Are you newly diagnosed and trying to weigh the pros and cons of lumpectomy vs. mastectomy? Maybe you didn’t have a choice, and want to understand more about your surgery. Or maybe you’re considering reconstruction.

It would be nice to sit down with your oncologist or breast surgeon to go over all the details of the procedures. However, sometimes there just isn’t time. And sometimes you can’t think of the right questions to ask.

Not Enough Time to Discuss a Lumpectomy vs. Mastectomy With Your Oncologist?

Well, we can help!

We recently interviewed Dr. Sarah McLaughlin, a breast surgical oncologist and associate professor of surgery at Mayo Clinic in Florida. She’s also the medical director of the Jacoby Center for Breast Health in Jacksonville, Florida.

Our lovely podcast host, Robin Gardner, cut to the chase. She managed to ask Dr. McLaughlin a number of very probing questions. Here’s a summary of what was revealed over the three-part series:

Summary of Lumpectomy vs. Mastectomy Interview

First of all, Dr. McLaughlin explains the difference between lumpectomy and mastectomy. She talks about situations where one is preferable. Furthermore, she discusses the possibility of recurrence with each type. Listen below.

In part two, Dr. McLaughlin outlines the differences between simple and total mastectomy. Including skin-sparing and nipple-sparing procedures. She talks about surgery length and recovery. In addition, she discusses some types of reconstruction and describes possible side effects. Listen below.

Finally, in part three, Dr. McLaughlin explains more about the decision-making process. For example, did you know that whether you have surgery now or two weeks from now usually won’t affect the result? She also talks about working with your medical team in part three. Listen below.

In conclusion, how often do you get a chance to talk with one of the top breast cancer specialists in the world? Moreso, if you did, would you know what to ask? This is about the closest you can get to having that discussion. We thoroughly hope that you enjoy this podcast series. If you want to hear more, you can visit our podcast page.

Check out this series and all of our podcasts here at itunes, here at Google Play, or here at Stitcher. Join our conversation on Facebook, or check out our Pinterest and Instagram sites. Take care!