Frequently asked questions

Breast-conserving surgery means the breast is not removed. The oncoplastic approach combines this operation with techniques that give the best aesthetic result.

When the breast is conserved, radiotherapy is planned in most patients; the decision is made with the oncology team according to the features of the tumour.

Most patients stay one night and are discharged the next morning; if overall health allows, none at all.

Mastectomy is preferred when there are several foci far apart in the breast, radiotherapy cannot be given, or the tumour is very large relative to the breast.

No. Some patients do not want reconstruction, which is a completely valid choice. It can also be done later if you wish.

The decision depends on the features of the tumour and lymph node status; it is not needed in every patient.

In young women with symptoms, ultrasound is usually used first; mammography and MRI are added if needed.

Most of the time, no. Pain is usually related to the hormonal cycle.

In most cases yes, and it is usually advised; the decision still follows your doctor’s assessment.

For women at average risk, regular mammography is advised after age 40. It may start earlier if there is a family history; we decide the frequency together after an examination.

No. Most breast lumps are benign (such as cysts or fibroadenomas). However, a new, hard, growing or one-sided lump should always be assessed with an examination and imaging.

No. It is not necessary for every woman; we decide together based on your family history and the features of the disease. If needed, we refer you for genetic counselling.

Please tell us about all medicines you take (especially blood thinners), allergies and past illnesses. We give you written instructions beforehand about fasting and medication.

Yes. Even if the tumour has disappeared on imaging, surgery and pathological evaluation are needed; later treatment is planned according to this result.

With sentinel lymph node biopsy the risk is markedly lower than after removing all underarm nodes, but it is not zero. We inform you about arm exercises and early warning signs.

It varies with the type of operation. Many patients return to walking and light daily tasks fairly soon; at your check-up we tell you individually when you can return to heavy lifting and strenuous exercise.

The first visit is usually soon after surgery, when the pathology result is reviewed together. After that we set the frequency according to the features of the disease and create a regular follow-up plan.

Not every discharge means cancer; hormonal causes and milk-duct problems are common. One-sided, bloody or spontaneous discharge needs an examination and, if necessary, imaging.

If you have them, bring your mammogram, ultrasound and MRI images (CD or report), pathology results, a list of your medicines and any previous surgery or discharge documents. You can still come for an examination without any of them.

You can securely upload your reports and images on the Second Opinion page. Your documents are visible only to authorised staff, and we contact you after the review.

I see patients at İstinye University Medical Park Gaziosmanpaşa Hospital and Başakşehir Çam and Sakura City Hospital. You can book through the form on this site or contact us by phone.