Breast Cancer Care in Portland and Vancouver

At Compass Oncology, we are dedicated to supporting you through the complexities of a breast cancer diagnosis.
Compass-Pillar-Breast-Cancer-Banner-Pic-3

 

 

Compass-Pillar-Lung-Cancer-Banner-Pic-4

Our compassionate team of breast cancer specialists takes the time to get to know you, answer your questions, and create a personalized treatment plan that fits your specific diagnosis, stage, and preferences.

With locations in Portland and Vancouver, we combine advanced treatment options with a collaborative, patient-centered approach to make sure you feel supported, informed, and confident throughout your care.

Compass-Pillar-Lung-Cancer-Next-Steps-Pic-1

Next Steps After a Breast Cancer Diagnosis

Whether you've recently been diagnosed, are seeking a second opinion, or are exploring clinical trial options, the breast cancer specialists at Compass Oncology are here to guide you. Our team has developed a helpful resource to walk you through what to expect, from understanding your diagnosis to preparing for your first appointment. You'll also find practical tips and information to help you take confident steps as you begin your breast cancer treatment journey.

A Team Approach to Breast Cancer Treatment

At Compass Oncology, breast cancer care is a collaborative effort. Our breast cancer experts – including medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and surgical oncologists – work together to create a treatment plan tailored to you.

A breast cancer nurse navigator is also part of your team. This person serves as your personal guide through breast cancer treatment, coordinating with your physicians, advanced practice providers, social workers, and patient benefit representatives to ensure a smooth treatment process. The nurse navigator will talk with you about your needs, develop an individualized education plan, coordinate community resources, and offer you support where needed.

This comprehensive approach allows you to receive support every step of the way, from diagnosis through survivorship.

breast_cancer_cover_newly_diagnosed

Free Guide for Newly Diagnosed Breast Cancer Patients

Get helpful tips on what to expect and how to prepare yourself for breast cancer treatment.

Breast Cancer Treatment Options

Most patients receive multiple types of treatment as part of the overall plan. The order and timing of each are individualized based on the stage of the cancer.

Systemic Breast Cancer Treatments

Thanks to advancements in breast cancer research, medical oncology treatments are more personalized than ever. Depending on your type of breast cancer, genetic changes, and the cancer’s stage, treatment can include one or more of the following drug therapies: chemotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Your Compass Oncology breast cancer oncologist will talk to you about which of these are right for you.

Breast Cancer Surgery

Surgery is almost always part of the breast cancer treatment plan. Depending on your diagnosis, this may include a lumpectomy (breast-conserving surgery) or mastectomy (removal of the breast). Our experienced breast cancer surgeons will recommend a procedure and meet with the other physicians on our team to discuss the right timing. If you're considering breast reconstruction, our team will discuss your options and help you make a plan that aligns with your goals.

Radiation Therapy for Breast Cancer

Many patients receive radiation therapy as part of their treatment plan for breast cancer. It can be given before surgery, after surgery, or in some cases, both to be sure that all of the cancer cells are killed in the breast. At Compass Oncology, our radiation oncologists work closely with the rest of your care team to determine if and when radiation therapy should be part of your personalized treatment plan.

Breast Cancer Clinical Trials

In partnership with Sarah Cannon Research Institute, Compass Oncology offers patients access to the latest treatment options, including breast cancer clinical trials. These research studies explore new therapies and combinations that may not be widely available. Your oncologist can help determine if a clinical trial fits your diagnosis and treatment goals.

breast-cancer-types

Breast Cancer Type

The specific type of breast cancer—such as ductal, lobular, or inflammatory—helps determine which treatments will be most effective.

breast-cancer-hormone-status

Hormone Receptor & HER2 Status

Testing for hormone receptors (estrogen and progesterone) and HER2 status helps your care team identify whether targeted therapies or hormone-blocking treatments may be beneficial.

breast-cancer-lymph-node

Lymph Node Involvement

When cancer reaches the lymph nodes, a different treatment approach is used. Your breast surgeon will perform a lymph node biopsy to get answers.

breast-cancer-staging

Stage of Breast Cancer

Once breast cancer is diagnosed from a breast biopsy, additional tests are run, and possibly even a lymph node biopsy is completed. Based on the information available, the oncologist will determine the stage of cancer.

