Although treatment for DCIS lowers your risk of DCIS coming back or of invasive breast cancer developing in the treated breast, it does not remove the risk completely. You also have an increased risk of DCIS or invasive breast cancer developing in your other breast compared to women in the general population.
Regular follow-up means that if DCIS comes back or if invasive breast cancer develops it can be found and treated promptly. It also allows your doctors to manage any side effects you might develop from treatment and to give you emotional support.
If you change doctors, ask your new doctor to request your medical records from your previous doctor.
What do follow-up appointments involve?
Appropriate follow-up after diagnosis and treatment for DCIS involves regular mammograms and breast examinations.
Mammogram
If you have had breast conserving surgery, a mammogram on the same side as your surgery is recommended 6–12 months after treatment. Your doctor might recommend you have one earlier. A mammogram of both breasts is recommended once a year after that. Your mammogram should be arranged through your doctor rather than through a breast screening service.
Breast examination
It is recommended that you have a physical examination of your breasts once a year after completing treatment. This is only a guide – your physical examinations could be more often than this. Your doctor will examine both your breasts. If you have had a mastectomy your doctor will examine your chest and armpits.
What happens after follow-up appointments?
If you find a change in your breast or nipple in between appointments, do not wait until the regular appointment. See your GP or specialist as soon as possible if you:
- feel a lump in either breast, or in the breast tissue left on your chest after mastectomy
- notice any changes in either breast, such as nipple discharge, nipple inversion or skin changes
- develop any other symptoms that concern you.
