Breast Cancer Diagnosis
Early and accurate diagnosis is the foundation of good breast cancer outcomes. Mr Sarakbi runs a One Stop Clinic at both Cadogan Clinic and Shirley Oaks Hospital, where patients can receive clinical assessment and diagnostic imaging on the same day — significantly reducing the anxiety of waiting and enabling faster decisions.
Mr Will Sarakbi — Consultant Oncoplastic Breast SurgeonBreast awareness & symptoms
Being aware of your breasts and knowing what is normal for you is the most important step in early detection. Most breast changes are not caused by cancer, but any new or unusual change should be assessed promptly.
Symptoms that warrant assessment include:
- A new lump or thickening in the breast or armpit
- Change in breast size or shape
- Skin dimpling, puckering or tethering
- Nipple inversion, discharge or rash
- Persistent breast pain or discomfort in one area
- Redness or a rash on the skin of the breast
If you notice any of these, you should see your GP or arrange a private assessment. Mr Sarakbi offers prompt appointments for women with breast symptoms.
How breast cancer is diagnosed
Diagnosis involves the "triple assessment" — a clinical examination, imaging (mammogram and/or ultrasound) and a biopsy (if needed). The One Stop Clinic allows all three to be carried out on the same day.
Mammogram
A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast and is the standard imaging test for women over 40 with a breast symptom. It is very effective at identifying calcifications and masses.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound uses sound waves to create an image of the breast. It is particularly useful for younger women (who have denser breast tissue) and for assessing lumps found on examination or mammogram.
Biopsy
If an abnormality is identified on imaging, a tissue sample (biopsy) will be taken. This may be a fine-needle aspiration (FNA) or a core biopsy using a small needle under local anaesthetic. The sample is sent to the pathology laboratory for analysis.
Concerned about a breast symptom? Book a prompt assessment.
Book an AppointmentSame-day assessment
Mr Sarakbi's One Stop Clinic brings together consultation, imaging and biopsy in a single appointment — reducing waiting time and anxiety.
About the One Stop ClinicCommon symptoms include a new lump or thickening, changes in size or shape, skin dimpling, nipple changes (inversion or discharge) and persistent pain. Any new change should be assessed.
As a private patient, appointments are usually available within a few days. The One Stop Clinic means you can have consultation, imaging and biopsy at a single appointment.
No — the vast majority of breast pain (mastalgia) is not related to cancer. However, if you have persistent or localised breast pain, particularly if combined with other symptoms, it is worth having it assessed.
Breast Cancer Diagnosis
Mr Sarakbi explains what you need to know — in his own words.
Book a breast assessment
Available at Cadogan Clinic, Chelsea and Shirley Oaks Hospital, Surrey.