Your Journey

The consultation is an opportunity for the surgeon to get to know the patient, but also for the patient to get to know the surgeon. The most important thing is to be as open and honest as possible about what you are hoping for, so that the results that best suit your wishes can be achieved.

Do your research. Have a basic understanding of the available techniques and which one best suits what you are hoping to achieve. Different surgeons have different speciality skills. Explore what you want and whether the technique is suitable for you, then find the person who can carry that out. Ask questions in forums about other people’s experiences - this will give you a good frame of reference but be aware that your experience will be unique to you.

Once you have chosen your surgeon and you know their areas of expertise, ask direct questions relating to what you are hoping to achieve, that way the surgeon can focus all their attention on your specific needs, rather than spending the time speaking in more general terms.

You should be able to answer the following: What do you expect/want to be able to do after surgery that you cannot do now?

Patients can access an experienced aftercare team via the website and also within your aftercare pack.

The operation cannot happen immediately – We encourage people to reflect on the consultation to allow any questions to come up. It is important to note that you will not jeopardise the discussion by asking questions.

Yes. Family history is a good indicator of any potential future risks and as such it is really important that you share anything relevant, both about your own history in relation to your chest, and that of your family members.