Frequently Asked Questions

To maximize the clinical value of our first meeting, I require patients to provide all relevant medical records, previous operative reports, and diagnostic imaging (such as biopsies, labs, X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, EMG nerve studies, etc) prior to the appointment. I conduct a rigorous review of these diagnostics alongside a thorough physical examination to accurately diagnose your condition and determine the precise surgical modalities required for your recovery. I am constantly in direct contact with referring providers and other surgeons to make sure your treatment is both appropriate and expedited to help provide optimal outcomes.

Everyday I spend time discussing patient care in both the acute and outpatient setting to facilitate streamlined care and improve outcomes. Comprehensive reconstructive care frequently requires a multidisciplinary approach. I routinely collaborate directly with breast oncologists, surgical oncologists, dermatologists, orthopedic surgeons, otolaryngologists, neurosurgeons, neurologists, general surgeons, gynecologists, anesthesiologists, and referring physicians to coordinate complex treatment timelines. My former chairman in training used to jokingly refer to plastic surgery as the "Center of the Surgical Universe." Thankfully, through my relationships with other care teams, we practice at the highest levels of this motto. This clinical integration allows for seamless surgical planning, enabling immediate reconstruction following cancer excision and ensuring comprehensive management of often incredibly challenging problems.

Patient safety and comfort are my primary clinical objectives. I implement a rigorous, evidence-based, multi-modal pain control protocol for all surgical procedures. By strategically combining non-opioid analgesics, targeted local anesthetics, and regional nerve blocks, and multi-modal pharmaceutical approaches, I systematically reduce post-operative discomfort. No pain is ever zero. The goal is often a manageable 2-3 out of 10 for both safety and improved surgical outcomes. This advanced surgical approach provides superior pain relief, significantly reduces reliance on traditional narcotic medications, and accelerates the early phases of the recovery process. Much of my prior research has focused on risk mitigation and patient safety in post-operative pain control.^1,2,3,4,5

I'm constantly asked if there are "one-size fits all" surgical solutions to some very complex issues. Fortunately and unfortunately, no two situations are ever the same. I tailor each surgical intervention and post-operative rehabilitation plan to the individual patient. During your comprehensive clinical evaluation, I assess your specific anatomical structure, functional deficits, socioeconomic challenges, and personal lifestyle goals to design a customized reconstructive pathway. This bespoke approach ensures the highest probability of optimal aesthetic and functional restoration.

Nothing replaces a full surgical consultation, but many of the services and operations websites have a wealth of information on specific issues. Also, try my blog to find even more. Great resources can also be found at ASPS (American Society of Plastic Surgeons), Susan G Komen, Cancer.gov, and many other resources. In Austin, the BCRC website is a great resource!