Ask an Expert is a free question-and-answer service about breast cancer and breast health that is available on weekends. If you'd like to ask a question or comment, please visit us again on Saturday or Sunday. In the meantime, please search the existing topics using the search tool at the top of the page. It's quite possible that one of our many existing topics already addresses your question.
If you would like a consultation with a breast specialist at the Johns Hopkins Avon Foundation Breast Center, call 443-778-2778. It is possible to get an appointment for a second opinion within a few days of contacting us.
We hope you find the information helpful!
| Forum | Questions | Ask a Question | |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
Mastectomy with Flap Reconstruction Questions about Mastectomy with Flap Reconstruction. |
1,010 |  |
| Asked | Publicly Submitted Question | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| 3/29/2012 | Hello! I have an appointment with Dr. Tsangris and Dr. Sacks on April 16th to discuss risk reduction bilateral masetomy with reconstruction. I leaning towards implants vs having a deip flap. Truthfully I am concerned how long I would be under anesthesia. I more concerned about waking up in the middle of my surgery. Can you give me an idea how long each surgery would be? This may help with my decision and with questions I may have during my visit. Thank you for all you do. | ||
| Replied | JHU's Breast Center Reply | ||
| 3/29/2012 | First, you are carefully monitored throughout your surgery. the length of time you are under isn't problematic. Its like an airplane- you want a good pilot doing the take off and the landing for you! our anesthesia team is terrific. no one has ever awakened during a case because of the monitoring being done. you are out!!! sleeping while they rebuild you. 3 hours usually for bil mast with tissue expanders. closer to 6-8 hours for bil mast with diep flaps. I personally am an anesthesia risk and had bil diep flap and would do it again in a heart beat. i hope to meet you when you come! focus on your long term goal.L | ||
Please note: This service is not intended to provide primary medical advice concerning specific medical care or treatment. Ask an Expert is a free service operated by health care professionals at the Johns Hopkins Avon Foundation Breast Center. Due to the volume of questions and their complexity, there are times when medical oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists or oncology nurses are consulted for their input. These individuals volunteer their time for this service and will respond as soon as they are able. Please do not post or send the same question to us in multiple locations or categories.