Practice’s breast and plastic surgery teams guide patients through risk assessment, surgery, reconstruction and recovery
Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer among women in Wisconsin, accounting for nearly one-third of their cancer diagnoses. While the disease has many risk factors, it can develop in any woman regardless of age or overall health.
Medical advances are allowing detection of breast cancer at earlier stages, opening up the availability of less-invasive procedures. Surgery remains the most common treatment for breast cancer. Options can vary based on the severity and spread of the disease.
Surgical Associates’ Approach to Breast Cancer Surgery
Surgical Associates’ breast cancer surgery team provides personalized care using a collaborative, team-based approach that utilizes up-to-date technology and treatment guidelines. Dr. Cecilia Stroede, Surgical Associates’ fellowship-trained breast surgeon and director of Aspirus Breast Program, works closely with patients’ physicians, Surgical Associates’ own plastic surgery team, as well as experienced radiologists, pathologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and genetic counselors.
Surgical Associates provides continuous care throughout a patient’s entire journey—from risk assessment and surgery to reconstruction, recovery and survivorship. Guidance and support are offered every step of the way.
Dr. Stroede, double board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Alexey Markelov and the other care providers meet regularly to review and develop treatment strategies for all new patients with breast cancer. Their focus always centers on the individual needs of every patient.
With both the breast and plastic surgery teams working together within the same surgical practice, patients are guided efficiently through treatment. Multiple specialists are often available during a single visit.
Surgical Associates offers a full spectrum of surgical procedures to treat breast cancer. Operations include:
- Lumpectomy (also called breast-conserving surgery or partial mastectomy)
- Mastectomy
- Sentinel lymph node biopsy
- Axillary lymph node dissection
- Breast reconstruction
- Oncoplastic surgery
Breast Reconstruction at Surgical Associates
Reconstruction is often an important part of recovery following breast cancer surgery. The procedure recreates all or part of the breast that was surgically removed, restoring a natural shape. Reconstruction can be performed using implants (silicone or saline) or a patient’s own tissue.
Working in collaboration, Dr. Stroede and Dr. Markelov provide patients with options to complete breast reconstruction either at the time of the mastectomy or as a separate surgery at a later date. The choice to have immediate versus delayed reconstruction depends on the stage of the cancer, overall health and age of the patient, treatments needed after the surgery, and patient’s preference. If chemotherapy or radiation of the chest is required, reconstruction may be delayed so that the breast may heal unimpaired.
When a lumpectomy, mastectomy or double mastectomy is recommended, Dr. Markelov helps patients better understand their reconstruction options and takes an active role in the breast cancer treatment plan.
Meet the Doctors
Cecilia Stroede M.D., F.A.C.S. |
Alexey Markelov M.D. |
“Dr. Stroede is the most wonderful doctor I’ve ever had. She listens.”
“Dr. Markelov and everyone at Surgical Associates were extremely kind and professional. I’m so grateful for all the prompt help and attention I was given during my appointments.”
Surgical Associates High Risk Breast Screening Clinic
Surgical Associates now offers a complete breast cancer risk evaluation for individuals who may be at higher risk of developing the disease. If a patient is found to have an increased risk based on personal and family history, Surgical Associates’ breast cancer team will develop a customized, long-term screening and risk-reduction plan.
Accreditations
Learn More
Working as a team, Surgical Associates’ breast cancer and plastic surgery providers are dedicated to helping patients beat breast cancer and maintain active and fulfilling lives. If you would like to learn more about Surgical Associates’ various breast surgery and reconstruction options, call 715-847-2022. Surgical Associates is currently offering in-person and telehealth visits.