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Differences in surgical recommendations?

Page last modified on: September 30, 2008
Question from Bev Nurse: I'm confused. My HMO recommends a modified radical mastectomy with radiation followed by delayed reconstruction (six months to a year). An outside breast surgeon at the nearest breast cancer center recommends a simple mastectomy and axillary dissection with immediate reconstruction (my choice is DIEP) followed by radiation. Why the disparity in recommendations?
Answer —Carolyn Chang, M.D.: There are often multiple ways to treat breast cancer. If someone is unsure about the recommendations that they're getting, and if they have the luxury of a little bit of time, a third opinion would not be unheard of. Because whatever treatment they decide to do, they need to be comfortable that they're making the right decision.

On Wednesday, April 20, 2005, our Ask-the-Expert Online Conference was called Reconstruction and Safe, Sexy Cosmetics. Carolyn C. Chang, M.D., Anna-Dee Rinehart, S.C.S., and moderator Lillie Shockney, R.N., B.S., M.A.S. answered your questions about reconstructive surgery and safe, sexy cosmetics.

The materials presented in these conferences do not necessarily reflect the views of breastcancer.org. A qualified healthcare professional should be consulted before using any therapeutic product or regimen discussed. All readers should verify all information and data before employing any therapies described here.

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Meet the Experts

Carolyn C. Chang, M.D. is a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in breast reconstruction after mastectomy, TRAM flap reconstruction, and implant reconstruction.

Anna-Dee Rinehart S.C.S. is a nurse-aesthetician, aesthetic instructor, and director of education for Austin Medical Aesthetics in Austin, Texas.

Lillie Shockney, RN., BS., M.A.S.Lillie Shockney, R.N., B.S., M.A.S. is the administrative director of the Johns Hopkins Avon Foundation Breast Center.

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