From gynecologic exams to mammograms, breast surgery and reconstruction to body-shaping procedures. These are just a few of the services at the newly renovated multispecialty women’s health center.
The caring and experienced team includes an obstetrics and gynecology (OB/GYN) surgeon, a breast surgeon, reconstructive surgeons, and women’s health and nurse navigators. Mercy Fitzgerald offers most women’s care in one convenient spot, a newly renovated space with a welcoming atmosphere and prompt appointments.
“We are right in the heart of our community,” says James Cosgrove, DO, an OB/GYN at Mercy Fitzgerald. “My goal is to be the go-to center for women’s services.”
Checkups to robotic surgery
Women can receive full-service gynecologic and breast care at Mercy Fitzgerald Hospital, including:
- Routine exams
- Mammograms
- Infertility evaluations
- Evaluations and treatments for conditions such as abnormal menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain and endometriosis
Many other services, from nutrition advice to incontinence care, are nearby. Should you need gynecologic surgery, Mercy Fitzgerald offers minimally invasive robotic surgery, including hysterectomy. Advantages of robotic surgery may include shorter hospital stays (often less than 24 hours), less bleeding, a more precise operation and less post-surgery pain.
Surgery that maintains health and restores wellness and appearance
The hospital is home to accomplished breast surgeon Karen Kish, MD, as well as highly trained plastic and reconstructive surgeons John Fernandez, MD, who also specializes in lymphedema, and Nathaniel Holzman, MD. A few of their services:
Breast health. Both women and men can develop breast cancer, as well as other noncancerous issues of the breast that require treatment. Noncancerous issues can include infections, abscesses, general pain and age-related changes. Mercy Fitzgerald offers a range of medical treatments and surgical options to address these conditions.
“We have a great team that includes all the doctors and technology needed to treat any breast condition that our patients may develop,” Dr. Kish says.
Breast reconstructive surgery. After a mastectomy or a lumpectomy, some women choose to have their breasts rebuilt. Drs. Fernandez and Holzman offer breast reconstruction with implants or a woman’s own tissue (taken from the belly, back, thigh or buttocks). Breasts formed from tissue tend to have a more natural feel. These surgeries can be done at the same time as breast cancer surgery or even years later.
Breast reconstruction can make the breasts more balanced, help clothes fit better and restore self-confidence. “Breast reconstruction can go a long way toward a breast cancer recovery,” Dr. Holzman says. And federal law generally requires health insurers to cover breast reconstruction.
Breast reduction surgery. Large breasts can sometimes cause chronic back or neck pain. Body contouring procedures. These include tummy tucks, breast lifts, and liposuction. Many women opt for these procedures as part of a “mommy makeover.” They can help restore a woman’s body to a pre-baby look.
Surgery to remove excess skin. This can help improve appearances after weight-loss surgery.
Other reconstructive surgeries. These procedures may be needed after things like skin cancer surgery or traumatic injuries.
Specialized lymphedema care
Lymphedema is a buildup of fluid in an arm or leg that can occur as a side effect of breast cancer treatment, for instance. This chronic, inflammatory condition can make the affected limb painful, tight and heavy.
For women with lymphedema whose symptoms aren’t relieved by nonsurgical methods, Mercy Fitzgerald offers surgical options. These procedures, performed by Dr. Fernandez, can either improve lymph fluid drainage or remove excess tissue that causes limb swelling.
“These surgeries can greatly improve symptoms and quality of life,” Dr. Fernandez says.