The Best Treatment Approach for Breast Cancer: Dr. Ashutosh Tondare Explains a Step-by-Step Plan
One of the most common questions patients ask after a breast cancer diagnosis is:
“What is the best treatment for breast cancer?”
According to Dr. Ashutosh Tondare, a specialist in breast cancer treatment and oncoplastic surgery, the answer is never a single procedure or medicine. The best treatment approach for breast cancer is a step-by-step, personalised process that balances medical safety, long-term survival, and quality of life.
For patients confused by multiple opinions, internet searches, and well-meaning advice, clarity comes from understanding the right sequence of care, not shortcuts.
Step 1: Accurate Diagnosis Is the Foundation
The most important step in breast cancer treatment is getting the diagnosis right.
A complete diagnostic evaluation includes:
- Detailed clinical breast examination
- Breast imaging (mammography, ultrasound, MRI when required)
- Image-guided biopsy to confirm cancer type
- Assessment of tumour biology (hormone receptors, HER2 status)
- Evaluation of lymph node involvement
Without precise diagnosis, treatment decisions may be either inadequate or excessive. Dr. Ashutosh Tondare strongly emphasises that breast cancer treatment should never begin without clarity on stage and tumour behaviour.
Step 2: Choosing the Right Breast Cancer Surgery
Surgery is often the cornerstone of breast cancer treatment in India, but it is not the same for every patient.
Common surgical options include:
- Breast Conservation Surgery (Lumpectomy)
Removal of the tumour with a margin of healthy tissue, preserving the breast.
Ideal for early-stage breast cancer and usually followed by radiotherapy. - Mastectomy
Complete removal of the breast, recommended when conservation is not oncologically safe or when the patient prefers it. - Oncoplastic Breast Surgery
Combines cancer removal with cosmetic reshaping to maintain breast appearance and symmetry.
Dr. Tondare highlights that the best breast cancer surgery is the one that removes cancer completely while preserving confidence whenever safely possible.
Step 3: Lymph Node Evaluation Matters
Lymph node status plays a crucial role in deciding further treatment.
Options include:
- Sentinel lymph node biopsy for early disease
- Axillary lymph node dissection when nodes are involved
This step helps determine:
- Need for chemotherapy
- Need for radiotherapy
- Long-term prognosis
Over-treatment of lymph nodes can lead to complications like arm swelling, so precision matters.
Step 4: Deciding on Chemotherapy, Radiation & Hormonal Therapy
Not every breast cancer patient needs all treatments.
Treatment decisions depend on:
- Tumour size and grade
- Lymph node involvement
- Hormone receptor and HER2 status
- Overall health of the patient
Non-surgical treatments may include:
- Chemotherapy to reduce recurrence risk
- Radiation therapy, especially after breast conservation surgery
- Hormonal therapy for hormone-positive cancers
- Targeted therapy for specific tumour types
The key principle Dr. Ashutosh follows is:
“Use what is necessary, avoid what is not.”
Step 5: Breast Reconstruction Is Part of Recovery
For patients undergoing mastectomy, breast reconstruction is an important option.
Reconstruction can be:
- Implant-based
- Tissue-based
- Immediate or delayed
Breast reconstruction does not interfere with cancer treatment and can significantly improve emotional recovery and body image.
Modern breast cancer care focuses on healing both the body and mind.
Step 6: Recovery, Rehabilitation & Follow-Up
The best treatment approach does not end with surgery or chemotherapy.
Comprehensive recovery includes:
- Pain management and wound care
- Shoulder and arm physiotherapy
- Lymphedema prevention
- Emotional and psychological support
- Nutritional guidance
Regular follow-up helps in:
- Early detection of recurrence
- Managing long-term side effects
- Supporting survivorship
Why There Is No “One Best Treatment”
Dr. Ashutosh Tondare emphasises that there is no single best treatment for all breast cancer patients.
The best outcomes come from:
- Early diagnosis
- Correct sequencing of treatments
- Personalised planning
- Honest doctor–patient communication
Patients should feel empowered to ask questions and understand why each step is recommended.
Final Perspective
The best treatment approach for breast cancer is not aggressive treatment, but appropriate treatment. When diagnosis is accurate, surgery is precise, and additional therapies are thoughtfully chosen, patients can expect excellent outcomes with preserved quality of life.
For those confused by multiple opinions, clarity lies in trusting a structured, step-wise approach guided by a dedicated breast cancer specialist.
Disclaimer:
This blog is intended for educational purposes only. Readers should not treat this information as medical advice for their condition. It is very important that an in-person consultation be conducted with an expert before taking any medication or treatment.
