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Cancer Treatment

Cancer treatment depends upon the grade or stage of the cancer, if the cancer is localized or has spread and how aggressive the cancer is. Generally speaking, early stage cancer treatment may be less invasive and is associated with the highest survival rate when compared to later stage forms of cancer.

The Basics: Your Doctors

Treatment often involves an interdisciplinary approach, combining the expertise of your internal medicine doctor, oncologist,  a medical specialty surgeon who likely specialized in oncology, pathologists, radiologists, oncology nurses,  psychologists and spiritual support professionals.

The Cancer Treatment Plan

Your oncologist and/or related  medical specialists may know how to take the best offensive against your  enemy and may work together with aesthetic medical professionals to optimize treatment. The following is a partial list  of cancer treatments. More specific information may be found by clicking on the blue medical specialty area (left side) in this website that relates to your condition.

  • Benign tumors may be removed surgically, or simply left alone and regularly monitored.
  • Malignant tumors may be dealt with by surgery, if it’s safe to be removed from the person affected with cancer.
  • Radiation therapy or chemotherapy may be an adjunct to treatment for many forms of cancer.
  • Hormone therapy may be recommended in some cases of breast or prostate cancer.
  • Monoclonal antibodies have been found to be useful for some people with breast cancer and lymphoma.

Cancer Treatment Side Effects

It is best to review all possible side effects from treatment with your oncologist and surgeon.  The side effects of cancer treatment depend upon the type of treatment, including, but not necessarily limited to:

  • Fatigue
  • Depression and Mood Swings
  • Aches and Pains
  • Nausea and Vomiting
  • Hair Loss

Prescription drugs, emotional and physical therapy and spiritual counseling are helpful according to each person’s specific needs.

Complication Risks

It is best to review all possible complication risks from treatment with all of your treating physicians and surgeons.  Complications risks may include anything from shingles to intestinal rupture, other medical conditions and more significant complications, depending upon the area to be treated and the type of treatment.

The Aesthetic Consideration in Cancer Treatment

Depending upon the type of cancer you have and the severity, your treatment plan  may involve the expertise of a medical professional who is keenly familiar with the aesthetic considerations in cancer treatment, such as, a board certified dermatological surgeon or plastic surgeon.  In some cases, these medical specialists may have obtained advanced training and have enhanced their artistic and technical skills to assist in the treatment of cancer from the cosmetic prospective.

  • Skin cancer treated with Moh’s surgery offers a less invasive approach when compared to alternatives which may be more aesthetically appealing, providing you qualify for treatment.
  •  Plastic surgeons all perform breast reconstruction following treatment and there are a variety of enhanced techniques available to help ensure the most natural appearance of your breasts and to help ensure functionality.

In these forms of cancer, it is just as wise to consult with a dermatological surgeon or plastic surgeon at the onset of your condition, just as it is important to consult with an oncologist.

There may be times when the fight against cancer cannot be won.  It is during these times that reflection, inner peace and love may be most meaningful. Support may offer relief during trying times through counseling, hospice, loved ones and/or those you meet in a healthcare facility.

It is important to recognize that medications and medical procedures are associated with benefits and risks that should be discussed with your physician. It is important to recognize that all information contained on this website cannot be considered to be specific medical diagnosis, medical treatment, or medical advice. As always, you should consult with a physician regarding any medical condition. Your Health Access disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.