Lumpectomy, also called breast-conserving surgery, is the treatment to remove cancer or other abnormal tissue in the breast. The breast surgeons in London will also remove the healthy tissue surrounding the cancer in order to ensure that all of the abnormal tissue is removed. In this operation, only a portion of the breast is removed, unlike mastectomy. The procedure is also seen as a treatment option for early-stage breast cancer as it is also used to rule out a cancer diagnosis. If the surgery removes the tumour, it is followed by radiation therapy to reduce the chances of it returning. Here are some steps to follow before you undergo a lumpectomy.
The first step would be meeting your surgeon a few days before your lumpectomy surgery to clarify the list of questions you might help with. Make sure that your list covers everything related to the procedure, and try to understand it and the associated risks. The breast surgeons in London will give you pre-surgical restrictions. Since the surgery is usually done as an outpatient procedure, you may be allowed to go home the same day.
Stop taking medicines like aspirin, blood-thinning medications, and vitamin E at least a week or longer before surgery to reduce the risk of bleeding. Inform your doctor about any medication, vitamins or other supplements you might be taking so that nothing interferes with the surgery. Ensure you bring a list of all the medicines, prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, herbs and minerals. Also, avoid consuming fish oil and herbs like garlic, ginkgo biloba, ginseng and St. John’s Wort.
Also, check in with your insurance company to confirm whether the procedure is covered or if there are any restrictions. Avoid eating or drinking 8 to 12 hours before the process, especially if you are under general anaesthesia.
It is better to have some company when coming in for the surgery as a support pillar. The person may also be needed to drive you home and listen to post-operative instructions as you will be under the effects of anaesthesia, and it may take several hours for it to wear off.
You will have a physical check-up, along with some blood tests. Before the surgery, the doctor may check your medical history to see if you have sleep apnea, any allergies, problems with anaesthesia, and also if you have any pacemaker, automatic implantable cardioverter-defibrillator or other heart devices. The preoperative process will also comprise mammography, urinalysis, clip placement to identify the tumour site, and ECG if the patient is over 50 years.
Since the surgery will be done under general anaesthesia, the risk of blood clots is very low. The risk will depend on the time that your surgery takes and your personal medical history. The medical team will place support on your legs, and you will be asked to walk soon after your surgery in order to prevent blood clots.
Summing Up
These are the most important things to be followed before you go in for a lumpectomy operation. Strictly following these tips will help you reduce the risk of any complications and shorten your recovery time.
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