Questions in preparation for the plastic surgeon

The days are getting to be short now - it is Friday today and Monday I see the plastic surgeon.  It is apparent now that his job is the most significant because that is what will impact your life most.  I see the questions below are what I am suppose to ask. 

Some thought that had being crossing my mind lately - I have considered if God is in control of everything – which we know that is true –  should one not rest in letting it go it way  - to be try and defy death with all our medical tricks?

I am truly blessed in the sense that there is no expectation for me to have to do chemo.

Question to ask the Plastic Surgeon

Can I have breast reconstruction?    YES

· When can I have reconstruction done?

· What types of reconstruction could I have?  IMPLANTS

· What’s the average cost of each type? Will my insurance cover them? 

MY OUT OF POCKET LIMIT

· What type of reconstruction do you think would be best for me? Why?

· How many of these procedures have you (plastic surgeon) done?  THAT IS ALL HE DOES

· What results can I expect?

· Will the reconstructed breast match my other breast?

· How will my reconstructed breast feel to the touch?

· Will I have any feeling in my reconstructed breast?

· What possible problems should I know about?

· Will there be pain, scars, or other changes in the parts of my body the tissue is taken from (if

using a tissue flap)?

· How much discomfort or pain will I feel?

· How long will I be in the hospital?

· Will I need blood transfusions? If so, can I donate my own blood?

· How long will it take me to recover?

· What will I need to do at home to care for my incisions (surgical wounds)?

· Will I have a drain (tube that lets fluid out of the wound) when I go home?

· How much help will I need at home to take care of my drain and wound?

· When can I start my exercises and work?

· How much activity can I do at home?

· What do I do if my arm swells (this is called lymphedema)?

· When will I be able to go back to normal activities such as driving and working?

· Can I talk with other women who have had the same surgery?

· Will reconstruction interfere with chemotherapy?

· Will reconstruction interfere with radiation therapy?

· How long will the implant last?

· What kinds of changes to the breast can I expect over time?

· How will aging affect the reconstructed breast?

· What happens if I gain or lose weight?

Will they complete my FMLA form?