Why choose Geisinger for breast cancer care?
You deserve to be at the center of your care team. Here, surgeons, oncologists and nurse navigators work together to build a treatment plan specifically for you. By using the latest technology and research recognized by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers, we’ll find the most effective ways to treat your cancer while protecting your quality of life.
Your care may include targeted medical therapies, precise radiation or clinical trials. Our team specializes in breast-conserving techniques, including hidden-scar surgery and immediate reconstruction, to treat your cancer effectively while supporting your long-term recovery.
Treatments and services we offer
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FAQs
What are the risk factors for breast cancer?
You may face a higher risk due to:
- Genetics and family history: Inherited gene changes, such as BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations, increase your risk.
- Age and biology: Risk often increases as you get older, especially after age 50. Other factors include having dense breast tissue or starting your period before age 12.
- Health and lifestyle: Factors such as obesity, inactivity and alcohol consumption can impact your risk levels.
Knowing your risk lets your doctors create a personalized screening plan. Most people diagnosed with breast cancer have no known family history, making regular checkups essential.
When should I start getting breast cancer screenings?
Generally, women at average risk should start yearly screening mammograms at age 40. You may need to start earlier or use other screening tools if you have a known genetic mutation or a strong family history of breast cancer.
We offer 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), which gives a clearer view of your breast tissue and detects abnormalities that traditional imaging might miss.
Talk to your doctor to determine the screening schedule that’s right for your specific health history.
What are the symptoms of breast cancer
While many people look for a lump, you should also watch for other changes in your breasts or underarms. Early signs can include:
- Lumps or swelling: A new lump, thickening or swelling in the breast or armpit area.
- Skin changes: Visible skin changes, such as dimpling, redness, puckering or a scaly texture.
- Nipple changes: Discharge, an inverted nipple (turning inward), or persistent sores can also be a symptom.
Having these symptoms doesn’t mean you have cancer, but be sure to have any persistent changes evaluated by a doctor to rule out health issues.
How is breast cancer diagnosed?
Our specialists use advanced technology to accurately assess your health. If we find an abnormality, your diagnostic process may include:
- Diagnostic mammogram: This technique uses focused imaging to get a closer look at a specific area of concern.
- Breast MRI or CT scan: High-resolution imaging is used to discover tumors, detect if they have spread or evaluate treatment progress.
- Biopsy: A small tissue sample is taken with a thin needle or minor surgical procedure, then examined under a microscope for cancerous cells.
Breast cancer care at Geisinger
Here, your care team’s approach combines advanced technology with a personal touch. We offer:
- Accredited expertise: Benefit from a program nationally recognized for excellence in breast center care.
- Coordinated clinics: Meet with your entire care team in 1 location.
- Genetic insights: Advanced testing helps you understand your inherited risks so we can build a proactive health plan.
- Innovative surgical options: Restore confidence with breast-conserving and hidden-scar techniques.
- Nurse navigators: You’ll have a dedicated partner to coordinate your appointments and answer your questions at every step.