Oncology

Breast Cancer Treatment in Istanbul

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women, and its treatment is tailored to the biological features of the tumour. New City Clinic coordinates assessment and treatment with the oncology, breast surgery and gynaecological oncology teams of its partner hospitals in Istanbul.

Assessment and diagnosis

Before a treatment plan is made, the type and stage of the disease are established. This usually involves:

  • Mammography, breast ultrasound and, where needed, breast MRI
  • Core needle biopsy with hormone receptors, HER2 and Ki-67
  • CT of chest and abdomen, bone scan or PET-CT according to stage
  • Genetic counselling (BRCA) if there is a strong family history of breast or ovarian cancer

Treatment approaches

Treatment is planned by the tumour board according to tumour size, the armpit lymph nodes and the biological subtype. In early disease, breast-conserving surgery followed by radiotherapy is common; some patients need removal of the whole breast (mastectomy), with reconstruction in the same operation or later. Sentinel lymph node biopsy is usually done in the armpit. Drug treatment may be given before or after surgery; hormone therapy lasting several years is added for hormone-receptor-positive tumours and targeted treatment for HER2-positive tumours.

  • Breast-conserving surgery or mastectomy; sentinel lymph node biopsy
  • Breast reconstruction in the same operation or later
  • Radiotherapy
  • Drug, hormone and targeted treatments before or after surgery

The tumour board decides which methods are used and in what order. The treatment plan is determined after a physician’s examination and assessment of your tests.

For patients from Europe, the Middle East and Africa

New City Clinic coordinates oncology care for patients travelling from European countries, the Middle East and Africa. Istanbul has direct flights from many capitals in these regions, and the assessment starts from your reports before you travel.

  • You can send your reports in English or in your own language; the necessary translations are arranged.
  • For patients from countries that need a visa, a hospital appointment and invitation letter is provided for the application.
  • Airport welcome, accommodation close to the hospital and arrangements for a companion are organised.
  • Your treatment summary is prepared in English so that you can share it with your oncologist at home.

Partner hospitals with oncology centres

Oncology care is coordinated at the following partner hospitals, which have oncology centres. The hospital is chosen according to your condition, your physician and your preference.

How the process works

  1. 1

    Send your documents

    Pathology report, imaging reports and images, discharge summaries and a list of your medication.

  2. 2

    Physician’s review

    Your file goes to the relevant oncology physician; missing tests and a possible pathway are set out for you in writing.

  3. 3

    Plan and quote

    The expected tests, treatment steps, length of stay and itemised costs are given in writing.

  4. 4

    Treatment in Istanbul

    Airport welcome, accommodation, appointments and interpreting are organised by New City Clinic.

  5. 5

    Follow-up

    You receive your treatment summary and reports to share with your physician at home.

Frequently asked questions

Can it be treated without removing the breast?

In early disease and suitable tumours, breast-conserving surgery followed by radiotherapy is considered as safe as mastectomy. The tumour board decides which is right for you.

Can reconstruction be done in the same operation?

In suitable patients, yes; options using an implant or your own tissue are planned together with a plastic surgeon.

Which documents should I send?

The pathology report, CT/MRI/PET-CT reports and, if possible, the images themselves, operation and discharge reports, blood tests and your medication list.

Can you give any assurance about the outcome?

No. No institution can guarantee the result of cancer treatment. Your physician will explain expectations and risks for your situation openly.

How is the cost determined?

It depends on the tests required and on the type and length of treatment. An itemised written quote follows the physician’s assessment.

Other cancer types

Back to the oncology section

This page is for general information and is not a diagnosis or treatment recommendation. A treatment plan is determined only after a physician’s examination and assessment of your tests. In an emergency, contact your local medical services.

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Send your photos and questions; a surgeon’s assessment and your quote usually arrive within 24 hours. The consultation is free and without obligation.

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