Questions to ask about breast reconstruction

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  • Are you a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons?
  • Have you been trained in breast reconstruction techniques?
  • What types of breast reconstructions do you perform?
  • How many years of experience do you have in breast reconstruction?
  • Which type of breast reconstruction do you advise would suit me best?
  • Why are other types of breast reconstruction not suited to my situation?
  • How much will the hospital, surgical, equipment and anaesthetic services cost?
  • How long will the surgery take?
  • How long will I need to stay in hospital?
  • How long will my recovery at home take and why?
  • What possible problems might occur with this type of breast reconstruction?
  • How will these problems be treated and how will this delay my recovery?
  • What kind of help will I need throughout my recovery?
  • How will my physical functioning be restricted during my extended recovery period?
  • How much time will I need to take off work (specify occupation)?
  • Will I still be able to attend to the needs of my children during my recovery (specify current parental role demands)?
  • Will I still be able to participate in sports/leisure activities following breast reconstruction (specify)?
  • How should I expect my reconstructed breast to look and feel?
  • What is expected of me to achieve the best possible results from this surgery?
  • Do you have any patients who have had preventative (prophylactic) breast reconstruction in a similar situation to me who may be willing to speak with me?
  • Do you have any photos of women who have had preventative (prophylactic) breast reconstruction?