Which specialist treats breast cancer?

A breast surgeon examines the breast and nearby lymph nodes, arranges tissue sampling and discusses surgery when it is appropriate. A pathologist identifies the tumour type and checks features that guide treatment. A medical oncologist considers medicines such as chemotherapy, hormone treatment or targeted treatment. A radiation oncologist advises about radiotherapy after surgery or for selected areas of disease. A breast radiologist interprets mammograms, ultrasound or other imaging. Genetic counselling may be offered when personal or family history suggests a BRCA gene mutation could affect care or relatives. The team reviews the findings together so treatment is based on the tumour’s features and the person’s preferences.

Ask your doctor for referral to a breast clinic or breast-cancer team. Take previous breast images, reports, medication details and family cancer history. Ask whether a breast lump, armpit lump or breast skin changes need imaging and a biopsy. If cancer is confirmed, ask who will coordinate your care, whether lymph nodes need assessment, and whether genetic counselling or a second opinion would be useful before treatment begins.

Arrange prompt medical review for a new breast lump, a lump in the armpit, persistent nipple changes, unexpected discharge, skin dimpling, redness or a change in breast shape. These findings can have non-cancer causes, but they should be examined rather than self-diagnosed. Seek urgent help for severe pain with fever, rapidly increasing swelling, heavy bleeding after a procedure or breathing difficulty.

Ask which specialist is leading your care, what the biopsy and receptor results show, whether lymph nodes are involved, and how surgery, chemotherapy or radiotherapy would fit together. Discuss breast-conserving surgery versus other surgical options, reconstruction, genetic testing, fertility or menopause concerns, and the symptoms that require a same-day call after treatment.