Episode 55: Breast Reconstruction Surgery in New Orleans at CRBS
Release Date: 05/08/2024
Episode 98: Am I Being Told All My Options for Breast Reconstruction?
DiepCJourney Podcast
How can you help today? After listening to this interview with a highly skilled microsurgeon, of , share it with someone who is newly diagnosed, has a genetic mutation putting them at high risk, and is facing a mastectomy but wants to reconstruct their breasts. Since opening in 2016, our intent has been to empower patients with information about all breast reconstruction options. There are three options: Implant-based reconstruction used a medical device surgically placed in the body after a mastectomy to replace the breast tissue that has been removed. A plastic surgeon can do...
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Episode 97: Exercise That Supports Healing
DiepCJourney Podcast
We know from evidence-based studies that exercise improves patient recovery before and after breast cancer treatment and surgery. It improves quality of life and strengthens physical function. In this episode of the we explore the benefits with Chris Fitzmaurice, a Clinical Exercise Physiologist at the University of Miami Health System. He is passionate about helping people achieve their health goals through evidence-based exercise programs and personalized guidance. He is a Certified Cancer Exercise Trainer (CET); and Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) and Health...
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Episode 96: Breast Sensibility: The Mind/Body Connection
DiepCJourney Podcast
On this episode of the my guest is Dr. Stefania Tuinder, a notable global expert in breast sensation for those undergoing mastectomy and breast reconstruction. Originally from Italy, she is now located in Maastricht in the south of the Netherlands and works at an academic hospital. Her main work there is microsurgery, not only breasts but for sure breasts is where she does the majority of her work. Dr. Tuinder does only autologous breast reconstruction using all kinds of flaps. She has an active research interest in breast sensibility. The word sensibility is often referred to as sensation in...
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Episode 95: Where Passion Meets Surgical Precision
DiepCJourney Podcast
As part of my work at , I am able to meet in person, well-known board-certified surgeons across the world. My guest is one such surgeon I know. I have been anxious to interview her. Two words I find myself choosing to describe her are: Adaptable and compassionate. Each time I see her at a conference, the conversation is so easy and comfortable. I can’t think it would be any different with her patients. is a plastic surgeon at the at Magee Women’s Hospital. Topics she covers in our interview include: · How she developed her passion for...
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Episode 94: A Breast Reconstruction Journey Toward Clarity & Confidence
DiepCJourney Podcast
Deciding which breast reconstruction path to take is rarely simple. Whether facing an active breast cancer diagnosis, navigating a high‑risk genetic mutation, or having a strong family history of cancer, the process demands research, planning, trust, and a strong circle of support. In this episode of the , we sit down with Marcy Goodman who is a wife, mother, and dedicated professional. She opens up about the many layers of her decision to pursue autologous (using her own tissue) breast reconstruction. Marcy shares how she evaluated her options, found the right surgical team, and ultimately...
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Episode 93: Navigating Healthcare as a Patient Advocate
DiepCJourney Podcast
Patient advocacy shows up in so many meaningful ways, and my guest on this episode of the has been part of my own journey since the very beginning. We first connected back in 2015, when I was just starting to write my blog. She offered guidance, encouragement, and wisdom at a time when I was still finding my footing. I’ve followed her story ever since, and her voice has continued to inspire me and so many others. As a valued member of the DiepCJourney® community, it felt only natural to invite her to share her experience with all of you. I’m delighted to welcome Rebecca Hogue, Becky...
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Episode 92: Completion of Prophylactic Surgeries
DiepCJourney Podcast
Facing a genetic mutation that significantly increases the risk of breast cancer means making decisions that truly feel life‑defining. Today’s guest on the t, Emily Koellner, knows this experience intimately. With a strong family history of cancer, a mutation inherited from her father’s side, and the unwavering support of her two sisters and loved ones, Emily navigated her choices with courage and clarity. Many of you will remember my earlier interview with her sisters about their own prophylactic DIEP flap journeys. Now it’s Emily’s turn to share her perspective, her strength,...
