Conditions
We diagnose and treat the following:
- Benign breast disease
- Breast cancer
- Breast masses
- Breast pain
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- Gynecomastia (enlarged breast tissue in men)
- Nipple discharge
- Patients at high risk for breast cancer
- Patients who carry breast cancer mutations
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Learn the warning signs and risk factors for breast cancer ›
Diagnosis
We believe that early diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer is paramount. Our physicians are nationally regarded experts in the early detection and treatment of breast cancer and breast disease.
From screening to risk assessment to diagnosis and treatment, you are in the skilled hands of a multidisciplinary team of surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, reconstructive surgery specialists, researchers, nurses, social workers and other health professionals.
We work together to ensure that you receive the highest level of care possible. This collaboration allows us to develop an optimal, individualized treatment plan specific to your needs.
Imaging
Imaging technology can make all the difference in early detection of breast cancer. We offer the most advanced non-invasive imaging technologies in Orange County, including:
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
We have an MRI designed specifically to image breasts. It is the most sensitive diagnostic tool available in the fight against breast cancer today.
- Digital and 3D mammography
The most widely used imaging method to identify breast cancers. Our dedicated breast radiologists are highly skilled in the interpretation of digital mammographic images.
- Positron emission tomography (PET) and computed tomography (CT) fusion imaging
We have one of the nation’s most advanced PET/CT fusion instruments, which provides the highest resolution images available.
Its digital data helps maximize radiation treatment of metabolically active tumors while sparing normal tissues.
It also is equipped for PET/CT-guided biopsies in breast tissue with high metabolic activity, which greatly enhances our ability to perform accurate diagnostic biopsies
- Whole breast ultrasound scanning
Ultrasound imaging allows physicians to examine breasts without radiation.
Our specialists also are testing new technologies developed at UCI Health, including duel-energy mammography, which can more accurately measure breast tissue density, and laser breast scanners, which show promise in distinguishing between malignant and benign tumors.
Minimally invasive tests
Our breast health mammography specialists perform minimally invasive tests, including:
- Ultrasound-guided biopsy
- Fine-needle aspiration biopsy
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- MRI-guided biopsy
- Stereotactic biopsy
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We also provide:
Treatments
When cancer is detected, UCI Health surgical and medical oncologists consult with each patient to develop an individualized treatment plan.
Breast conservation
Our surgeons emphasize conserving as much breast tissue as possible. We understand a woman’s concerns about breast aesthetics. In 66 percent of cases, breast cancer can be eradicated without removing the entire breast. By combining cancer surgery with plastic surgery, our surgical team provides patients with optimal results.
Breast-conserving procedures include:
- Partial mastectomy
- Sentinel lymph node dissection
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- Neoadjuvant chemotherapy
- Reconstructive surgery
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We offer the full range of surgical and non-surgical treatment options, including:
Surgical
- Mastectomy
- Partial mastectomy
- Sentinel lymph node dissection
- Reconstructive surgery
- Skin-sparing and nipple-sparing mastectomy
- Immediate reconstruction including tissue flaps
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Nonsurgical
- Radiation
- Partial breast irradiation
- Chemotherapy
- Neoadjuvant chemotherapy
- Genetic counseling and testing
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Clinical trials
UC Irvine Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer, Orange County's National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center, has an active clinical trial program that gives our patients access to novel breast cancer treatments long before they become widely available.
Our research physicians are hard at work developing and testing new chemotherapy drugs and combinations that can shrink tumors prior to surgery, improve therapeutic drug delivery and reduce the need for radical surgery.
View our available breast cancer clinical trials ›
