The UC Irvine Breast Health Center brings together a full spectrum of diagnostic and treatment programs for breast health, all under one roof.

Select a Breast Health Center physician »

Comprehensive Approach

Located on the third floor of the Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, our multispecialty facility includes examination rooms, mammography units, a stereotactic center, ultrasound system and patient education room. That means patients can receive a variety of different diagnostic tests in a single day, and receive the results within hours or days–not weeks.

We provide:

• Collaborative management of patient care
• Support groups and psychosocial services
• Nutritional education and counseling
• Patient education
• Image enhancement and support services

Minimally Invasive Diagnostics

Some tests such as mammography are completely noninvasive. When more information is needed, minimally invasive methods may be used, including stereotactic biopsy and ultrasound-guided biopsy. These provide accurate diagnoses with the least amount of trauma to breast tissue. Additional diagnostic procedures may include pre-biopsy needle localization and ductography.

New imaging technologies such as digital mammography and breast MRI are now also available to patients at the Breast Health Center. These methods offer women the latest in computer-aided breast imaging services.

Treatment Options

If cancer is discovered, the Breast Health Center is a woman’s first choice for specialized, comprehensive care.  A multidisciplinary team of physicians is available to meet with patients to discuss treatment options and other important issues. All treatment services are located in the same building, including surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy.  Because we are part of a university-based hospital, our patients also have access to clinical trials of promising new chemotherapy drugs and diagnostic technologies such as optical laser and whole-breast ultrasound scanning.

Learn more about clinical trials »

Conserving the Breast

Doctors at the Breast Health Center understand a woman’s concerns over breast aesthetics.  In nearly 80 percent of cases, cancer can be eradicated without removing the entire breast. Breast-conserving procedures include lumpectomy, partial mastectomy, sentinel lymph node dissection, chemotherapy and radiation therapy. By combining cancer surgery with plastic surgery, our surgeons can provide optimal results.

Image Enhancement and Support Center

Founded by The Associates, a UC Irvine Medical Center support group, the Image Enhancement and Support Center is staffed by volunteers skilled in helping patients with their appearance during treatment and recovery.

Patients receive a free, private image consultation in a friendly, comfortable setting. Prosthetic products, wigs, cosmetics, clothing and other items are available at a nominal cost.  Consultants help with selection, fittings and special corrective techniques that can help patients enhance their image and increase their social confidence.

More »