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Surgeon recommendations: How did you choose a surgeon?

Breast Cancer | Last Active: Oct 17, 2023 | Replies (58)

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@triciaot

I drove 3 1/2 hours to my cancer center, MD Anderson, in Houston. I think going to the Mayo Clinic would be worth the drive - it’s what 4 hours? A comprehensive cancer center can offer many benefits. One of which, the Mayo Clinic has a great reputation.
I stayed in a nearby Marriott hotel for appointments that I had to stay overnight, and before/after surgery. For some appointments I requested that they not be scheduled before 11:30 am and no later than 3 pm so I could drive in that morning and home before too late.
Radiation may be a week or it may be multiple weeks. My intermediate grade 1.6 cm DCIS, was a 3 hour outpatient BCS surgery (reduction in both breasts), 1 week radiation, and tamoxifen. I use the MyChart digital healthcare communication a lot, even sending photos of my breasts (after surgery) when I was concerned about red patches and wasn’t sure whether it was worth the drive to have the MD look at it. I’ve done a few video visits, one with the survivorship program, and regular follow ups with the rheumatologist about my osteoporosis.
Radiation can often be completed at a facility closer to your home. Your radiologist may have a some facilities that can provide what you need. I went to one of MD Anderson satellite sites. My sister in law in New Jersey, who drove in to Sloan Kettering Cancer center for care in NY, had her radiation near her home in NJ. West Palm Beach should have a quality radiation center that could carry out the prescribed therapy ordered by the Mayo Clinic.

I can’t tell you how my stress level was lowered once I contacted MD Anderson - they immediately started sharing with me what steps I needed to take to begin my journey. They provided me with options, we discussed the research behind some options (I like research, a comfort zone), and let me make the decisions.

I wish you well. Please let me know if you need more information that I can help with, or want to stay in contact.

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Thank you very much for your input. It's very helpful . Wishing you the best of health ! ❤️