Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women in Australia. While a diagnosis can feel overwhelming, advances in screening, diagnosis, and treatment mean outcomes continue to improve,  particularly when care is planned thoughtfully and early.

At Darling Downs Surgical Oncology, breast cancer care is centred on clear communication, patient choice, and subspecialist surgical expertise, supporting patients from diagnosis through treatment and recovery.

Breast cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably within the breast tissue. It can develop in different parts of the breast, most commonly in the milk ducts or lobules.

Breast cancer is not a single disease, there are different types and subtypes, each behaving differently and requiring individualised care.

In most cases, there is no single identifiable cause. Breast cancer develops due to a combination of factors, including:

• Increasing age
• Family history or genetic factors
• Hormonal influences
• Lifestyle and environmental factors
   

Importantly, many people diagnosed with breast cancer have no known risk factors.

Breast cancer may not always cause symptoms, particularly in early stages. Possible signs include:

• A new lump or thickening in the breast or underarm
• Changes in breast size, shape, or contour
• Skin changes such as dimpling, redness, or puckering
• Nipple changes or discharge
• Persistent breast pain or discomfort
   

Any new or unusual breast change should be assessed by a GP.

If you:

• Notice a new breast change
• Receive an abnormal BreastScreen result
• Are advised to have further imaging or biopsy
   

The next step is usually referral for further assessment. This may involve additional imaging, a biopsy, or consultation with a breast specialist.

You have the right to choose your specialist, seek a second opinion, and ask questions about your options. Early specialist input can help provide clarity and reassurance during an uncertain time.

Breast cancer treatment is tailored to each individual and may involve a combination of:

Surgery is often the primary treatment for breast cancer. Options may include:

• Breast conserving surgery (lumpectomy)
• Mastectomy
• Oncoplastic breast surgery, where appropriate

Surgical planning considers cancer type, size, location, and individual preferences.

Depending on the cancer, further treatments may include:

• Radiation therapy
• Hormonal therapy
• Chemotherapy
• Targeted therapies
   

These treatments are coordinated with oncology specialists as part of a multidisciplinary care approach.

Oncoplastic breast surgery integrates cancer removal with advanced surgical planning techniques to help preserve breast shape and appearance where appropriate.

This approach may:

• Allow wider cancer excision while maintaining breast contour
• Reduce visible deformity after surgery
• Minimise the need for additional corrective surgery
   

Not all patients require oncoplastic techniques, part of subspecialist care is determining what approach is most suitable for each person. 

At Darling Downs Surgical Oncology, care is designed to feel calm, clear, and coordinated.

Patients can expect:

• Unhurried consultations and clear explanations
• Prompt review of referrals and timely contact
• Thoughtful surgical planning with subspecialist input
• Transparent discussion of costs
• Care coordination to reduce stress and confusion
• Telehealth consultations for regional patients where appropriate
   

Care can be coordinated at St Andrew’s Toowoomba Hospital while always supporting patient choice across services and locations.

Referrals for breast cancer assessment and surgery are welcomed from:

• GPs
• BreastScreen services
• Diagnostic imaging providers
   

Second opinions are supported. If you have concerns about breast health or a recent diagnosis, your GP can assist with referral for specialist advice.