I am a plastic surgeon who specializes in reconstruction after cancer surgery. I perform a broad range of reconstructive surgeries using a variety of techniques including microvascular free flaps, pedicled and local flaps, as well as implants. I also have a strong interest in breast reconstruction, and I am involved in a number of advocacy, outreach, and education initiatives for breast cancer survivors.
My main research interest lies in assessing health-related quality of life among oncology patients. With grant support from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, I have developed a questionnaire, the BREAST-Q, which measures satisfaction and quality-of-life outcomes among breast reconstruction patients. This questionnaire examines body image and psychological, social, sexual, and physical function, as well as satisfaction with the process of care.
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The BREAST-Q has been translated into 14 languages and widely adopted by other cancer centers as well as the National Health Service in Great Britain, which is using it in a national audit of mastectomy and reconstruction outcomes. (You can learn more about the BREAST-Q at www.BREAST-Q.org .)
I am also involved in research to measure patient expectations in breast reconstruction. This NIH-funded research is ultimately aimed at improving patient education and promoting shared medical decision making. At Memorial Sloan-Kettering new breast reconstruction patients routinely complete our “Expectations” questionnaire, which helps our team better understand and anticipate patients’ needs. In 2007, I was awarded Clinical Research Recognition Award by the American Society of Plastic Surgery. Currently, I am Chair of the Clinical Trial Committee of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and lead several multicenter studies evaluating outcomes in plastic surgery.
The nurses in our department offer an educational class on breast reconstruction options following a mastectomy, which is open to patients, families, and friends. For more information or to register, please see the event details .
