Breast Cancer Care
If you have breast cancer, take comfort in knowing the condition is very treatable, especially when caught early. At VHC Health's Reinsch Pierce Family Center for Breast Health in Arlington, you may benefit from a range of treatments.
Surgery
Surgery is the most common breast cancer treatment. Your surgeon will help you decide which option is best for you:
- Lumpectomy – Removes only the tumor
- Mastectomy – Removes the whole breast
You can choose whether to receive reconstruction after surgery. This treatment rebuilds the breast with implants or tissue from elsewhere in your body. Trust us to help you understand your choices, prepare for surgery, and plan for a smooth recovery.
Radiation
Your doctor may order radiation to kill any breast cancer cells that remain after surgery. You could receive external beam radiation, which uses a machine to send high-energy X-rays to your body. VHC Health’s AlignRT technology helps keep you safe by tracking your position during treatment. It can pause radiation if you move and may help protect your heart. You won’t need a tattoo to mark the radiation target if your team uses this technology.
You may also qualify for SAVI brachytherapy. It places a tiny, radioactive pellet in a breast tumor to kill early-stage cancer. SAVI reduces radiation to healthy tissue, so you have a lower risk of side effects.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy, or “chemo,” uses strong medicines to kill cancer cells anywhere in your body. You’ll most likely receive it through a vein (IV) at VHC Health’s Outpatient Infusion Center. Caring nurses help keep you comfortable in private treatment areas. Take advantage of TVs, free WiFi, and weekend availability. You’ll have easy access to the Cancer Resource Center’s educational materials, nutrition advice, and other helpful support.
Hormone Therapy
Hormone therapy can help if your breast cancer grows in response to hormones like estrogen or progesterone. It works by blocking these hormones or lowering the amount in your body, which stops cancer cells from growing. You may need daily pills for years to reduce the chance of cancer coming back. Ask your care team for help managing side effects. At VHC Health, you get ongoing follow-up, guidance, and support. So, you can stay on track with treatment and feel confident about your long-term plan.
Risk Factors for Breast Cancer
Your risk of breast cancer increases if you:
- Are over 50 years old
- Have had breast cancer
- Have a mother, grandmother or sister who has had breast cancer
- Began menstruation before you were 12 years old
- Stopped having periods after you were 55 years old
- Eat a diet high in fat
- Are very overweight
- Have never been pregnant
- Had your first baby after you were 30 years old
- Are on estrogen replacement therapy
Warning Signs of Breast Cancer
Ask your doctor how to do monthly breast self-exams. You'll become familiar with the normal shape and feel of your breasts, and you'll more easily find any changes. Call your doctor if you notice:
- Swelling or a thicker feeling in the breast
- Skin that looks dimpled or uneven
- Dry, itchy, or flaky skin
- Nipple pain or discharge
- A change in breast or nipple size or color
- A lump in the breast or under your arm
Most breast lumps are harmless, but you should always tell your doctor about them. Learn how to protect your well-being with our breast health services.
Place of Healing
At VHC Health, the Cancer Resource Center guides you through every step of breast cancer care. Nurses, social workers, and support groups help answer your questions. Expect education, emotional support, and a caring community.
