BID Plymouth Breast Center Certified for Hidden Scar Breast Cancer Surgery
Plymouth, MA – The Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Plymouth (BID Plymouth) Breast Center has been named a Hidden Scar Center of Excellence in recognition of the hospital now offering an advanced approach to breast cancer surgery that removes cancerous tissue but hides visible scarring. This new option provides women on the South Shore with a procedure that effectively treats the cancer while optimizing cosmetic results.
Hidden Scar breast cancer surgery allows BID Plymouth breast cancer surgeon Robyn Sachs, MD, the ability to remove the cancerous tissue through a single incision made in a hidden area, preserving the natural shape of the breast while reducing visible scarring. “Hidden scar surgery combines plastic and oncologic techniques to provide removal of breast abnormalities with minimal scarring,” says Dr. Robyn Sachs, Director of the BID Plymouth Breast Center.
Each year, more than 250,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer that requires surgery. Many are unaware of all the surgical options available, including less invasive approaches that can help restore their self-image and allow them to begin the emotional healing process. Five-year survival rates for breast cancer are high, however; the surgery scars left behind are more than a physical reminder. They impact confidence, intimacy and mental wellbeing for many women. Living with noticeable scars after breast cancer surgery is no longer necessary.
“We know that breast surgery scars strongly impact a patient's body image and self-confidence,” says Dr. Sachs. “With our Hidden Scar techniques, a scar doesn't have to be the first thing that a patient notices in the mirror anymore. Not all women are candidates for the technique but it certainly can be considered in most.”
The nationally-accredited BID Plymouth Breast Center represents a concerted effort across medical, radiological and surgical disciplines at BID Plymouth to provide the highest quality breast health care. The Center’s advanced technology and multidisciplinary approach streamlines the process from the time a patient enters the hospital and an abnormality is detected — usually less than five days.
About Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Plymouth
Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Plymouth (BID Plymouth) is a non-profit healthcare and hospice provider, serving 250,000 residents of 12 towns in Plymouth and Barnstable Counties. BID Plymouth is a full-service, 170-bed acute care community hospital accredited by The Joint Commission, the College of American Pathologists, the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer, and the American College of Radiology.
BID Plymouth is a part of Beth Israel Lahey Health, a health care system that brings together academic medical centers and teaching hospitals, community and specialty hospitals, more than 4,700 physicians and 39,000 employees in a shared mission to expand access to great care and advance the science and practice of medicine through groundbreaking research and education.