Breast cancer care in Middle Tennessee

At Ascension Saint Thomas in Middle Tennessee, our experienced breast cancer specialists are part of a national team of doctors, sharing best practices and advanced treatment options for breast cancer care – bringing the best of oncology to you, close to home. When you choose Ascension Saint Thomas, you get a multidisciplinary team of doctors, prioritizing early and personalized treatment: board-certified, fellowship-trained breast surgeons, breast radiologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, a care navigator, and a dedicated team of oncology nurses, dietitians and cancer specialists.  

The Breast Cancer Care Program at Ascension Saint Thomas is recognized by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC), delivering advanced diagnostic tests, high-quality treatments and follow-up care. It is also designated as a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence by American College of Radiology. 

Experienced breast cancer specialists, close to home

Your doctors and care team deliver a customized care plan for your cancer. We treat many types of breast cancer, including: 

• Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), non-invasive breast cancer in the milk ducts 
• Invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC), cancer of the milk ducts that has invaded breast tissue beyond the ducts
• Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC), rare, invasive cancer that blocks the lymph vessels in the breast skin 
• Invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC), begins in milk glands
• Male breast cancer, cancer that forms in the breast tissue of men
• Metastatic breast cancer, also known as stage 4 breast cancer that has spread to other parts of the body

When you’re going through breast cancer care, we’re by your side

Cancer is personal, so is the way we care for you. At Ascension Saint Thomas Cancer Care, you’re never alone. You will have face-to-face visits with your doctor, and an entire care team, dedicated to your care – connecting the dots for you. Your doctor and care navigator will take the time to answer all your questions – big and small. By getting to know you and working together, you get a care plan that’s customized to your needs. And with a plan, comes hope. Our goal is to help you recover faster so you can get back to home, family, life and self.

Team approach helps navigate tests and support services

Along the way, your care may require imaging, lab tests, pharmacy support, lymphedema physical therapy or other specialists -- you do not have to navigate your care alone. Upon your cancer diagnosis, or when you come to us during your cancer care, you’re paired with a cancer care navigator. Your care navigator will help you schedule appointments, connect with other services you need, and support you along the way. When you have a concern or feel unsure, don’t hesitate to talk with your care team and ask your questions.  

FIND A MEDICAL ONCOLOGIST      FIND A BREAST SURGEON      FIND A RADIATION ONCOLOGIST

Benefits of our approach to breast cancer care

Cancer specialists who know you and your condition review your treatment and progress. They work together to customize your overall care plan to support your physical well-being and mental and emotional health.

Ascension Saint Thomas Cancer Care offers comprehensive breast cancer care, including:

• Breast radiology: We offer imaging locations close to home – from dedicated breast imaging centers to women’s health centers and our mobile mammogram program. The latest imaging supports mammogram screening and diagnostic imaging tests for advanced care (3D mammograms, breast ultrasound, stereotactic biopsy, and magnetic seed and needle  or wire localization to target non-palpable lesions). 
• High-risk breast cancer monitoring program: At Ascension Saint Thomas, we offer a comprehensive approach to identifying and monitoring an individual’s risk for developing breast cancer. Our high-risk breast cancer surveillance program is designed for women who are at high-risk for breast cancer. We help you understand your risk factors for developing breast cancer, especially if you have a family history and a breast cancer gene mutation. Our nurse practitioners specialize in high-risk surveillance, and testing is available to help you monitor your breasts for signs of breast cancer. And, we offer genetic counseling and tests for BRCA1, BRCA2 and other breast cancer genes.
• Genetic counseling and testing: If you are high risk or have a family history of breast cancer, we deliver cancer genetic screening, testing and counseling to help you and your doctor better understand your risk for developing cancer.
• Breast surgery: Our breast surgeons specialize in breast-conserving lumpectomy using smaller, more precise incisions, or mastectomy, and can discuss options for immediate breast reconstruction, including consultation with a plastic surgeon. 
• Medical oncology: Medical oncologists work with breast surgeons to deliver advanced care (chemotherapy, hormone therapy and targeted immunotherapy) to help stop cancer spread.
• Radiation oncology: Advanced radiation therapy is used to target and destroy cancer cells while avoiding the surrounding healthy tissue.
• Clinical trials: If you want to learn more about other possible cancer care options, talk to your doctor. You may want to ask whether cancer clinical trials are the right option for you. 
• Oncology rehabilitation with lymphedema therapy: Specially trained physical therapists monitor for lymphedema with advanced technology and deliver therapy to help manage symptoms, such as swelling and pain. 
• Support programs and resources: Your cancer care team provides support from nutrition education and counseling to breast cancer support groups, exercise, yoga and spiritual care. And, at Ascension Saint Thomas sites of care, our healing gardens and chapels are always open to patients and your loved ones. We offer supportive care and activities for the whole you.  

Get a second opinion on your breast cancer diagnosis or care plan

Get the confidence and peace of mind that your doctor and care plan are right for you. It's easy to get a second opinion at Ascension Saint Thomas. We can review your medical records and healthcare history to answer your questions and discuss options. Talk with one of our doctors about a personalized care plan.

When you are facing a new breast cancer diagnosis or are deciding on a surgical or therapeutic treatment plan, there’s a lot to think about. Our breast cancer specialists can provide a second opinion, based on our experience and as part of a national team.

Before your appointment, check with your insurance company to find out if a second opinion is covered. We can request your medical records on your behalf, so that they can be shared with your care team before your arrival.

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Frequently asked questions about our cancer services