Dr Mariusz Marek Ostrowski MD, PhD, FEBS Breast

01/07/2025

What are the signs of breast cancer? Be breast aware.

30/06/2025

Wondering what happens at a One-Stop Breast Clinic?

At your visit, you’ll receive a thorough assessment by a team of specialists—including a surgeon, radiologist, and breast care nurse. Expect a detailed consultation, breast examination, and, if needed, same-day imaging like a mammogram or ultrasound. If any concerns are found, a quick, minimally invasive biopsy may be done—all in one appointment. This streamlined approach means less waiting, faster answers, and a personalized care plan for your peace of mind.
Call 0784118008 to book your appointment.

29/06/2025

Feeling the heat from HRT? 🔥 Yoga, meditation, and even cotton sheets can help relieve your hot flash symptoms.

Find more ways to manage hot flashes naturally without hormones here: https://bit.ly/3Tc3zF0

26/06/2025

1 in 5 people get skin cancer!

# Skin Cancer and Melanoma: What You Need to Know

Skin cancer is the most common cancer worldwide, caused by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal skin cells, often due to DNA damage from ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. Early detection and treatment offer a high chance of cure for most skin cancers.

# # # Types of Skin Cancer

- **Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC):** The most common type, usually appearing as a pearly or waxy bump on sun-exposed areas.
- **Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC):** Often appears as a firm, red nodule or a flat lesion with a scaly, crusted surface.
- **Melanoma:** The most serious form, developing from pigment-producing cells (melanocytes). Melanoma can spread quickly and become life-threatening if not caught early.

# # # What is Melanoma?

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that often starts as a new mole or a change in an existing mole. It can develop anywhere on the body, but is more common in sun-exposed areas. Melanoma is more dangerous than other skin cancers because it can spread (metastasize) to other organs if not treated promptly.

# # # # Signs and Symptoms of Melanoma

- A new mole or a change in an existing mole
- Moles with uneven shape or edges
- Moles with a mix of colors
- Large moles (often more than 6mm)
- Moles that change size, shape, or color over time
- Moles that are swollen, sore, bleeding, itchy, or crusty

> **Remember the ABCDE rule for melanoma:**
> - **A**symmetry
> - **B**order irregularity
> - **C**olor variation
> - **D**iameter over 6mm
> - **E**volving (changing over time)

# # # Risk Factors

- Excessive sun exposure and history of sunburns
- Use of tanning beds
- Having many or abnormal moles
- Fair skin, light hair, and light eyes
- Family or personal history of skin cancer
- Weakened immune system

# # # Prevention

- Seek shade, especially between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
- Wear sun-protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses
- Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) regularly
- Avoid tanning beds
- Perform regular skin self-exams and see a dermatologist for suspicious changes

# # # Treatment

- **Surgery:** Most common and effective for early-stage skin cancers and melanomas.
- **Other options:** May include cryotherapy, chemotherapy creams, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and radiation, depending on the type and stage.
- **Prognosis:** Early detection is critical; most skin cancers are highly treatable when caught early.

# # # When to See a Doctor

See a healthcare provider if you notice:
- A mole or skin spot that changes in size, shape, or color
- A new or unusual mark that doesn't go away
- Any lesion that is painful, itchy, bleeding, or crusty

**Takeaway:**
Protect your skin from UV exposure, check your skin regularly, and consult a healthcare provider for any suspicious changes. Early diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer, especially melanoma, save lives.

If you noticed any new symptoms please call 0784118008 to book an appointment.

23/06/2025

A very common question: is mammography safe after breast augmentation surgery?

Mammograms are still a safe and effective way to screen for breast cancer if you have implants. Here's how the process is adapted to help your care team get the clearest possible view. 🔗https://bit.ly/4h8qqdy

12/06/2025

# Benefits of Breast Reduction Surgery

Breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammoplasty, offers a wide range of physical, psychological, and lifestyle benefits for individuals with overly large breasts. Below is a comprehensive overview of the key advantages supported by clinical evidence and patient experiences.

**Physical Health Benefits**

- **Relief from Chronic Pain:** One of the most immediate and significant benefits is the alleviation of pain in the upper back, neck, and shoulders caused by the weight of large breasts[2][5][8]. Many patients report that this relief is almost immediate after surgery.
- **Improved Posture:** By reducing the weight on the chest, patients often experience better posture, which can further reduce musculoskeletal discomfort and prevent long-term postural issues[5][6].
- **Reduction in Skin Irritation:** Large breasts can cause skin irritation, rashes, and even infections under the breast fold due to constant friction and moisture. Surgery reduces these risks by minimizing excess skin and tissue[2][5].
- **Easier Physical Activity:** Many individuals find it difficult to participate in sports or exercise due to discomfort or pain from large breasts. Breast reduction can make physical activities more comfortable and accessible, promoting a healthier lifestyle[2][3][5][7].
- **Correction of Asymmetry:** The procedure can address and correct asymmetrical breasts, resulting in a more balanced appearance[2].

