Before you have any surgery, your surgeon will explain the aims of the surgery to you. They will usually ask you to sign a form saying that you give your permission (consent) for the surgery to be done. Before you are asked to sign the form you should have been given full information about:

• the type and extent of the surgery you are advised to have
• the advantages and possible disadvantages of the surgery
• any possible other types of surgery that may be suitable for you
• any significant risks or side effects of the surgery.

If you do not understand what you have been told, let the staff know straight away so that they can explain again. Some types of surgery are complex, so it is not unusual for people to need repeated explanations.

It is often a good idea to have a friend or relative with you when the surgery is explained, to help you remember the discussion more fully. You may also find it useful to write down a list of questions before you go to your appointment.

Patients often feel that the hospital staff are too busy to answer their questions, but it is important for you to be aware of how the treatment is likely to affect you. Your surgeon and the breast care nurse should be willing to make time for you to ask questions.

You can always ask for more time to decide about the surgery if you feel that you can’t make a decision when it is first explained to you.