About Breast Center Surgery

Surgery is the most common treatment for breast cancer, and there are several types of surgery. The physician can explain each type, discuss and compare their benefits and risks, and describe how each will affect your appearance. Before surgery or upon initial symptoms, there are different types of procedures your physician may request. Listed below are these procedures, including preparations:

Diagnostic Procedures

Surgery

Listed below are the different types of surgical procedures done by the Saul and Joyce Brandman Breast Center - A Project of Women's Guild,  followed by the preparation for the procedures:

  • Lumpectomy/Segmental Mastectomy
  • Modified Radical Mastectomy
  • Radical (Halsted) Mastectomy
  • Skin-Sparing Mastectomy

Questions to Ask before Your Surgery

  • What kinds of surgery can I consider? Is breast-sparing surgery an option? Which operation do you recommend for me? What are the risks of surgery?
  • Should I store some of my own blood in case I need a transfusion?
  • Do I need my lymph nodes removed? How many? Why? What special precautions will I need to take if lymph nodes are removed?
  • How will I feel after the operation?
  • Will I need to learn how to do special things to take care of myself or my incision when I get home?
  • Where will the scars be? What will they look like?

What to Do before Surgery

  • You cannot eat or drink anything after midnight on the night before your procedure.
  • If you have special needs, please ask.
  • You must arrange to have someone drive you home after your procedure.
  • You may need to have a blood test done (several days before your procedure).
  • You may need to see your internist or cardiologist for a pre-operative check-up.
  • You may need to check with your physician if you are taking medications regularly. It is helpful if you bring a list of all medications with you on the day of your procedure.

What to Do on the Day of Surgery

  • Do not wear makeup, nail polish, jewelry, or contact lenses.
  • Wear loose comfortable clothing that is easy to change. Wear comfortable shoes, or slippers.
  • Do not eat or drink anything.
  • You may shower and brush your teeth in the morning, but try not to swallow any water.
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