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Episode 91: A Message of Kindness, Gratitude, and Courage
DiepCJourney Podcast
Hi listeners. It’s that time of year when we all take a few of those precious moments between the holidays and starting the New Year to look back, plan ahead, and savor those moments before heading back to work. This is the final of 2025 and I decided to go solo for the first time since beginning this podcast during the pandemic in January of 2021. Let’s take a look back at what we have provided courtesy of my outstanding guests. I always say, a podcast is only as good as its guests, and I am so lucky to have met them via my podcast and many I have met in person. When I had my in...
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Episode 90: Shared Decision-Making in Healthcare: Insights from Dr. C
DiepCJourney Podcast
We are diving into a conversation that’s close to my heart and vital to the breast cancer community. On this episode of the are going to talk about the term, shared decision-making as it pertains to healthcare and take a deeper dive into its use in breast cancer surgery and breast reconstruction with a returning guest . Dr. C is the CEO of , Director of Professional Relations & Global Partnerships at , Founder, , and creator of the . You may have heard previous interviews on the topic of shared decision-making with me and my guest. You may also have seen via our that we are...
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Episode 89: A Holistic Approach to Breast Reconstruction
DiepCJourney Podcast
What does it mean to truly heal after breast cancer? In this episode of the , we sit down with of Tucson Plastic Surgery to explore a holistic approach to breast reconstruction—one that goes beyond surgical technique to embrace emotional well-being, shared decision-making, and compassionate care. From honoring each patient’s story to integrating wellness into recovery, Dr. Kurtovic offers insights that empower survivors to reclaim their bodies and their confidence with grace. Dr. Silvia Kurtovic is part of the team of surgeons at . She works with performing a number of...
info_outlineHave you searched endlessly for days and weeks for a microsurgeon to perform breast reconstruction? Access to care is a real concern for patients who are affected by breast cancer. Finding a plastic surgeon who specializes in tissue reconstruction in the area you live in is not always a service afforded to all patients. Traveling for breast reconstruction is not out of the ordinary. It was something I did myself for my DIEP flap.
I want to bring awareness to microsurgical services in various geographic areas and interview surgeons to help patients who are looking for a reconstructive surgeon. I am introducing a new surgeon to our listeners. I hope this helps streamline the time you are taking during an already challenging time in your life.
Dr. Sarosh Zafar is a double board-certified microsurgeon in plastic and reconstructive surgery and general surgery. She specializes in the most advanced methods of breast reconstruction, complex reconstruction, and microsurgery. Dr. Zafar joined the team of pioneering surgeons at (CRBS) the Center for Restorative Breast Surgery and the St. Charles Surgical Hospital in 2021. She practices in the state of Louisianna but takes patients from across the U.S. and the world.
Dr. Zafar shares why she chose the field of plastic and reconstructive breast surgery. She tells us the services provided at CRBS highlighting the value of the co-surgeon model in breast reconstruction surgery. Dr. Zafar shares the pathways to find her services both at CRBS and IFAR (Institute for Advanced Reconstruction), part of the Advanced Reconstructive Surgery Alliance (ARSA) network of surgeons.
Her compassionate comment at the end of the podcast will benefit patients listening.
“If patients have any questions, never hesitate. That would be my number one message. Always ask. Always ask us for clarification. It can be a very confusing, intimidating process, but that’s what we’re here for to help figure everything out and help you get the best outcome that we can.”
Links to find Dr. Sarosh Zafar:
Center for Restorative Breast Surgery (CBRS)
The Institute for Advanced Reconstruction (IFAR)
(IFAR) Patient Portal to Schedule an appointment: tel:1-833-887-2417
Social Media Links for Dr. Sarosh Zafar:
Facebook: Center for Restorative Breast Surgery
Instagram: Breast Center NOLA