Preparing questions in advance can help patients have more meaningful discussions with their physicians regarding their conditions. Patients may wish to ask their doctor the following questions about lumpectomy:

1. Am I a candidate for a lumpectomy?
   
   
2. How much breast tissue will need to be removed?
   
   
3. Will the procedure be performed as outpatient surgery?
   
   
4. Will I be put to sleep or will it be done under local anesthesia?
   
   
5. How will you know if you have removed all of the cancer cells?
   
   
6. Will you perform another surgery if cancer cells are found?
   
   
7. Is there a chance I will need breast reconstructive surgery?
   
   
8. What type of lymph node sampling will you use?
   
   
9. When will I learn the results of the lymph node analysis?
   
   
10. What can I expect in terms of recovery from the procedure?
    
    
11. What signs indicated the need for medical attention?
    
    
12. How long will it take for my incisions to heal?
    
    
13. What are my restrictions following a lumpectomy?
    
    
14. What can I do to prevent lymphedema?
    
    
15. What cancer treatments will I need after surgery?
    
    
16. Is a lumpectomy as effective as a mastectomy for my cancer?
    
    
17. What are the chances that the cancer will return in my breast?
    
    
18. Do I have a greater chance of breast cancer recurrence with a lumpectomy?
    
    
19. How will I be monitored after my lumpectomy?
    
    
20. Can you recommend a support group?