Breast Cancer Care Close to Home

Symptoms can vary, but potential signs may include

• A new lump or thickening in the breast or underarm
• Changes in breast size or shape
• Skin dimpling, puckering, or redness
• Nipple discharge (other than breast milk)
• Flaking or irritation around the nipple
• Persistent breast discomfort or changes in texture
• Any new or concerning breast change should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

While there’s no guaranteed way to prevent breast cancer, there are steps that may help reduce certain risk factors and support overall health. At Nebraska Cancer Specialists, we emphasize education, early detection, and personalized care for patients across Omaha and surrounding Nebraska communities.

Ways to Help Reduce Breast Cancer Risk

Maintain a Healthy Weight
Carrying excess weight, particularly after menopause, has been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer. A balanced diet and regular physical activity can help support overall health.

Stay Physically Active
Regular exercise is associated with a lower risk of several cancers, including breast cancer. Many guidelines recommend about 150 minutes of moderate activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity each week.

Limit Alcohol Intake
Alcohol consumption has been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer. Limiting intake, or avoiding alcohol altogether, may help reduce risk.

Avoid Tobacco Use
Smoking is associated with increased cancer risks, including breast cancer. Quitting tobacco can improve overall health and reduce cancer risk.

Breastfeeding When Possible
For some individuals, breastfeeding may modestly reduce breast cancer risk, especially with longer duration.

Know Your Family History
Genetic factors can play a role in breast cancer risk. If breast cancer runs in your family, genetic counseling and screening recommendations may be helpful.

Routine breast cancer screenings, including mammograms and clinical breast exams, are one of the most effective ways to detect cancer early. Early detection often expands treatment options and may improve outcomes.

Nebraska Cancer Specialists works closely with referring providers and imaging partners to ensure timely evaluation and coordinated care when screening results require further attention.

If breast cancer is diagnosed, treatment recommendations depend on the cancer type, stage, and individual health factors. Options may include:

• Surgery
• Radiation therapy
• Chemotherapy
• Hormone therapy
• Targeted therapy or immunotherapy
• Clinical trial participation

At Nebraska Cancer Specialists, treatment plans are personalized and delivered by an experienced oncology team focused on providing advanced care close to home across Nebraska.

Discovering a lump, unusual pain, or other breast changes can bring understandable anxiety. At Nebraska Cancer Specialists, we recognize how important timely answers are so you can move forward with confidence and focus on your daily life. Our team works closely with imaging partners, pathologists, and referring providers to ensure prompt evaluation, clear communication, and coordinated next steps whenever concerns arise.

Through our comprehensive breast cancer care approach, patients across Omaha and surrounding Nebraska communities have access to advanced diagnostic resources and personalized treatment planning.

These may include:

• Genetic counseling and hereditary cancer risk assessment
• Advanced breast imaging coordination, including mammography and MRI when appropriate
• Image-guided biopsies and minimally invasive diagnostic procedures
• Pathology review and multidisciplinary care planning

Taking an active role in your health can make a meaningful difference. Staying current with recommended mammograms, understanding your family history, and discussing any changes with your healthcare provider are important steps toward early detection and proactive care.

Nebraska Cancer Specialists is here to provide expert guidance, advanced treatment options, and compassionate support every step of the way.

Treatment recommendations depend on the cancer type, stage, biology, and each patient’s individual health needs. Nebraska Cancer Specialists focuses on coordinated oncology care and advanced treatment therapies.

Medical Oncology Treatments

Chemotherapy
Cancer-fighting medications may be used before surgery (neoadjuvant therapy) to shrink tumors or after surgery (adjuvant therapy) to reduce recurrence risk.

Hormone Therapy
For hormone receptor–positive cancers, medications may block estrogen or progesterone to slow or stop cancer growth.

Targeted Therapy
Targeted treatments focus on specific characteristics of cancer cells, offering precision approaches for certain breast cancer types.

Immunotherapy
Some breast cancers may benefit from therapies that help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells.

Clinical Trials
Participation in clinical research studies may provide access to emerging therapies and innovative treatment combinations.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy may be recommended following surgery or as part of a broader treatment plan. NCS coordinates closely with radiation oncology partners to ensure seamless care.

Surgical Care Coordination

While surgery is often an important component of breast cancer treatment, procedures are typically performed by specialized breast surgeons. Nebraska Cancer Specialists works closely with surgical teams to coordinate:

• Lumpectomy (tumor removal)
• Mastectomy options
• Lymph node evaluation procedures

This coordinated approach helps ensure continuity of care before, during, and after surgery.

At Nebraska Cancer Specialists, we understand that breast cancer affects more than just physical health. Our team is here to support you emotionally, physically, and practically,  helping you navigate each step from diagnosis through treatment, recovery, and survivorship.

No matter your stage of care or individual needs, our oncology team remains focused on providing compassionate guidance, clear communication, and coordinated support throughout your journey.

Support Services May Include:

• Cancer rehabilitation resources to help manage strength, mobility, and recovery
• Coordination with reconstructive surgery specialists when appropriate
• Guidance on post-surgical needs such as prosthetics or bra-fitting services
• Support group referrals and emotional wellness resources
• Wig resources and appearance-support services during treatment
• Financial counseling and patient navigation support

Our goal is to help you maintain quality of life during treatment and long after your breast cancer diagnosis — with care that extends beyond medicine to the whole person.

You can count on Nebraska Cancer Specialists to provide expert cancer care close to home, along with the compassion and support you deserve throughout your healthcare journey.

At Nebraska Cancer Specialists, patient care is at the heart of everything we do. Our team is dedicated to providing advanced breast cancer treatment, personalized care planning, and access to evolving therapies , all close to home for patients across Nebraska.

Through participation in clinical research, collaboration with regional healthcare partners, and ongoing investment in innovative treatment approaches, we strive to bring leading-edge cancer care to the communities we serve. This includes advanced diagnostic coordination, modern oncology therapies, and access to clinical trials that may provide additional treatment options for eligible patients.

Nebraska Cancer Specialists is recognized throughout the region for delivering comprehensive community oncology care focused on quality outcomes, compassionate support, and coordinated treatment planning. While research and innovation continue to shape cancer care, our greatest priority remains helping patients navigate their diagnosis with confidence and hope.

We are honored to support patients through every stage of their journey, rom diagnosis and treatment through survivorship and nothing is more meaningful than seeing patients move forward after breast cancer with strength and renewed health.

In many cases, you can schedule a consultation directly. Some insurance plans may require a referral, so it’s always best to check with your provider. Our team can help guide you through the scheduling process and answer any questions before your visit.

Your first appointment typically includes a review of imaging, pathology results, medical history, and discussion of treatment options. You’ll also have time to ask questions and begin developing a personalized treatment plan with your oncology team.

Treatment varies based on the type and stage of cancer but may include:

• Chemotherapy
• Radiation therapy
• Hormone therapy
• Targeted therapy or immunotherapy
• Clinical trial participation

Your oncology team will recommend a plan tailored specifically to your diagnosis and goals.

Breast cancer care often includes more than medical treatment. Patients may have access to:

• Nurse navigators and care coordinators
• Financial counseling and insurance guidance
• Educational resources
• Survivorship planning
• Clinical research opportunities

Our goal is to support both physical and emotional wellbeing throughout treatment.

Nebraska Cancer Specialists participates in clinical research trials that may provide access to emerging therapies. Your oncologist can discuss whether a clinical trial may be appropriate for your specific diagnosis.

You can request an appointment online or contact Nebraska Cancer Specialists directly to connect with a breast cancer specialist. Early consultation can help clarify options and next steps.

Schedule an Appointment