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Model Credits Breast Augmentation for Early Breast Cancer Detection
A 32-year-old model believes her breast augmentation procedure was instrumental in saving her life by leading to the swift discovery of an aggressive form of breast cancer.
Lump Discovery Leads to Diagnosis
Tayla Gardiner, 32, initially detected a small mass in her right breast while showering in January and promptly consulted her general practitioner for a medical assessment.
Following an examination, she was referred to a specialist breast cancer clinic. Subsequent tests confirmed a diagnosis of triple-negative breast cancer, a particularly challenging type of the disease to treat.
Implant Prominence Aided Detection
Although the cancerous growth measured just 17mm, roughly the size of a grape, Ms. Gardiner posits that her breast implant, which gave her an E cup size, pushed the lump forward, making it more noticeable during self-examination.
Currently, she maintains a positive outlook, expressing hope that the early detection of the cancer will significantly improve her treatment outcomes.
Patient Recounts Initial Discovery and Medical Consultation
The mother-of-one, residing in Gravesend, Kent, recounted, “In January, I felt a small lump and experienced itchiness in my right breast. Initially, I suspected it was a cyst or merely damaged tissue.”
“I consulted a female physician who examined my breast and noted the lump was very small, suggesting it might be an infection.”
“Nevertheless, she proceeded with a referral to ensure everything was alright, and I am incredibly grateful that she did.”
Shocking Diagnosis and Implant Influence
“Three weeks later, I received the life-altering news that I had breast cancer. It was a profound shock,” Ms. Gardiner shared.
“The tumor is small, currently only 17mm, but I believe because of my substantial breast implants, the lump was pushed forward, making it easier to detect,” she explained.
“I believe this significantly aided in finding the lump because individuals are encouraged to perform regular breast self-exams, and with implants, any irregularities might be more apparent.”
“Words cannot adequately express my emotions upon receiving the diagnosis. My immediate question was, ‘Am I going to die?'”
Concerns Over Implant Rupture
Ms. Gardiner, who first underwent breast augmentation surgery in 2014, expressed concerns about a possible connection between a ruptured implant and her cancer diagnosis.
“I had been experiencing recurrent kidney and water infections and underwent a comprehensive CT scan, which revealed that my right breast implant had ruptured,” she recalled.
“The ruptured implant was surgically removed, and it presented a yellow discoloration, indicative of prolonged presence and causing significant pain.”
“Subsequently, I suffered two breast infections in August and December.”
Coincidence and Regular Self-Checks
“It is a striking coincidence that the cancer developed in my right breast, the same side where the implant ruptured,” Ms. Gardiner noted.
As she awaits the determination of her treatment plan, Ms. Gardiner, who had experienced no symptoms other than fatigue, is now strongly advocating for regular breast self-examinations.
“Currently, everything feels surreal, a waiting period,” she stated.
“I am awaiting consultation to determine whether I will require a lumpectomy, mastectomy, chemotherapy, or radiotherapy.”
“Physically, I feel relatively well, experiencing only tiredness, but otherwise unaware of the cancer‘s presence.”
“Apart from the palpable lump, there are no other indications of cancer.”
Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: Characteristics and Prognosis
Triple-negative breast cancer constitutes approximately one in ten breast cancer diagnoses and is associated with a less favorable prognosis compared to other forms of the disease.
It is generally more aggressive, characterized by rapid growth and a higher likelihood of spreading and recurrence following treatment.
This type of breast cancer is also more prevalent in women under 40 and disproportionately affects women of African descent.
Survival rates for women with triple-negative breast cancer are lower, with approximately two-thirds surviving beyond five years post-diagnosis.
The prognosis becomes significantly more challenging if the disease is detected at later stages, after the cancer has metastasized.
In advanced cases of triple-negative breast cancer, five-year survival rates can be as low as one in ten women.
Optimism and Call to Action
Despite the diagnosis and awaiting surgical intervention, Ms. Gardiner remains optimistic. “Life is precious and finite, a reality that becomes starkly apparent upon receiving a cancer diagnosis. It shifts your perspective,” she reflected.
“Every day, I am acutely aware of the cancer within my breast and my desire to have it surgically removed.”
“Had I delayed seeking medical attention for a year, the outcome might have been drastically different,” she acknowledged.
“We possess innate knowledge of our own bodies. If you detect any anomaly or sense that something is amiss, promptly consult a physician for evaluation.”
“Do not delay. Do not ignore it. Even if you feel apprehensive or self-conscious,” she urged.