**Psychological and Quality of Life Benefits**

- **Enhanced Self-Esteem and Body Image:** Numerous studies show a significant boost in self-confidence and satisfaction with body image following breast reduction. This improvement in self-esteem is one of the most commonly reported benefits[2][3][5][7][8].
- **Reduction in Emotional Distress:** Many patients experience less anxiety and depression related to their appearance and physical discomfort after surgery[5].
- **Improved Quality of Life:** The combination of physical relief and psychological benefits leads to an overall enhancement in quality of life, with many patients reporting high satisfaction rates post-surgery[2][7].

**Additional Health and Lifestyle Benefits**

- **Better Clothing Fit:** Shopping for clothes and bras becomes easier and less stressful, as patients can find better-fitting garments and enjoy a wider range of styles[7].
- **Potential Health Risk Reduction:** There is some evidence that breast reduction may aid in early detection of breast abnormalities due to less dense tissue and may indirectly contribute to a lower risk of certain health issues, such as diabetes and cardiovascular strain, through improved mobility and posture[5].
- **Permanent Results:** While breasts will continue to change with age, the reduction in size and weight is generally permanent, offering long-term relief and benefits[6].

Breast reduction surgery is associated with high patient satisfaction and is considered one of the most rewarding procedures for those struggling with the physical and emotional burdens of large breasts[2][7][8].

Citations:
[1] What is a breast reduction and what are the benefits of this procedure? https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/blog/what-is-a-breast-reduction-and-what-are-the-benefits-of-this-procedure
[2] Pros and Cons of Breast Reduction | Ran Stark, MD https://www.starkmdplasticsurgery.com/blog/pros-and-cons-of-breast-reduction/
[3] Pros and Cons of Breast Reduction: What Are the Benefits? https://creoclinic.com/blog/breast-reduction-pros-and-cons/
[4] Breast reduction for women | Better Health Channel https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/breast-reduction-for-women
[5] 15 Health Benefits of Undergoing a Breast Reduction https://drdongraham.com/health-benefits-of-undergoing-a-breast-reduction/
[6] Breast Reduction Surgery - UT Southwestern Medical Center https://utswmed.org/conditions-treatments/breast-reduction/
[7] The Three Leading Benefits of Breast Reduction Surgery https://drspiro.com/the-three-leading-benefits -of-breast-reduction-surgery/
[8] Breast Reduction - Cleveland Clinic https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/11025-breast-reduction

A breast reduction offers significant benefits to women desiring smaller, more proportional breasts. There are a number of reasons, both medical and cosmetic, for women to undergo this procedure.

11/06/2025

What to Expect at Your Appointment:
We offer One Stop Clinic: on the day of the visit you should expect the following:
Consultation with a breast consultant and nurse
Discussion of your medical and family history
Breast examination
Explanation of necessary tests, which may include:
Mammography, ultrasound of the Breasts and axillary lymph nodes.
If required ultrasound guided Biopsy

Consultant Breast, Skin & Endocrine Surgeon, specialist in breast surgery: cancer and reconstruction, breast reduction, symmetrisation, skin cancer and thyroid surgery
MPShah Hospital Doctor’s Plaza 3rd floor room T3 in Nairobi Kenya

06/05/2025

https://youtu.be/MhoMP_9qhNA?si=R_Gf95qgUDesY_v9

Dr. Liz O'Riordan talking about dense breasts

Learn How Breast Density Impacts Cancer Risk With Dr. Liz O'Riordan - Cancer || Dr Liz O'RiordanIf you watch this video you will know more about breast dens...

16/11/2024

Notice a breast change? Our app will guide you. https://bit.ly/3UxVniO

11/11/2024

Scientists aren’t sure whether eating dairy increases breast cancer risk, but some evidence shows certain dairy products may actually protect against it. https://bit.ly/40KgKRR

25/10/2024

Sharon‬ & Winnie, both under 40, talk frankly about their breast cancer journeys with Breast Care Nurse, Ruth. In this youtube video they talk about the stigmas surrounding a breast cancer diagnosis. Follow the link to listen in.

& Winnie, both under 40, talk frankly about their breast cancer journeys with Nurse Ruth. Here they talk about the stigmas surrounding a br...

24/10/2024

During Breast October, I have been talking to some of our younger breast cancer survivors, Winnie & Sharon, who share their experience on youtube. Listen in to their stories - they are inspirational!

‪Sharon ‬ & Winnie are two young breast cancer survivors in Nairobi, Kenya. In this video they talk candidly to Dr Marek, breast surgeon base...