High-Risk Breast Clinic

One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. This is why the breast care team at the Lynn Women’s Institute believes that individualized breast cancer risk assessments are a key step in cancer prevention and early detection. Women should be aware of their breast cancer risk just as they know their blood pressure, cholesterol and their BMI. Yet sadly, most women wrongly estimate their risk for breast cancer. Without a formal estimation, a woman will be essentially guessing her risk.

  • 45% of women surveyed underestimated their risk for breast cancer which means they are likely missing out on additional surveillance such as Ultrasound or MRI and risk reduction strategies
  • 45% of women surveyed overestimated their risk so they are at risk for over-treatment
  • 40% of women had never discussed their personal risk for breast cancer with their doctors

In our High-Risk Breast Clinic, you will be seen by our Director of Clinical Breast Services, Dr. Cheryl Moss-Mellman. During this visit, she will perform a formalized and comprehensive risk evaluation in addition to a thorough clinical breast exam. She will work closely with you to determine your true risk percentage and design an individualized imaging surveillance plan that includes risk reduction strategies. This information will also be shared with your physician to ensure your healthcare providers are working collaboratively to best serve your needs. For more information or to make your appointment, please call 561.955.2131.

If you are unsure if a visit with our breast health physician is right for you, please take this survey below:

Breast Risk Assessment

The following questions are important in determining your risk.

  • Have you ever been told you have high breast density?
  • Do you have breast implants?
  • Have you had a benign breast biopsy?
  • Have you had prior radiation to the chest area?
  • Do you have a personal or family history of ovarian, colon or breast cancer?
  • Is there a history of breast cancer among your mother, father, brother or sister, or at least two other close relatives?
  • Have you ever taken oral contraceptives or hormone therapy after menopause?
  • Did you get your first menstrual period before 12 years of age?
  • Did you have your first child after 30 or have you never been pregnant?

If you answer yes to any of these questions, you should consider a breast risk assessment in our High-Risk Breast Clinic. To schedule an appointment or for more information call 561.955.2131

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this visit covered by insurance?

Yes, this is an office visit so your insurance company will be billed accordingly. You will also be subject to pay any copayments or deductibles associated with your particular plan.

How often should I have a breast risk assessment?

This will be determined during your appointment with the physician. The outcome of your initial risk assessment will determine when or if follow-up appointments are recommended.

Should I schedule this visit before or after my mammogram?

Ideally, this visit should be scheduled before your breast imaging exams because your risk assessment may indicate you need a different or an additional exam.

Do you perform genetic testing?

During your risk assessment, Dr. Moss-Mellman will utilize sophisticated software to determine your risk score. Should it be determined that you are at high-risk and genetic testing is warranted, we will coordinate an evaluation in our genetics program.