Importance of Consulting a Plastic Surgeon Before Lumpectomy or Mastectomy

Mask Use: Please wear a mask that covers your nose and mouth in our office.
Bringing Guests: Only the patient, and a legal guardian for minors, should be present for their appointment.
Screening Questions: Our office will communicate with you beforehand to ask COVID-19 screening questions. When you arrive at our office, those questions will be asked again, and a baseline temperature will be taken.
Hand Sanitizer: We have hand sanitizer you will need to use before entering the office. This will also be available in the reception area and other places in the office for you to use as needed.
Call When You Arrive: Appointments will be managed to allow for social distancing between patients. Please call when you arrive and kindly wait in your car until we inform you to proceed to the office.

October 24, 2014

For anyone diagnosed with breast cancer, a coordinated surgical approach to lumpectomy or mastectomy that involves a plastic surgeon from the outset provides the best opportunity for achieving a good cosmetic result. Factors such as breast size, skin quality and possible chemotherapy or radiation play a significant role in selecting the type of breast reconstruction, as well as the timing of the procedure.

Planning and performing a delayed breast reconstruction has to be approached in a different manner than situations when the reconstruction is performed at the same time as the mastectomy or lumpectomy. For instance, if a patient has already undergone breast cancer surgery prior to consulting a plastic surgeon, the specific procedure performed (lumpectomy or mastectomy), skin quality, scars, and potential radiation treatment will further influence the reconstructive options available.

Ultimately, my advice is to seek a team of physicians who work together on a regular basis to care for breast cancer patients. Consult with a plastic surgeon regardless of your feelings about breast reconstruction, and know your options and potential limitations before undergoing a mastectomy or lumpectomy. Remember: You are the most important member of the team. Be proactive, ask questions, seek to understand, take your support team with you and remain hopeful and positive!

– Behzad Parva, MD

Contact Our Office
For information about lumpectomy, mastectomy and breast reconstruction options, please don’t hesitate to contact us today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Parva.

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