Q: What type of breast surgery are we performing?

A: Dr. Rafael Lugo does surgical procedures to treat infections and also to remove benign growths and malignant growths. 

Q: Does Dr. Rafael Lugo do breast enhancement?

A: At the moment, we do not do that, but we work in conjunction with several plastic surgeons in the area that we are happy to recommend. 

Q: Is Dr. Lugo A breast surgeon?

A: Yes, Dr. Rafael Lugo has been doing breast surgery since 1998. Dr. Rafael Lugohas vast experience performing the new and older procedures that are proven to remove benign and malignant tumors or to diagnose them. Nowadays there is a fellowship in breast surgery some surgeons acquire, but when Dr. Lugo trained, this was not an option. That is an extra year or two of doing purely breast surgery and learning techniques. Dr. Lugo did not do that fellowship but has over 20 years of experience operating in breasts. 

Q: Does Dr. Lugo perform needle biopsies?

A: Dr. Rafael Lugo can do a fine needle biopsy of a mass in the office, but for most needle biopsies we send the patient to the radiologist or breast center since they have the equipment to accurately visualize and biopsy the area in question in a more precise fashion. We have access to the best breast centers in the area. We can help our patients get an appointment and have the procedure needed to be performed.

Q: How do I know if I have a benign lump or malignant?

A: The safest answer is to get an exam. There are certain characteristics of a benign vs a malignant lump, but you do now want to dismiss a lump as benign and later on turns out to be malignant. Even doctors need the help of imaging and sometimes a biopsy to rule out cancer. So, my advice is to come to see us, and that way we can help you determine with certainty. 

Q: Is breast cancer inherited?

A: Breast cancer can be inherited and it is one of the few cancers that have been associated with a couple of genes that when present almost assures the development of cancer in the individual. IT is important to know your family history. That said, most breast cancers are not inherited, meaning that you may have no family history and then you end up with cancer. This is why self-exam, doctor exams, and mammography are so important. 

Q: Is an ultrasound of the breast as good as a mammogram?

A: I would say that they are complementary and that they have different strengths and functions. Ultrasound is great to find cysts and a mammogram is better at finding small calcifications that can point to a very small early cancer. Many times we start with an ultrasound especially in a young patient or someone with a palpable mass. Mammograms are recommended routinely every 1-2 years and ultrasounds are used only as needed. 

Q: Is nipple discharge a sign of cancer?

A: Let's say, it is not normal if you are not breastfeeding or pregnant. Most of the time it is not cancer, but it can be an indication of a benign breast duct tumor called a papilloma. Especially if the discharge is bloody. Also, it is important to note that this discharge should be spontaneous and the kind that you notice in your bra and not secondary to trauma, nipple rings, or frequent or aggressive nipple manipulations. Regardless of the cause, if you suffer from this come and let us examine you.

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The realm of breast conditions can be very extensive and as with any other condition, the care and diagnosis are very personalized. We must examine and order the appropriate diagnostic modalities to determine the cause of your problem and then help you eliminate it. Come and see us and we can personalize the care to your particular needs.

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