Valerie Gorman, MD, FACS released an article, “FAQs About Mastectomy” answering frequently asked questions about mastectomies. The purpose of this article is to help clear confusion on topics such as types of mastectomy, recovery after mastectomy, risks of mastectomy, and more to help patients with breast cancer.

Dr. Gorman and her team take a patient-centered approach, always taking care to answer their patients’ questions. Here she takes the chance to answer questions for more than just her own patients.

When asked about breast reconstruction, her article answers:

Not everyone has breast reconstruction after a mastectomy. For example, those having lumpectomies do not necessarily need one, because a majority of the breast tissue is left alone in the breast. With a mastectomy, reconstruction is more likely as all the tissue was removed. However, it really is up to the patient. Talk to your surgeon about your preferences so that they can be informed when discussing your options with you.

Dr. Gorman always encourages discussion and questions between doctor and patient to ensure full understanding on both sides. Another question she covers in her article is, “What do I ask my surgeon?” Rather than providing information, she provides a few questions to considers and encourages patients to come up with questions for themselves.

All patients should know what they are getting into, especially with breast cancer surgery, and “there really are no stupid questions. None. This is your surgery, you deserve to know about it […] Ask away”. If you have questions about mastectomies, Dr. Gorman may have answered them. But never be afraid to ask again.

Dr. Valerie J. Gorman serves at Baylor Scott and White Medical Center in Waxahachie as Chief of Surgery and Medical Directory of Surgical Services. She specializes in surgical oncology, specifically of the breast, and other surgical diseases. She is certified by the American Board of Surgery.

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