Hearing that something looked unusual on a mammogram or receiving a breast cancer diagnosis can stop you in your tracks. It’s a moment filled with questions and, often, fear. That’s where a breast surgical oncologist steps in. Our role isn’t limited to surgery.

At Western Surgical Care, we’re here to walk alongside patients through each part of the process—from diagnosis to decisions about treatment. We take time to explain the options, answer questions, and make sure you feel fully supported as both a patient and a person.

Early Detection: Why Timing Matters

Breast cancer is often more treatable when caught early. That’s why routine screenings, such as mammograms, are so important. If something looks unusual, your doctor may recommend more detailed imaging, like an ultrasound or MRI. If questions remain, the next step is usually a biopsy. This involves removing a small tissue sample to be examined under a microscope.

At this stage, a breast surgical oncologist is often brought in to review the findings and explain their meaning. If surgery or further treatment is needed, we help map out the next steps clearly and quickly, reducing the stress that comes with uncertainty.

Surgery That Treats Cancer While Respecting Your Goals

Every person’s situation is unique. Surgical treatment depends on several factors, including the size and location of the tumor and your personal preferences. When the tumor is small, a lumpectomy may be an option. This procedure removes the cancerous lump and a small margin of tissue, leaving most of the breast intact.

In other cases, a mastectomy, or complete removal of breast tissue, might be the most appropriate route. Whenever possible, we use skin-sparing or nipple-sparing techniques. These methods help maintain the natural look of the breast and are especially helpful if you’re considering reconstruction.

During surgery, many patients also have a sentinel lymph node biopsy. This test helps us check whether cancer has spread by removing and examining the first few lymph nodes that drain from the breast. It gives us essential information while avoiding more invasive procedures.

If reconstruction is part of your plan, we work closely with plastic and reconstructive surgeons to make sure it’s built into your treatment timeline, not added later as an afterthought.

Thinking Ahead: Understanding and Reducing Risk

Not everyone who sees a breast surgical oncologist has cancer. Some people come to us because of a family history or a known genetic mutation like BRCA1 or BRCA2, which increases the risk of developing breast cancer.

In those cases, we often begin with genetic counseling to help clarify your risk and discuss your options. This might include more frequent imaging or, for some, considering a preventive mastectomy to lower the chances of cancer developing. These are deeply personal choices; we’re here to help you navigate them with information, guidance, and no pressure.

Care That’s Connected and Collaborative

Breast cancer treatment often involves more than one specialist. That includes medical oncologists managing chemotherapy, radiologists interpreting imaging, and plastic surgeons handling reconstruction.

One of our goals is to make sure these different parts of your care are well-coordinated and easy to follow.

Ready to Talk?

If you’ve had an abnormal result, are exploring surgery options, or want to understand your risk better, we’re here to help. There’s no rush, just open conversation and experienced care from a team that listens.

Schedule a consultation with a breast surgical oncologist at Western Surgical Care. Let’s discuss your questions and determine the next step together.