Why patients are referred
A surgical consultation can help clarify a breast finding and determine whether observation, additional imaging, biopsy, or surgery is appropriate.
Reasons for referral may include an abnormal mammogram or ultrasound, a breast lump, nipple changes or discharge, a biopsy result, a benign breast condition causing symptoms, ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), or breast cancer.
Understanding biopsy
A biopsy removes cells or tissue for examination by a pathologist. Needle biopsy is often used first for an abnormal finding. Surgical biopsy may be considered in selected situations, such as when more tissue is needed or imaging and biopsy findings do not match.
Bring your records
Prior mammograms, ultrasound or MRI reports, images, biopsy results, and family history can be important for planning.
Ask about the next step
Make sure you understand what the biopsy showed, whether more testing is needed, and when results will be discussed.
Surgical options
For breast cancer or DCIS, common operations include lumpectomy (breast-conserving surgery) and mastectomy. Surgery may also involve evaluation of nearby lymph nodes, often with sentinel lymph node biopsy. The appropriate plan depends on diagnosis, tumor size and location, imaging, breast size, genetic information when relevant, other treatments, and the patient's preferences.
Some benign conditions may be removed surgically because of symptoms, growth, uncertainty, or the nature of the pathology. Not every breast finding requires surgery.
Contact a healthcare professional promptly
New breast or underarm lumps, skin dimpling, new nipple inversion, bloody nipple discharge, or redness and swelling should be evaluated. Rapidly worsening redness, fever, or severe pain may require urgent care.
Planning individualized care
Breast cancer treatment may include more than surgery. Radiation, medication, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy, reconstruction, and genetic counseling may be part of a coordinated plan. Your care team will explain which options apply to your diagnosis.
Before surgery, ask about the extent of tissue removal, lymph node evaluation, possible need for additional surgery, appearance and sensation, recovery, and coordination with other specialists.
Questions to bring to your visit
- What does my imaging or biopsy result mean?
- Do I need more testing before deciding?
- What surgical choices are appropriate for me?
- Will lymph nodes need to be evaluated?
- Could I need additional surgery or treatment?
- Who else should be part of my care team?
Educational sources
National Cancer Institute: Understanding Breast Changes
National Cancer Institute: Breast Cancer Surgery
This page provides general education and does not replace individualized advice from your care team.