Selecting My Physicians
After you have received your initial diagnosis, you will be referred to a surgeon who will remove the cancer tissue (this could be a general surgeon, a surgical oncologist or gynecologic surgeon). If you are interested in learning about your reconstructive options, make sure a plastic or reconstructive surgeon is included on your medical team at the earliest opportunity.
Following your initial consultation, you should make the time to do your own research, both on the different procedures but also on the right surgeon to perform your procedure. Whether you ultimately choose the plastic or reconstructive surgeon you were referred to by your medical team or one that you have found through your own research, he or she should be an experienced reconstructive surgeon. Your surgeon should be board-certified and should operate only in fully-accredited facilities.
Open and honest communication between you and your medical team, including your reconstructive surgeon, regarding your goals and concerns is essential.
Your doctors and rest of the medical staff will serve as your guides at all times during the experience. Your doctors should make sure that you receive all appropriate consent forms and instructions on pre- and post-operative care in advance of the surgery.