10 Questions to Ask the Breast Cancer Surgeon

1. Why are you recommending this procedure?
2. What are the risks? How do they compare with the benefits?
3. How do I prepare for surgery?
4. What type of anesthesia will I have?
5. What happens during and right after surgery?
6. Who do I talk to about breast reconstruction?
7. How long will I be in the hospital?
8. Are there any complications?
9. When can I go back to work and resume normal activities?
10. What are the risks of lymphedema?

Before surgery, your surgeon should provide:

• Specific instructions to follow in the days before surgery
• An overview of the surgical procedures
• Information about recovery and follow-up care

After surgery, watch for complications such as infection or lymphedema, swelling in your arm or hand. Call your doctor immediately if you see signs of swelling, a build-up of fluid, redness or other symptoms of infection.

Also see:
Breast-Conserving Surgery
Mastectomy
Lymph Node Biopsies