Breast Cancer Surgery Gold Coast

Specialised breast cancer surgery

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.

Breast examination for breast cancer surgery Gold Coast

Understanding breast cancer surgery

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 Cancer Surgery Options

Breast-Conserving Surgery

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 Breast Surgery

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.

Mastectomy

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

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 & Aftercare

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.

Risks of Breast Cancer Surgery

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.

Breast Cancer Surgery Information

Before a Breast Cancer Diagnosis
Dr Susan Hawes performing a clinical breast examination

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.

1800 1200 Dr Susan Hawes
Breast Cancer Surgery Recovery, Challenges & Outcomes
Breast cancer surgeon performing a clinical breast examination during consultation

Breast Cancer Surgery Recovery, Challenges & Outcomes

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.

1800 1200 Dr Susan Hawes

DR SUSAN HAWES

A NATIONALLY RECOGNISED, TRUSTED & PROFESSIONAL GOLD COAST BREAST SURGEON

ABOUT DR SUSAN HAWES

Susan was born and grew up on the Gold Coast. She qualified as a pharmacist from the University of Queensland in 2003 and then went on to further tertiary study at Griffith University and completed a Bachelor’s degree in medicine and surgery in 2009.

Susan completed her internship and her resident years at the Gold Coast Hospital before moving all over Queensland for her training as a general surgeon.

Susan finished her surgical training in 2020 as a Princess Alexandra Hospital registrar. She was accepted onto subspecialty training in breast surgery with BreastSurgANZ and completed her first year of subspecialty training in Canberra in 2021. In 2022 Susan returned to the Gold Coast and worked as a general surgical fellow at Robina Hospital; also celebrating the birth of her second child. In 2023 Susan and her young family moved to Sydney, where she completed her second post-fellowship training year of breast surgery at the Oncology Centre of Excellence Chris O’Brien Lifehouse. She also completed a graduate certificate of breast surgery through the University of Sydney in 2023.

Susan has a passion for caring for patients to achieve the best possible outcomes for their health. She believes that timely communication is important between surgeons, patients and their health providers to ensure continuity of care. Susan has an interest in teaching and research and has presented her work at national conferences.

Susan enjoys the challenge and creativity of breast surgery but is also a dedicated general surgeon with experience in both emergency and elective surgery.

Gold Coast Breast Cancer Surgeon – Dr Susan Hawes
PRICING FEE STRUCTURE

Initial Consultation

Full Fee
$250

Medicare Rebate
$81.30

Post-op appointments

Full Fee
Bulk Billed

Medicare Rebate
Not applicable

Follow up consultations

Full Fee
$100

Medicare Rebate
$40.85