Your treatment plan depends on several factors. However, deciding on a treatment is a personal matter, and should be determined by you and your physician together. The type of treatment you decide on should be based on the risks and benefits and how they relate to your own values and lifestyle. Download the Questions Here.
What are my treatment options? What do you recommend for me and why?
What’s your opinion about breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy) followed by radiation therapy? Is this treatment right for me? (If considering this option, you should consult with a radiation oncologist)
What is a sentinel node biopsy? Will I have this done? And how accurate is a sentinel lymph node biopsy in my case?
Will I need more treatment after my surgery? If so, will you refer me to a radiation oncologist for radiation therapy and a medical oncologist to discuss the need for chemotherapy or hormonal therapy
Can breast reconstruction be done at the time of the surgery, as well as later?
If I choose not to have reconstruction, what can I do? What types of breast prostheses are available?
How long do I have to make a treatment decision?
What will my insurance cover?
Is there a clinical trial for patients with my type of breast cancer? If so, how can I learn more?
What are activities or things I should avoid during cancer treatment?
It is important to include additional questions you may have that are specific to you. Selecting a treatment can be overwhelming, so ask your physician to explain all options until you completely understand everything available to you.