Cosmetic Breast Surgery: A Complete Guide to Making the Right Decision From A to Double D;Robert M. Freund, MD, FACS, with Alexander Dyne; 2004; Marlowe and Co, New York; 210 pages.

It was with great interest that I read Cosmetic Breast Surgery by Dr. Robert M. Freund. As a registered nurse working in a plastic surgery department where countless breast procedures are performed, I found the book to contain valuable information. Dr. Freund is upfront and honest regarding aspects that patients should consider. He dispels the myths and untruths sometimes perpetuated by the wealth of information and misinformation available on the Internet.

From selecting the right plastic surgeon to discussing the ethics of breast surgery, he presents the material without being arrogant or condescending. Dr. Freund's descriptions of procedures are technical and, although easily appreciated by professionals in the surgical field, go far beyond the average person's comprehension. The typical breast procedure patients may not want this much information or honesty about their pending operation.

In my position, I have the opportunity to care for breast surgery patients in the preoperative and recovery areas, as well as in the operating room. I have also had breast surgery myself. Having worked privately for a plastic surgeon, I was able to follow patients through the entire continuum of consultation, surgery, recovery, and discharge. I found the information given in this book to be consistent with our guidelines of practice.

-Margo M. Bloomberg, RN, AEMT/IC

Clinical Nurse II, William Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak, Michigan