Once you have been given the devastating news that breast cancer surgery is necessary, many questions begin to fill your mind. Write down questions to ask your doctor before having breast cancer surgery so you can be well-informed about the surgery and what will come next.
First Question to Ask
The very first question you should ask is what type of breast cancer surgery your doctor is recommending. There are several options, depending on the severity, location and size of the cancer and your desire for reconstructive surgery.
For example, a lumpectomy is when the lump and immediate surrounding tissue are removed. A mastectomy is the removal of a larger portion of the breast tissue. When the entire breast is removed, this is called a total mastectomy. A modified radical mastectomy is when all the breast tissue and the nipple are removed. A radical mastectomy is the removal of the entire breast, along with the nipple, lymph nodes and chest muscles below the breast.
Preparation for Surgery
As you prepare mentally for the idea of having surgery, consider asking your doctor the following questions:
How do I prepare for surgery?
What type of anesthesia will be used?
How long is the surgery?
What happens during the surgery?
Where will the incision be and how big?
Other Important Questions
Being knowledgeable about the surgery and its aspects may help relieve some of your worries and stress. Try to ask your doctor as many questions as possible to fully prepare yourself for the process you are about to begin. These include:
What are the risks and benefits of the surgery?
Should I start chemotherapy before surgery?
Will other treatments be necessary after surgery?
What are the risks of subsequent surgeries or of the cancer returning?
Will insurance pay for the surgery?
Post-Surgery
You will also want to know about your recovery process once the surgery is finished. For example, ask your doctor the following questions:
Will physical therapy be necessary?
How long will it take to recover and return to normal activities?
What other follow-up care will be needed?
Tags: your doctor, breast cancer, breast cancer surgery, cancer surgery, surgery What, about surgery, breast tissue
