- Why are you recommending this procedure?
- Would you recommend this to your mother, spouse, sister or daughter?
- What are the risks?
- How do they compare with the benefits?
- How do I prepare for surgery? What type of anesthesia will I have?
- What happens during and right after surgery?
- Who do I talk to about breast reconstruction?
- How long will I be in the hospital? Are there any complications?
- When can I go back to work and resume normal activities?
- What are the risks of lymphedema?
Before surgery, your surgeon should provide:
- Specific instructions to follow in the days before surgery
- An overview of the surgical procedures
- Information about recovery and follow-up care
After surgery, you should watch for complications such as infection or lymphedema, swelling in your arm or hand. Call your doctor immediately if you see signs of swelling, a build-up of fluid, redness or other symptoms of infection.