There are cases where telemedicine is not indicated

In times of the COVID-19 pandemic, telemedicine was approved as an emergency measure. However, the technology cannot always be applied.

In cases of skin cancer, the lesion may progress, increasing in size and sometimes even bleeding. In these situations, the specialist's approach is limited when the consultation is done via telemedicine, as a more detailed examination is needed to better understand the situation and propose treatment.

Despite the coronavirus, there are other diseases that cannot wait for the pandemic to end, such as breast cancer. Once the disease is diagnosed and mastectomy (breast removal) is indicated, surgery must happen as soon as possible. If the mastologist has already given approval for breast reconstruction, the two surgeries can be performed together.

Breast reconstruction is covered by the Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS) and health plans in Brazil, however, reconstruction, whether immediate or delayed, must be individualized, respecting the clinical conditions and treatment to which the patient will be submitted.

*Dr. Fernando Amato is a plastic surgeon, full member of the Sociedade Brasileira de Cirurgia Plástica, member of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS) and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS).