Bernadette Wegenstein's documentary focuses on a breast surgeon and four of her patients. Lauren Schnaper of the Great Baltimore Medical Center avoids jargon in favor of plain talk. Although she has a sense of humor (her surgical headpiece is studded with rhinestones), she rejects hugs, insisting on handshakes instead. Two of her patients have had mastectomies; two others will undergo the procedure during filming. Instead of making decisions for them, Schnaper provides her patients with the information they need to make their own. She believes that there is too much breast cancer screening, and that too many women have unnecessary mastectomies. Doris, who underwent a partial mastectomy, meets with Schnaper about a prophylactic (or preventative) mastectomy. The doctor doesn't believe this will prevent recurrence, but she's sympathetic to Doris's desire for a more symmetrical appearance, so she performs the operation, which then leads to reconstruction, but complications ensue and the ordeal has an adverse effect on Doris's relationship with her boyfriend. Former model Shelia relies on her faith as she undergoes a mastectomy. While her cancer is aggressive, she maintains a positive attitude, but it returns after surgery, necessitating further treatment. Carol also stays upbeat, aided by a husband who supports her every step of the way. Debra, who had a bilateral mastectomy, returns to the clinic with concerns about discomfort that Schnaper's colleague is able to assuage. Wegenstein also films a trip to Sicily to observe a feast in honor of Saint Agatha, the patron saint of breast cancer patients. An informative documentary that also personalizes a devastating subject in women's healthcare, this is recommended. Aud: C, P. (K. Fennessy)
The Good Breast
(2016) 94 min. DVD: $298. Icarus Films. PPR. Closed captioned. Volume 31, Issue 6
The Good Breast
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