New Patients

A new lump requires further investigation. Start by making an appointment for evaluation, which starts with a thorough breast exam, and may then include an ultrasound evaluation in the office. We can then determine what type of additional imaging (mammogram, MRI, etc.) is necessary.  The lump may require a biopsy (see below).

We can typically solve the problem within one visit to the office.

When a screening mammogram shows an abnormality, additional imaging is needed to clarify.  Most abnormal mammograms will prove to be “okay” with additional imaging.  However, if the abnormality persists, that problem may require a biopsy.  At Breast Health Specialists, we can direct the additional imaging and biopsy, if necessary, in the most efficient, time saving way.

The simple fact is that all women are at risk for breast cancer, but of course, some at higher risk than others. The biggest factor affecting breast cancer risk is either having a family history of breast cancer or having a genetic mutation that predisposes you to develop breast cancer. However, simply having a relative with breast cancer or a genetic mutation does not mean that a woman is destined to develop breast cancer.

We use genetic testing and a careful review of your family tree to determine your specific risk for breast cancer. From there, we can advise on an appropriate plan for careful surveillance.

The word “biopsy” means “to sample”.  In other words, a lump or an area of breast tissue causing a mammographic abnormality should be “biopsied” or “sampled” to determine the cause of the lump or the mammographic change.  We can usually perform a biopsy with a special sampling needle, as an office procedure, in less than 15 minutes.  We do this with local anesthesia (we inject the area with Novocain to numb the tissue).  Occasionally, a biopsy requires an outpatient surgical procedure, where we sample/remove the breast tissue in the operating room.

We do not know what causes breast cancer. Though the research has progressed a great deal, the final answer about breast cancer cause is unknown. Suffice to say, when the answer is found, it will prove to be from a combination of many different factors.

Much has been written about hormones and breast cancer risk. Clearly, those women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer should not take hormones of any type. Though hormones statistically increase a woman’s risk of breast cancer, for most women, that increased risk is minimal. The advisability of taking hormones is an individual assessment that is influenced by family history and previous breast problems.

We will meet with you and appropriate family members to review your history, perform a complete exam, review your breast imaging, and occasionally perform ultrasound exams in the office.  We will then thoroughly discuss your situation, and together, devise a plan of action to most completely address your breast cancer treatment.

We can usually schedule surgery within a week of initial consultation.

We determine the need for chemotherapy only after all pathology reports are reviewed. Chemotherapy depends on evidence of breast cancer spread, or high risk of spread.

No.  Until the late 1970’s, a mastectomy was the only surgical option.  But currently, over 60% of breast cancer patients can have a “lumpectomy”, which preserves the breast.  We will review all surgical options, and together devise the appropriate treatment plan for you.

Since we do not know the cause of breast cancer, this question is somewhat difficult to answer.  Choosing the best surgical procedure for you is first and foremost.  Risk assessment, including family history review and genetic testing, is important.  We may recommend some medications that decrease the risk of a second breast cancer.  We will discuss risk reducing strategies during your consultation.