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| Find a Surgeon |  Breast reconstruction is extremely specific surgery. Surgeons who succeed this type of breast surgery can be breast oncology surgeons or plastic surgeons. Some surgeons are qualified in both these specialties and are known as oncoplastic surgeons. Some reconstruction operations require surgeons who are trained in microsurgery, and it can sometimes be hard to find people trained in these techniques. You may need to go to a hospital some distance from your home to have this type of specialist surgery.
To find a surgeon who is practiced in the exacting type of reconstruction most suitable for you, you can ask your breast cancer surgeon if there is anyone in your hospital who makes breast reconstruction. If there is not, your surgeon may to advise another doctor in your area. It may be hard to get a recommendation to a breast surgeon with expertise in this type of surgery because only a restricted number of surgeons in this country make breast reconstruction operations.
Before you go to visit a reconstructive surgeon, it may help you to ask your breast surgeon about the reconstructive surgeon's experience, qualifications and reputation in breast reconstruction surgery.
It is significant that both surgeons are responsive to your thoughts and feelings about having breast reconstruction.
Some Questions to Ask Your Surgeon
- What type of reconstruction surgery would you suggest me? Why?
- What are the risks and benefits of this type of surgery?
- When I will be ready to have a surgery?
- Where can I have this surgery?
- Who can make this type of surgery?
Questions for the Reconstruction Surgeon
- What is your experience in this type of surgery?
- What should I expect my reconstructed breast to look and feel like?
- What will the scar(s) be like?
- How long will I need to stay in hospital?
- How long will it take me to get well?
- What do I need to do to make sure I have a good recovery?
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