Life After Breast Cancer Treatment

Finishing treatment is a significant milestone, but it also marks the beginning of a new phase. Survivorship comes with its own set of needs—from follow-up care to emotional support. Our team is here to help you navigate life after treatment and maintain your health and well-being.

High-Risk Breast Clinic at Compass Oncology

Clinicians in the High-Risk Breast Clinic are dedicated to educating patients and their families about their risk of developing breast cancer and providing interventions to reduce risk and increase the odds of early detection.

Breast Cancer FAQs

What are the signs and symptoms of breast cancer?

Common signs of breast cancer include a lump in the breast or underarm, changes in breast size, shape, or skin, or nipple discharge. However, some breast cancers don’t show symptoms, which is why regular screening is so important.

Learn more about the signs of breast cancer.

Can I be screened for breast cancer?

Yes. Breast cancer screening typically includes mammograms, which are recommended annually or every other year for women ages 40 and up, depending on personal risk factors and medical guidelines. Keeping up with regular screening increases the chances of early detection of breast cancer, improving treatment outcomes.

Talk to your doctor about the right screening schedule for you.

How fast does breast cancer grow?

The growth rate of breast cancer depends on its type and grade. Some types, like triple-negative breast cancer, tend to grow more quickly, while others may progress more slowly. Your oncologist will assess the biology of your cancer to guide treatment timing.

How is breast cancer diagnosed?

Diagnosis usually involves a combination of imaging tests (such as mammography, ultrasound, or MRI) and a biopsy to confirm cancer and determine its type. Additional tests help stage the disease and guide treatment planning.

Learn more about breast cancer detection and diagnosis.

Is your breast cancer hereditary?

While most breast cancers are not inherited, about 5–10% are linked to genetic mutations such as BRCA1 or BRCA2. Our genetic counselors are available to help you understand your personal risk of developing breast cancer and decide whether genetic testing may be right for you.

Learn about the genetics of breast cancer.

What are the signs and symptoms of breast cancer?

What are the signs and symptoms of breast cancer?

Common signs of breast cancer include a lump in the breast or underarm, changes in breast size, shape, or skin, or nipple discharge. However, some breast cancers don’t show symptoms, which is why regular screening is so important.

Learn more about the signs of breast cancer.

Can I be screened for breast cancer?

Can I be screened for breast cancer?

Yes. Breast cancer screening typically includes mammograms, which are recommended annually or every other year for women ages 40 and up, depending on personal risk factors and medical guidelines. Keeping up with regular screening increases the chances of early detection of breast cancer, improving treatment outcomes.

Talk to your doctor about the right screening schedule for you.

How fast does breast cancer grow?

How fast does breast cancer grow?

The growth rate of breast cancer depends on its type and grade. Some types, like triple-negative breast cancer, tend to grow more quickly, while others may progress more slowly. Your oncologist will assess the biology of your cancer to guide treatment timing.

How is breast cancer diagnosed?

How is breast cancer diagnosed?

Diagnosis usually involves a combination of imaging tests (such as mammography, ultrasound, or MRI) and a biopsy to confirm cancer and determine its type. Additional tests help stage the disease and guide treatment planning.

Learn more about breast cancer detection and diagnosis.

Is your breast cancer hereditary?

Is your breast cancer hereditary?

While most breast cancers are not inherited, about 5–10% are linked to genetic mutations such as BRCA1 or BRCA2. Our genetic counselors are available to help you understand your personal risk of developing breast cancer and decide whether genetic testing may be right for you.

Learn about the genetics of breast cancer.