What does a Breast Surgeon do?
A breast cancer surgeon is a specialized physician who performs surgical procedures on the breast to remove tumor tissue while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. They play a central role in cancer treatment — from diagnosis and surgery to follow-up care.
What are the specific duties of a Breast Surgeon?
1. Diagnosis and Consultation- Reviewing and interpreting imaging studies such as mammography, ultrasound, and MRI
- Assessing biopsy results and tumor stages
- Informing and advising the patient about treatment options
- Participating in interdisciplinary tumor boards to plan individualized therapy
- Removing the tumor through breast-conserving surgery or mastectomy
- Performing lymph node removal or sentinel node biopsy to assess cancer spread
- Monitoring healing and detecting recurrences at an early stage
- Coordinating further treatments (e.g. chemotherapy, radiation, or hormone therapy) with other specialists
- Providing psychological support and counseling on reconstruction options
- Counseling and, if necessary, performing preventive surgery in patients with a genetically increased risk (e.g. BRCA mutation)
What Treatment Methods does a Breast Surgeon perform?
1. Breast-Conserving Surgery (BCS)
- The tumor is removed while preserving the remaining breast
- Often combined with radiation therapy to reduce the risk of recurrence
- Standard procedure for many patients
2. Mastectomy
- Removal of the entire breast
- Necessary in cases of large or multiple tumors, or a genetic predisposition
- Immediate or delayed reconstruction is possible
3. Lymph Node Removal / Sentinel Node Biopsy
- Examination to determine whether cancer cells have spread to the lymph nodes
- Gentle techniques are used to minimize side effects such as lymphedema
4. Reconstructive Surgery
- Breast reconstruction using implants or the patient’s own tissue
- Goal: a natural appearance and improved quality of life
5. Preventive Surgery
- Removal of breast tissue in cases of very high genetic risk before a tumor develops
- Part of a comprehensive risk-reduction strategy
What Education and Specialization should a good Breast Surgeon have?
- Medical degree – 6 years of medical studies leading to a doctorate in medicine
- Basic clinical training – approximately 9 months of foundational clinical experience across various specialties
- Specialist training – at least 6 years in a surgical specialty
- Subspecialization – focus on breast and tumor surgery, including oncoplastic and reconstructive techniques
- Observerships & Fellowships – additional practical experience in specialized centers
- Continuous education – regular participation in courses, conferences, and professional certification programs
Conclusion
A breast cancer surgeon plays a central role in modern cancer therapy. They are a specialist, surgeon, and companion throughout the treatment journey. Precise surgical techniques improve the chances of recovery while preserving the patient’s quality of life. The surgeon ensures that the cancer is treated effectively, with the patient’s physical and emotional well-being always at the center of care.
„The surgical treatment of breast cancer requires not only precision but also empathy and an aesthetic sense.”
Prof. Dr. Fitzal, breast surgeon & breast cancer expert in Vienna