Your journey to breast health: A step-by-step guide

Discovering a breast lump can be a daunting experience, and seeking medical attention at a breast clinic might seem like an inconvenience. However, at the Brentwood Breast Clinic, we strive to make this journey as comfortable and efficient as possible for you. In this article, Miss Sascha Dua will walk you through what to expect during your visit, from scheduling your appointment to the various stages of your assessment.

Scheduling your appointment:

We understand that scheduling an appointment at a breast clinic can be challenging, especially when it involves coordinating work and childcare. At the Brentwood Breast Clinic, we aim to ease this burden by offering four clinics per week at two Brentwood hospitals. These clinics are scheduled from early to late afternoon, providing flexibility for our patients.

The welcome process:

When you arrive at our clinic, you will be greeted by a caring and professional specialist breast care nurse who will help alleviate any initial anxiety you may have.

Meeting Miss Dua:

Your journey continues as you meet our experienced specialist, Miss Dua. She will introduce herself, take the time to understand your medical history, general health, and family background, and begin piecing together your unique story. Miss Dua will then conduct a thorough examination, accompanied by one of our specialist nurses as a chaperone. We also currently allow companions to join you in the clinic, although this may change during unforeseen circumstances, such as a pandemic.

Imaging and beyond:

 If you are visiting for a breast-related concern, the next step is imaging. Younger women typically undergo an ultrasound, while older women may also have a mammogram. If any concerning lesions are detected, our skilled radiologists will counsel you about a potential biopsy, which can be scheduled on the same day or at a later date, depending on your availability.

Comprehensive radiological examination:

In every case, we conduct a thorough radiological examination of both your breasts and armpits to ensure a comprehensive assessment.

Discussion of findings:

After your assessment in the radiology department, you will be escorted back to the waiting room to allow Miss Dua to confer with the radiologist regarding your imaging. Once your case has been reviewed, you will be called back into the clinic room with Miss Dua and her nurse. Here, you will receive a detailed explanation of the findings.

Managing your health:

Miss Dua will engage in a detailed conversation with you, addressing various aspects of your breast health, including managing benign changes such as breast pain, nipple discharge, or benign lumps. In less common cases, she will discuss the approach to managing breast cancer.

Next steps:

Following your consultation, you will either receive written information and be discharged or make plans for a follow-up appointment. Rest assured; we will ensure you know how to access our services should you require further assistance in the future.

What to wear and how long it takes:

For your visit, it's advisable to wear comfortable clothing with separate top and bottom pieces as you may need to remove your top and bra for examinations and tests. While your appointment may take up to two or three hours, please understand that individual appointment lengths can vary, and we cannot predict the exact duration. Be prepared by ensuring your transportation, childcare, and other arrangements account for potential wait times. Bringing a fully charged iPad or a magazine can also help pass the time.

A team approach to breast cancer care:

At the Brentwood Breast Clinic, Miss Dua leads a specialised team of oncologists, plastic surgeons, and clinical nurse specialists. We collaborate closely in private multidisciplinary team (MDT) meetings with other renowned specialists, ensuring a comprehensive and expert approach to your care.

Miss Sascha Dua is a distinguished oncoplastic breast surgeon with more than 25 years of experience. You can schedule an appointment with Miss Dua on her Top Doctors profile.