What questions should I ask my surgeon before breast cancer surgery?

Questions to ask your breast surgeon before your first surgery

• Are you board-certified?
• Do you specialize in this type of surgery?
• How many operations like the one I am considering have you performed?
• Do I need any other tests before this surgery?
• Am I a candidate for a lumpectomy?
• Do I need a mastectomy?

Should I have a mastectomy for invasive ductal carcinoma?

Most women with DCIS or breast cancer can choose to have a mastectomy. A mastectomy may be a better choice for you if: You have small breasts and a large area of DCIS or cancer. You have DCIS or cancer in more than one part of your breast.

How long after breast cancer diagnosis is surgery?

24.9\% had surgery 31 to 60 days after diagnosis. 4.1\% had surgery 61 to 90 days after diagnosis. 1\% had surgery 91 to 120 days after diagnosis. 0.5\% had surgery 121 to 180 days after diagnosis.

What questions should I ask my doctor after mastectomy?

After treatment

• Will I need a special diet after treatment?
• Are there any limits on what I can do?
• Am I at risk for lymphedema?
• What can I do to reduce my risk for lymphedema?
• What should I do if I notice swelling in my arm?
• What other symptoms should I watch for?
• What type of follow-up will I need after treatment?

How safe is mastectomy?

Two studies confirm that outpatient mastectomy is safe and results in high patient satisfaction. Researchers at Kaiser Permanente looked at 403 outpatient mastectomy procedures and found no difference in emergency department use, hospital readmission, or reoperation in the outpatient versus inpatient patients.

How long does it take to schedule a mastectomy?

Your first appointment after surgery will usually be within 1 to 2 weeks after you leave the hospital. Your nurse will give you instructions on how to make this appointment, including the phone number to call.

How long is chemo after mastectomy?

Doctors recommend starting treatment as soon as possible after breast cancer is diagnosed. Timely treatment reduces the risk that the cancer will spread and increases the chances for survival.

What questions should I ask an oncologist?

7 Key Questions to Ask Your Oncologist

• Where and when do you recommend getting a second opinion?
• What can I do to preserve my fertility?
• Is a clinical trial right for me?
• What should I do if I’m simply having trouble coming to grips with my diagnosis?
• What is the goal of my treatment?
• What will my treatment cost?