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Breast Cancer Surgery Program

At the Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute, our breast surgeons focus solely on treating breast cancer and other breast conditions. This specialization gives us a depth of experience you won’t find at most hospitals. We also provide comprehensive support throughout your care, from diagnosis through recovery.
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855-776-4224

Call the Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute at 855-776-4224

8557764224

Leaders in breast cancer surgery

Our surgeons specialize in diagnosing and treating breast cancer and other breast conditions using the most advanced techniques available. In addition to performing the full range of surgical procedures, they’re also national leaders in nipple-sparing and preventive mastectomies. Through our clinical expertise and highly personalized care, our patients receive the best possible results.
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Part of the Cancer Institute
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Our approach to breast surgery

Your care team includes your surgeon, medical oncologist, and other providers involved in your treatment. You will meet with your team at your initial appointment and throughout treatment.
Breast surgery evaluation and diagnosis
Our diagnostic team uses the latest technology to provide the most accurate diagnoses. We specialize in minimally invasive, imaging-guided biopsies that remove as little breast tissue as possible. Our breast radiologists may also take a biopsy of your lymph nodes to see if cancer has spread.
Full spectrum of surgical treatments

Breast cancer surgeries include:

  • Lumpectomy
  • Mastectomy
  • Lymph node removal
  • Breast reconstruction surgery

We frequently combine lumpectomy with minimally invasive sentinel node biopsy, a technique we pioneered that reduces the risk of lymphedema and shoulder and arm problems.

Expertise in nipple-sparing surgery
Nipple-sparing mastectomy preserves the breast skin, nipple, and areola while removing all breast tissue. Our surgeons helped develop one of the country’s largest nipple-sparing mastectomy programs. During surgery, we test the tissue beneath your nipple to confirm it is free of cancer. This approach allows us to provide effective cancer treatment while supporting natural-looking results.
Leaders in breast reconstruction
Our surgeons perform a high volume of breast reconstruction procedures every year using the newest and most advanced techniques. We were one of the first programs to offer TRAM and TMG flap breast reconstructions. Sometimes reconstruction is done at the same time as a mastectomy or it can be done later as a separate surgery.
Comprehensive, postsurgical care

After your surgery, we provide:

  • Regular follow-up screenings
  • Additional treatments, if needed
  • Lymphedema screening and treatment
  • Physical therapy
  • Supportive and integrative care, including survivorship programs
Preventive breast cancer surgery
Some people who have a high risk of breast cancer choose to have a preventive (prophylactic) surgery. Risk may be related to family history or BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations. We’ll help you understand your risk level and discuss all your options. Genetic counseling and testing are also available for you and other members of your family.

Patient story

Spin instructor Katie’s journey through breast cancer treatment

Katie Britton took advantage of many services at the Cancer Institute to care for her mind and body during breast cancer treatment.
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Read Katie's story
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Cancer clinical trials and research

Our research is shaping the future of cancer care. We offer access to clinical trials and emerging therapies, including treatments that may not yet be widely available. Eligibility depends on a person’s diagnosis, treatment history, and more. Explore our research and clinical trials or talk with your care team to learn about available options.
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Explore our cancer research

Learn how cancer research informs patient care

https://research.massgeneralbrigham.org/en/institutes-centers/cancer-institute-research
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Search clinical trials
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Patient resources and support

We offer a range of resources to support patients and caregivers before, during, and after cancer treatment. These services address physical, emotional, and practical needs and are available alongside your medical care.
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View all patient resources
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Contact the Cancer Institute

Call us to speak with a team member who can help you understand your options and guide you to the care that is right for you. With locations throughout New England and support for patients traveling from outside the United States, we make it easier to access coordinated, expert care.
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phone
855-776-4224

Call the Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute at 855-776-4224

8557764224
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International Patient Services

Contact International Patient Services

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