Before a Breast Cancer Diagnosis
Thousands of women face breast cancer diagnosis every year, here are some insights and practical advice to help support and inform anyone in need.
Dr Susan Hawes at Gold Coast Breast Surgery provides specialised breast cancer surgery on the Gold Coast, offering evidence-based care with a personalised and considered approach.
Care is planned in collaboration with a multidisciplinary team of oncologists, radiologists and pathologists, ensuring treatment is tailored to each individual diagnosis and supports informed decision-making throughout.

Surgery is a central component in the treatment of breast cancer on the Gold Coast. The aim is to remove cancer while preserving breast structure and function where clinically appropriate.
In some cases, lymph node procedures may also be performed to assess whether cancer has spread.
The type of breast cancer surgery recommended depends on factors such as tumour size, location, stage of disease, genetic risk and individual considerations. Options range from breast-conserving surgery to mastectomy, discussed in detail during consultation.
Breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy) involves removal of the cancer with a margin of surrounding healthy tissue while maintaining the majority of the breast. It is commonly used in early-stage breast cancer and is typically followed by radiation therapy to reduce recurrence risk.
Oncoplastic techniques may be used at the time of lumpectomy to minimise changes in breast shape. This approach combines cancer surgery with reconstructive principles to support optimal cosmetic outcomes.
A mastectomy involves removal of all breast tissue and may be recommended for certain breast cancer diagnoses or risk profiles, based on clinical assessment and individual considerations.
Options include:
Total mastectomy
Skin-sparing mastectomy
Nipple-sparing mastectomy, where clinically appropriate
Breast reconstruction may be performed at the time of mastectomy or as a delayed procedure. Options include implant-based techniques or the use of your own tissue, discussed in the context of your treatment and overall health.
Recovery following surgery varies depending on the procedure performed. Post-operative care may include activity modification and follow-up appointments to monitor healing. Read more on breast cancer surgery recovery and outcomes here.
If lymph node surgery is required, additional guidance may be provided to reduce the risk of swelling and support arm function. Follow-up is an important part of ongoing breast cancer care.
Ongoing surveillance may include follow-up examinations and imaging, supporting early detection of any changes and long-term breast health.
All surgical procedures carry potential risks, including:
Infection
Bleeding or fluid collection
Scarring or altered sensation
Lymphoedema following lymph node surgery
Risks associated with anaesthesia
These risks are discussed in detail prior to surgery during consultation with Dr Susan Hawes, ensuring patients are well informed throughout the process.
Thousands of women face breast cancer diagnosis every year, here are some insights and practical advice to help support and inform anyone in need.
Recovering from breast cancer surgery can affect both your body and mind. Learn what to expect after surgery, including common challenges, recovery timelines and emotional changes experienced by many women.