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Receiving a breast cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming. Whether you are newly diagnosed or preparing for your first appointment, asking the right questions can help you better understand your condition and feel more confident about your care.
10 Important Questions to Discuss with your Breast Cancer Specialist during your Consultation
1. What type of breast cancer do I have?
Breast cancer is not a single disease. Common types include ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), invasive ductal carcinoma, lobular carcinoma, and triple-negative breast cancer. Understanding your specific diagnosis is the foundation of an effective treatment plan.
2. What stage is my cancer and how large is the tumor?
Cancer staging considers tumor size, lymph node involvement, and whether the cancer has spread. Your stage helps determine treatment options and provides insight into prognosis.
3. Has the cancer spread beyond the breast?
In some cases, breast cancer can spread to other parts of the body, such as the bones, lungs, liver, or brain. Ask whether imaging tests—such as CT scans, PET scans, or bone scans—are recommended to evaluate this.
4. What treatment options are available to me?
Treatment plans are highly individualized and may include one or more of the following:
- Surgery (lumpectomy or mastectomy)
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy
- Hormone therapy
- Targeted therapy
- Immunotherapy
Your specialist can explain why certain treatments are recommended for your diagnosis.
5. What side effects should I expect?
Each treatment comes with potential side effects, which may be temporary or long-term. Ask about possible effects such as:
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Hair loss
- Fertility concerns
- Emotional or cognitive changes
Knowing what to expect can help you plan ahead and access supportive care early.
6. Will I need additional tests before treatment begins?
Further testing may be needed to guide treatment decisions. This can include additional biopsies, hormone receptor testing, HER2 testing, or genetic testing such as BRCA analysis.
7. Should I consider getting a second opinion?
Seeking a second opinion is common and often encouraged, especially for complex cases, rare subtypes, or major surgical decisions. It can provide reassurance or alternative perspectives on treatment options.
8. What is my risk of recurrence or long-term outlook?
While no outcome can be predicted with certainty, your specialist can discuss prognosis based on your cancer type, stage, and treatment plan. Ask about recurrence risk and recommended follow-up care.
9. How much will treatment cost, and what is covered by insurance?
Cancer treatment can be costly. Ask your care team about:
- Insurance coverage
- Expected out-of-pocket expenses
- Financial assistance programs
- Payment plans or support services
Many centers offer financial counseling to help navigate these concerns.
10. Is surgery the right choice for me?
If surgery is part of your treatment plan, important questions include:
- Is a lumpectomy or mastectomy recommended?
- Will reconstruction be needed or optional?
- What is the recovery timeline?
- What are the risks and benefits?
Your breast surgeon will help you weigh these options based on your goals and diagnosis.
Expert Breast Cancer Care at Gregory Rhodes MD Cancer Center
At Gregory Rhodes MD Cancer Center in Walnut Creek, California, our multidisciplinary team of breast specialists delivers personalized, evidence-based care using advanced diagnostic tools and treatment technologies. From diagnosis through treatment and survivorship, we are committed to supporting you every step of the way.
Schedule a consultation or visit the Gregory Rhodes MD Cancer Center website to learn more about our breast cancer services.
