Reconstruction isn’t just about looking good. It’s about healing and restoring identity.” – Dr. Camille Cash “One of the number one risk factors of breast cancer is having previous breast cancer.”  – Dr. Camille Cash “They still have the right to know about their reconstructive options, even if they decide they don’t want to do it.”  – Dr. Camille Cash RESOURCES Dr. Camille Cash Website - www.camillecashmd.com IG - @realdrcash Website - sistersnetworkinc.org IG -  @sistersnetwork YouTube Channel - @SisInSurvivorshipPodcast