How to Choose the Right Breast Cancer Surgeon in Brisbane
A diagnosis of breast cancer can be overwhelming. Choosing the right breast cancer surgeon is one of the most important decisions you will make and can influence not only cancer outcomes but also your long-term wellbeing and quality of life.
This page is designed to help you understand what to look for when choosing a breast cancer surgeon in Brisbane and how to ensure you receive modern, evidence-based care.
Understanding Breast Cancer Surgery
Breast cancer surgery is no longer a one-size-fits-all approach. Treatment is now highly individualised, taking into account tumour characteristics, breast size and shape, genetics, and personal preferences.
Much of the information available online may not apply to your specific situation. Comparing your diagnosis to others can lead to unnecessary anxiety. Your care should be tailored specifically to you.
Reassuringly, most breast cancers—particularly small, screening-detected cancers—are highly treatable. With current surgical and oncology treatments, over 90% of women are cured.
Why Choosing the Right Breast Surgeon Matters
Breast cancer surgery is about more than removing a tumour. It involves careful planning to achieve the best oncological outcome while preserving breast appearance and function wherever possible.
The right breast surgeon will:
Be appropriately trained and credentialed
Work within a specialist breast cancer team
Offer oncoplastic surgical techniques
Provide clear communication and support
Ensure treatment is accessible and affordable
Is Your Surgeon a Member of BreastSurgANZ?
BreastSurgANZ is the governing body for specialist breast surgeons in Australia and New Zealand.
A surgeon who is a full member of BreastSurgANZ:
Has completed dedicated breast surgery training
Maintains ongoing professional education
Meets national quality and safety standards
This is one of the most important credentials to confirm when choosing a breast cancer surgeon.
The Importance of a Multidisciplinary Breast Cancer Team
Modern breast cancer care relies on a multidisciplinary approach.
A specialist breast cancer team typically includes:
Breast surgeon
Breast radiologist
Medical oncologist
Radiation oncologist
Breast care nurse
All cases should be discussed collaboratively to ensure access to the most up-to-date treatment options and clinical trials where appropriate.
Dr Ben Green works within a specialised multidisciplinary breast cancer team in Brisbane, where every diagnosis and treatment plan is reviewed collectively.
The Role of a Dedicated Breast Care Nurse
A dedicated breast care nurse is an essential part of breast cancer care.
Your breast care nurse provides:
Education and guidance throughout treatment
Emotional and psychological support
Assistance with body image and sexual health concerns
A consistent point of contact during your treatment journey
Throughout your care, you will have regular contact with our experienced breast care nurses, Cath and Sophie.
Oncoplastic Breast Surgery and Breast Shape Preservation
With high cure rates for breast cancer, long-term outcomes such as breast appearance and quality of life are increasingly important.
Oncoplastic breast surgery combines cancer surgery with reconstructive techniques to preserve or improve breast shape.
Oncoplastic techniques may include:
Advanced lumpectomy techniques
Breast reduction at the time of cancer surgery
Mastopexy (breast lift)
Tissue flaps to restore volume
Immediate breast reconstruction at mastectomy
Oncoplastic surgery should be considered whenever more than 10% of breast tissue is being removed.
Not all breast surgeons are trained in oncoplastic techniques. It is important to ask whether your surgeon has formal training, experience, and routinely offers these options.
Are Breast Cancer Surgery Fees Affordable?
Breast cancer surgery in Australia is partially covered by Medicare and private health insurance.
High out-of-pocket costs are not required for high-quality care. Higher fees do not equate to better surgical outcomes.
Dr Green aims to keep fees transparent and as low as possible, in line with the Australian Medical Association recommended fee schedule.
Is It Safe to Seek a Second Opinion?
Yes. Seeking a second opinion is safe and often appropriate.
In most cases, breast cancer treatment does not require immediate surgery. Taking time to consider your options—particularly when considering mastectomy or bilateral mastectomy—is reasonable and safe.
A second opinion should be considered if:
Oncoplastic options have not been discussed
You feel rushed into a decision
You would like reassurance about your treatment plan
In general, taking up to six weeks to seek a second opinion does not compromise outcomes.
Support Throughout Your Breast Cancer Journey
Breast cancer care extends beyond surgery alone. Support, communication, and long-term follow-up are essential components of treatment.
Dr Ben Green and his team are committed to providing:
Evidence-based breast cancer surgery
Access to oncoplastic techniques
Multidisciplinary care
Compassionate, patient-centred support
If you have been diagnosed with breast cancer and are seeking guidance on your surgical options in Brisbane, our team is here to support you every step of the way.
