Reclaiming her reflection: A breast cancer survivor’s reconstruction journey
Before coming to Hoag, Lynn Hardin endured significant physical and emotional challenges after breast reconstruction surgery at another health system.
“Our breasts are deeply tied to how we see ourselves as women,” Lynn said. “When the outcome wasn’t what I had prepared for, I had to confront not just healing from cancer but healing from the aftermath. There were moments I didn’t recognize my own reflection.”
A routine mammogram had detected cancer in her left breast. Given her family history of the disease and long-term health goals, she chose to undergo a mastectomy with immediate reconstruction.
A 10-hour procedure addressed the cancer, but the recovery was complicated by a severe infection and tissue necrosis.
“Because of the infection, additional tissue had to be removed, which left me significantly asymmetrical,” Lynn said. “The imbalance caused real shoulder and neck pain, and it was a daily reminder that my recovery wasn’t complete. I was grateful the cancer had been treated, but survival alone wasn’t the full picture for me. I wanted thoughtful, corrective care and a result I could live comfortably with. That’s when I chose to seek another opinion.”
Lynn turned to Hoag where she met with Raquel Minasian, MD, a plastic and breast reconstructive surgeon at Hoag’s Sue J. Gross Comprehensive Breast Center.
“During my consultation, Dr. Minasian gave me a big hug and said, ‘I'm going to take care of this. I'm going to take care of you.’ She was just so incredibly knowledgeable and kind.”
To address the complications from the infection, Dr. Minasian removed residual scar tissue, placed an implant, and performed fat grafting to restore contour and balance. A second procedure included a lift and nipple reconstruction on the opposite breast to achieve symmetry.
“When I meet with a patient and I learn their story, I put myself in their shoes,” Dr. Minasian said. “I think about all the things I’d want to know if I was going through what they are, and I make sure they are as informed as possible.”
While Lynn’s physical transformation has restored her confidence in her body and her future, the expertise, compassion and patience of her care team has been just as important to her healing journey.
“I look in the mirror now and recognize myself,” she said. “This experience reminded me that I have a voice in my own care. Working with a surgeon who listened, respected my goals, and partnered with me made all the difference.”
Learn more about the Hoag Comprehensive Breast Care Program.
