By The Respondents Reporter
Breast cancer survivors who have undergone mastectomies are receiving reconstructive surgery at the Muhimbili National Hospital as part of a specialised medical camp aimed at restoring both physical appearance and psychological well-being after cancer treatment.
The five-day surgical camp, which started on June 29 and ends on July 3, is providing breast reconstruction procedures for four women who lost one or both breasts due to breast cancer or traumatic injuries.
The initiative seeks to improve their quality of life by helping them regain confidence and body image after completing treatment.
Head of the Surgery Department at Muhimbili, Dr. Ibrahim Mkoma, said mastectomy often performed as a life-saving treatment for breast cancer can leave patients with lasting physical changes and emotional distress.
“Breast reconstruction is more than a cosmetic procedure. It restores the natural shape and symmetry of the breast, helping women rebuild their confidence and recover emotionally after treatment,” Dr. Mkoma said.
He noted that reconstructive surgery is an important part of comprehensive breast cancer care, addressing not only the disease itself but also the long-term impact it has on patients' lives.
The surgeries are being performed by a joint team of specialists from Muhimbili and experts from the University of California, San Francisco, reflecting an ongoing collaboration to strengthen advanced surgical services in Tanzania.
Before the operations, the medical team carried out detailed clinical assessments to identify patients who met the health requirements for the complex procedures.
Breast reconstruction surgery remains a specialised service that is not widely available in many low- and middle-income countries.
Muhimbili's programme is expected to improve access to advanced reconstructive care while enhancing the skills of local surgeons through collaboration with international specialists.
Health experts say integrating reconstructive surgery into breast cancer treatment can significantly improve survivors' emotional recovery, self-esteem and overall quality of life, making it an essential component of patient-centred cancer care.
