When Stephanie Skrede entered Aurora BayCare Medical Center’s high-risk breast cancer program, she never imagined she’d soon be facing her own diagnosis. After a clean scan just six months earlier, the news came as a shock. As a mother of four, Stephanie chose a double mastectomy followed by chemotherapy and immunotherapy, determined to take the most aggressive approach to prevent recurrence.
Initially, Stephanie opted for a flat closure, believing she could live without reconstruction. But over time, she realized something was missing; she didn’t feel like herself. That’s when she turned to Plastic Surgery & Skin Specialists by BayCare Clinic, including Dr. Karri Adamson, for guidance.
Dr. Adamson explains that breast reconstruction is a deeply personal decision, and it doesn’t have to happen immediately. “Some patients decide before their mastectomies, and others come to that decision months or even years later,” she says. Most insurance plans that cover mastectomy also cover reconstruction, whenever the patient feels ready.
Stephanie underwent DIEP-flap surgery, a technique that uses tissue from the abdomen to rebuild the breast. The result? A renewed sense of self and closure after a long journey.
Her story is a powerful reminder that breast reconstruction is not just about physical healing; it’s about emotional recovery and reclaiming identity. Stephanie’s message to others: “Do what’s right for you, when it’s right for you.”