In the United States, there is a 1 in 8 chance that a woman will develop breast cancer. While most cases arise from genetic mutations acquired throughout one’s lifetime, approximately 5 to 10 percent are due to hereditary genetic mutations.
The High-Risk Breast Clinic offers specialized care for women whose personal and family history puts them at an increased risk of developing breast cancer. Our breast cancer specialists provide patients with the information and support they need to proactively make informed decisions regarding their breast health.
Breast cancer risk management plans include:
- Comprehensive breast cancer risk assessment
- Genetic counseling and genetic testing
- High-risk breast monitoring
- Preventive surgical consultation
Our goal is early detection and, when appropriate, prevention.
Know Your Risk of Developing Breast Cancer and Take Control
Taking a proactive approach to your health begins with understanding your risk factors. The more informed you are, the more empowered you will feel to make decisions about your breast health. Women with a particularly high risk of developing breast cancer may consider prophylactic mastectomy to remove their breasts. Our breast surgeons perform this surgery using the oncoplastic techniques, including hidden scar procedures and aesthetic flat closures.
Our breast care team consists of providers certified in genetic cancer risk assessment and counseling who focus on risk assessment and risk reduction plans as well as monitoring. They work closely with breast surgical oncologists, radiologists, oncologists, gynecologists, and nurse navigators, all with specialized expertise in the care of patients at high risk of developing breast cancer.
Who Should Be Seen in a High Risk Breast Clinic?
You may benefit from evaluation if you:
- Have a first-degree relative diagnosed with breast cancer before age 50
- Have multiple family members with breast or ovarian cancer
- Have a family history of male breast cancer
- Have known hereditary cancer gene mutations
- Have biopsy findings such as atypical hyperplasia or lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS)
- Have a strong family history of both breast and ovarian cancer
If you are unsure whether you qualify, we can help determine your risk.
What Does High-risk Monitoring Include?
Women at increased risk may require enhanced surveillance, including:
- Annual clinical breast exams
- Monthly breast self-awareness
- 3D mammography (digital breast tomosynthesis)
- Breast MRI
- Breast ultrasound when indicated
This proactive approach improves early detection and outcomes.
Breast Cancer Prevention Options
For some women, breast cancer risk can be reduced through:
- Lifestyle modification
- Risk-reducing medications
- Preventive (prophylactic) mastectomy
Our breast surgeons specialize in modern oncoplastic techniques, including hidden-scar procedures, nipple-sparing mastectomy (when appropriate), aesthetic flat closure, and reconstruction options.
We provide clear, evidence-based guidance so you can make informed decisions.
Why Choose Our High-Risk Breast Clinic?
We know that early diagnosis or surgical prevention of breast cancer provides patients who are at high risk with the best outcomes. By working with the specialists at WVCI’s High-Risk Breast Cancer Clinic, patients benefit from:
- Individualized genetic risk assessment
- Advanced breast imaging technology
- Multidisciplinary collaboration
- Certified genetic cancer risk counseling
- Patient-centered, compassionate care
Our team works closely with breast surgical oncologists, medical oncologists, radiologists, gynecologists, and nurse navigators to ensure coordinated, comprehensive care.
Schedule a Breast Cancer Risk Assessment
Understanding your breast cancer risk is the first step toward prevention. Request an appointment with our High-Risk Breast Clinic today to develop a personalized breast health plan.
High-Risk Breast Clinic & Breast Cancer Risk FAQs
It's common to have additional questions about breast cancer. Our cancer care team has put together a few answers to questions that are often asked about our high-risk breast clinic.
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