Surgical oncologists specialize in the surgical treatment of many types of cancer. Surgical oncologists at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center and the University of Miami Health use years of rigorous surgical training to remove cancerous tissues and tumors while leaving as much healthy tissue intact as possible. Because surgery can be an effective treatment for cancer, most cancer patients will undergo some type of surgical treatment.

Our surgical oncologists provide advanced care for patients from around the globe with common and even rare, complex cancers. Our board-certified surgeons have an international reputation for compassionate, innovative care that helps improve patient outcomes. Each experienced surgeon has specialized expertise in different types of cancer, ensuring that you receive the surgical treatment that’s right for you.

Surgical oncologists treat a wide range of cancers, including:

• Breast cancer
• Gastrointestinal cancers
• Liver cancer
• Melanoma
• Primary peritoneal malignancies
• Skin cancer
• Soft tissue sarcoma

Types of cancer surgeries include:

• Bowel resection
• Limb-sparing surgery for soft tissue sarcomas
• Liver resection
• Lumpectomy
• Mastectomy
• Mohs surgery
• Intraperitoneal hyperthermic chemoperfusion (HIPEC)

How to Prepare for Surgery

Each surgery experience is different for every patient. Your surgeon’s office can help you prepare for surgery, understand what to expect, and access any information or resources you need. You can also prepare for surgery by following the general guidelines below.

For Outpatient Surgery

If you are returning home following your surgery, please bring:

• Your insurance cards and photo ID
• A list of all medications you are currently taking (including dosage) and any medication you may need to take during your visit
• Insurance referral and authorizations

Please arrive at the office before your scheduled surgery time to prepare for your surgery. You should also follow any instructions about drinking and eating that your surgeon provides. Your surgeon may also ask you to avoid taking certain medicines before your procedure.

You should bring a friend or family member with you to your surgery so they can drive you home and care for you after your procedure.

If you have any other questions about your procedure, please contact your surgeon’s office.

For Inpatient Surgery

If you are staying in the hospital after your surgery, please bring:

• Photo ID
• Insurance card and/or Medicare card (if applicable)
• List of allergies and current medicines
• Recent tests or physical exam reports
• Copies of your advance directive, living will, or power of attorney
• Containers for contact lenses, glasses, or dentures
• Toiletries and other personal items
• Magazine, book, or other reading materials

Please plan to wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that will fit over any bandages or splints.

Please leave all valuables (jewelry, credit cards, money) at home, including any body-piercing jewelry or tongue studs. You may not wear any jewelry during surgery.

You should not eat or drink before your surgery. Your surgeon will provide specific instructions. You may also need to avoid taking certain medicines before surgery.

Please arrange for someone to take you home after you are discharged from the hospital. You may need some to care for you as you recover.

Why Choose UHealth?

Improving the future of surgical care. We participate in the latest research and clinical trials, which help determine which surgeries work best for which patients. This research improves patient safety and quality of care while shaping the future of surgical treatment. Our surgeons have helped develop new procedures to treat a wide range of conditions, helping patients experience faster recoveries and fewer surgical risks.

A comprehensive team of surgeons. We provide advanced surgical care for many health problems — from heart conditions to cancer. You’ll receive care from a surgeon who has specialized experience and expertise in your specific condition, ensuring you receive the right care for your needs.

Leaders in robotic surgery treatment. The University of Miami Health is home to some of the world’s most experienced robotic surgeons. That’s why doctors from across the globe come to our facility to learn from our surgeons. We were the first academic medical center to use the da Vinci Xi robotic surgery system and complete more than 5,000 robotic surgeries — procedures that offer less pain and scarring and a faster recovery.