Diagnosed with Breast Cancer: What Comes Next?
Receiving a breast cancer diagnosis can leave you with many questions and wondering what lies ahead. At Hematology-Oncology Associates of CNY, our goal is to help you understand the next steps and feel prepared for your first appointment with the care team.
Your First Step After a Breast Cancer Diagnosis:
Consulting with the Oncology Team
One of the most important decisions to make after being diagnosed with breast cancer is choosing the right breast cancer care team. Care typically begins with a surgeon and a medical oncologist who specialize in breast cancer.
Because surgery is typically a part of a breast cancer treatment plan, most patients meet with a breast cancer surgeon soon after diagnosis to discuss surgical options and timing. Medical oncologists specialize in non-surgical treatments such as chemotherapy, hormone therapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy, and they work closely with your surgeon and radiation oncologists, as needed, to develop a comprehensive, personalized treatment plan.
At HOA, your team will also include certified oncology nurses to oversee your infusions and assist with side effects. We also have a team of supportive care specialists to assist with your emotional well-being and connect you and your family with helpful community resources, including those at our own Wellness Center.
Understanding Your Type of Breast Cancer
Personalized breast cancer treatment plans are based on several important factors.
Breast Cancer Type
Breast cancer can begin in different parts of the breast. The most common types include ductal carcinoma, which starts in the milk ducts, and lobular carcinoma, which begins in the milk-producing glands. Inflammatory breast cancer is a rare and aggressive type that may cause redness, swelling, or a puckered appearance of the breast.
Hormone Receptor and HER2 Status
The cancer will also be evaluated for hormone receptors and HER2 protein overexpression. Some breast cancers grow in response to estrogen or progesterone (estrogen-positive or progesterone-positive). An overproduction of the HER2 protein (HER2-positive) can also cause breast cancer cells to grow. If none of these are present, the cancer is classified as triple-negative breast cancer.
The Stage of Breast Cancer
Breast cancer staging describes the tumor’s size and if it has spread to lymph nodes nearby or other parts of the body. Stages range from 0 through IV, with stage 0 being considered breast cancer that is contained and non-invasive, and stage IV being cancer that has spread.
How to Choose The Right Breast Cancer Treatment Option
Every breast cancer treatment plan at HOA is individualized. The medical oncologist will review the biopsy results, imaging scans, and other diagnostic tests, then collaborate with the other physicians on the team to determine the most appropriate treatment approach.
Depending on the type, hormone status, stage, your age, and overall health, your treatment options may include surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy. Most patients receive more than one treatment in their plan.
HOA’s community-based cancer centers offer comfortable infusion suites staffed by certified oncology nurses. Radiation therapy is also administered at our cancer centers, conveniently located in the Syracuse area.
Will I Have Surgery Before Other Treatments?
Whether surgery comes before or after other treatments depends on your specific diagnosis. In some cases, treatments such as chemotherapy are recommended before surgery to shrink the tumor. This may allow for breast-sparing surgery, such as lumpectomy.
In other situations, surgery comes first, often followed by radiation therapy and, if needed, other treatments. Your breast surgeon and medical oncologist work together to determine the timing of your treatments based on the details surrounding your diagnosis.
Should You Consider a Clinical Trial for Breast Cancer?
Clinical trials may be an option for some eligible patients, depending on whether they meet the required criteria. Participating in a clinical trial allows access to some of the most innovative breast cancer treatments.
Hematology-Oncology Associates of CNY is actively involved in research studies with the goal of finding more effective ways to treat cancer. Our patients have access to the latest breast cancer clinical trials. Your oncologist will discuss this option with you if you are eligible.
Learn about clinical trials available at Hematology-Oncology Associates of CNY.
Should I Get a Second Opinion Before Starting Treatment?
Feeling confident in your diagnosis and treatment plan is essential. This is why many patients choose to seek a second opinion before starting treatment. At HOA, our physicians provide second opinions for breast cancer diagnoses and treatment plans.
Second opinions are often covered by insurance, but it’s still a good idea to confirm coverage with your insurance provider.
Preparing for Your First Oncology Appointment
The first oncology visit can feel overwhelming due to the amount of information discussed. Bringing a trusted friend or family member can be helpful for note-taking and support.
We recommend keeping a notebook or using your phone’s notes to jot down questions or concerns, a list of medications or supplements you take. It is also helpful to take note of important dates and any symptoms you experience. This information helps your breast cancer care team provide the most effective care.
Learn about what to expect at your first oncology visit with HOA.
Questions to Ask Your Breast Cancer Specialist
You may want to consider asking the oncologist these common questions during your first appointment:
- Do I have any genetic mutations that could affect my family members?
- Has the cancer spread to my lymph nodes?
- How soon should treatment begin?
- What can I expect at future appointments?
- How can I prepare for breast cancer surgery?
- Will surgery occur before or after other treatments?
- What should I know about breast reconstruction?
- What side effects could I experience from breast cancer treatments?
- Is there anything I can do to reduce hair loss?
- Are there any activities I should avoid or add to my routine?
- Should I make changes to my lifestyle choices (diet, exercise, rest, stress level)?
- Are there supplements I should or should not take?
The breast cancer doctors at HOA have also answered commonly asked questions in our FAQs section.
Choosing Hematology-Oncology Associates of CNY for Breast Cancer Treatment
Hematology-Oncology Associates of CNY is a physician-owned practice committed to providing compassionate, advanced breast cancer care using the latest technology and most effective cancer treatments. Our comprehensive care team includes medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, oncology nurses, and several other specialists who provide supportive care. When surgery is part of the treatment plan, we will work closely with your breast cancer surgeon.
HOA is proud to be part of Breast Care Partners, a comprehensive breast center accredited by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Cancers (NAPBC), a quality program administered by the American College of Surgeons. This partnership demonstrates our commitment to high standards in providing coordinated care for patients with breast cancer.
HOA serves approximately 70% of adult cancer patients in the region, delivering treatment in a supportive and compassionate environment. From diagnosis to treatment, we offer compassionate care at every step to ensure you achieve the best possible outcome. Our multidisciplinary approach also includes a survivorship program that provides ongoing support after treatment is complete.
If you or a loved one was diagnosed with breast cancer, request an appointment for a consultation with an oncologist in Central New York.
Insurance Coverage
It is common to have concerns about the cost of breast cancer treatment. While insurance coverage can vary, many aspects of your care are typically covered. We accept different insurance plans and offer access to financial counselors who can help you understand coverage and payment options.
Contact the team at HOA to confirm we participate in your health plan. You can also visit our Billing Insurance Information page for additional details.
Find a Breast Cancer Doctor in Central New York
The team at Hematology-Oncology Associates of CNY is dedicated to providing cancer care for patients with breast cancer close to home. Our cancer centers are located in East Syracuse, Auburn, and Camillus, NY. We offer care for patients throughout Central New York, in the Syracuse area, including Camillus and all of Onondaga County; Auburn, and the rest of Cayuga County; Jefferson County, including Watertown; Madison County, including Oneida; Oneida County, including Utica and Verona; and throughout Oswego County, including Oswego and Fulton.
