Breast Surgery in Athens, GA
If you have been told you may need breast surgery, it is natural to have questions and concerns. At St. Mary’s Health Care System, we provide clear guidance, personalized care, and a supportive environment so you can move forward with confidence and peace of mind.
Expert Surgical Care for Breast Conditions in Northeast Georgia
What Is Breast Surgery?
Breast surgery includes a range of procedures used to diagnose, treat, or manage conditions affecting the breast. While some surgeries are related to cancer care, many are performed to address non-cancerous conditions such as cysts, benign tumors, or structural concerns.
Our goal is to provide the right level of care for your needs while preserving comfort, function, and overall well-being.
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What is Breast Surgery For?
Breast surgery can help relieve symptoms, confirm a diagnosis, or treat conditions that affect your health and quality of life.
At St. Mary’s, we focus on:
- Accurate diagnosis and effective treatment
- Minimally invasive techniques whenever possible
- Personalized care plans based on your needs
- Clear communication so you feel informed and supported
We take time to ensure you understand your options and feel confident in your care plan.
Conditions Treated with Breast Surgery
Breast surgery is used to treat a wide range of conditions, including:
- Benign breast lumps such as fibroadenomas
- Breast cysts that cause discomfort or concern
- Infections or abscesses
- Abnormal findings from imaging or biopsy
- Structural or cosmetic concerns affecting comfort
If your condition is cancer-related, we will guide you to the appropriate specialized care.
Types of Breast Surgery Procedures
Lumpectomy for Benign Conditions
Removal of a lump or abnormal tissue while preserving the surrounding breast tissue.
Excisional Biopsy
A surgical procedure used to remove an area of concern for further examination when a needle biopsy is not sufficient.
Cyst or Abscess Drainage
Treatment for fluid-filled areas or infections that cause discomfort or swelling.
Minimally Invasive Breast Surgery
Whenever possible, we use techniques that reduce scarring, shorten recovery time, and improve overall comfort.
Your surgeon will explain which approach is best for your specific condition.
What to Expect During Breast Surgery
Before Surgery
You will meet with your care team to review your diagnosis, discuss your options, and plan your procedure. This is a time to ask questions and feel fully informed.
During the Procedure
Your surgery will be performed in a safe, comfortable setting. Depending on the procedure, you may receive local or general anesthesia.
After Surgery
Most breast surgeries are outpatient procedures, allowing you to return home the same day. Your care team will provide clear instructions for recovery.
Recovery and Ongoing Care after Breast Surgery
Recovery varies depending on the type of surgery, but most patients experience a relatively smooth healing process.
We support you with:
- Clear recovery guidelines
- Follow-up appointments to monitor healing
- Coordination with imaging or additional care if needed
- Ongoing support to ensure your comfort and well-being
If further treatment is needed, we guide you through the next steps with care and clarity.
Breast Surgery at St. Mary’s Breast Health Center
Breast surgery care is closely coordinated through:
St. Mary’s Breast Health Center in Athens, GA
This specialized center provides:
- A supportive, patient-focused environment
- Coordination between imaging, diagnosis, and surgery
- Access to experienced breast care specialists
- Seamless care from evaluation through recovery
Your experience is designed to feel coordinated, respectful, and centered on your needs.
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Meet Your Breast Care Specialist
Kathleen Jeffery, MD – Breast Surgery
Dr. Kathleen Jeffery provides expert surgical care for a wide range of breast conditions, both cancerous and non-cancerous.
She is known for her thoughtful, patient-centered approach, taking time to explain each option clearly and help you feel confident in your care decisions. Her goal is to provide effective treatment while supporting your comfort, confidence, and long-term well-being.
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A Connected Approach to Breast Surgery
At St. Mary’s, your care is part of a larger, coordinated system.
Our teams collaborate to ensure:
- Clear communication between providers
- Personalized treatment plans
- Smooth transitions between imaging, diagnosis, and surgery
This connected approach helps you move through your care journey with confidence and support.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Breast Surgery
No. Many breast surgeries are performed to treat non-cancerous conditions such as cysts, benign tumors, or infections.
If cancer is suspected or confirmed, we will guide you to specialized care and support you every step of the way.
Most breast surgeries are outpatient procedures, meaning you can go home the same day.
Your care team will let you know what to expect based on your specific procedure.
Recovery time varies depending on the type of surgery.
Many patients return to normal activities within a few days to a couple of weeks, with guidance from their care team.
Some scarring is expected, but we use techniques to minimize its appearance whenever possible.
We will also provide guidance on how to care for your incision as it heals.
You may experience some discomfort after surgery, but it is usually manageable with medication and proper care.
We will make sure you feel prepared and supported throughout your recovery.
In many cases, a biopsy is performed before surgery to better understand the condition.
This helps guide the most appropriate treatment plan.
Depending on the procedure, there may be changes in shape or appearance.
Your surgeon will discuss this with you ahead of time so you know what to expect.
If additional care is needed, such as imaging or specialized treatment, we will coordinate everything for you.
You will not have to navigate the next steps alone.
Your procedure will be performed by an experienced breast surgeon who specializes in these types of conditions.
You will meet your surgeon ahead of time and have the opportunity to ask questions.
Your provider may recommend surgery based on imaging results, symptoms, or biopsy findings.
We will help you understand why it is recommended and what your options are.
Take the Next Step with Confidence
If you have been recommended for breast surgery or have concerns about your breast health, our team is here to guide you with clarity, compassion, and expertise.
Schedule a consultation at St. Mary’s Breast Health Center and take the next step with a care team you trust.
Related Locations
St. Mary's Breast Health Center
1500 Oglethorpe Ave Ste 2100
Athens, GA 30606
