What We Treat

Breast Cancer Specialist Melbourne

Precision radiation therapy tailored for breast cancer care.
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About Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is the most common cancer affecting women in Australia, and it can also occur in men, though less frequently.

It develops when abnormal cells grow in the breast tissue, forming a lump or tumour that may remain localised or spread to other parts of the body.

There are several types of breast cancer, ranging from early-stage, non-invasive forms to more advanced or aggressive cancers. Treatment options vary depending on the type and stage of the disease, and may include surgery, chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of these approaches. Radiation therapy often plays an important role, particularly after surgery, as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

Radiation Therapy for Breast Cancer Treatment

Your cancer treatment plan is specifically planned and personalised to your specific needs.

Radiation therapy may be used at different times throughout the treatment pathway, and may include:

  • After a mastectomy (where the whole breast is surgically removed) to reduce the risk of cancer returning
  • After lumpectomy surgery (where part of the breast is removed) to target any cancer cells left behind
  • If cancer has spread to the lymph nodes in the armpit or regional lymph node (or a pre-emptive treatment to certain lymph nodes)
  • After chemotherapy or surgery
  • As palliative care for metastatic disease
Icon-Service-EBRT-Blue

External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT)

External Beam Radiation Therapy is one of the most common forms of radiation treatment. It uses a machine called a linear accelerator to direct beams of radiation from outside the body onto the cancer site. Up-to-date techniques such as Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) and Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy (VMAT) allow the radiation dose to be shaped more precisely to the tumour, helping to protect surrounding healthy tissue. EBRT may be recommended for a wide range of cancers.

Your Treatment Journey

Navigating breast cancer treatment can be difficult but we’re here to support you. Our team will guide you step by step through the treatment process, from beginning to end, answering your questions and ensuring you know what to expect. We work closely with other members of your healthcare team, so all information is communicated clearly, and your care is delivered in line with your overall treatment plan.

01

Referral

Before you book an appointment with us you will need to obtain a referral from your doctor or specialist. This helps us to gather all the clinical information required to plan your treatment and allows us to work collaboratively with your healthcare team.

02

Initial Consultation and Treatment Plan

At your initial appointment you'll meet with our team, including our radiation oncologist Dr Mathlum. We'll review your diagnosis and history and help you understand the treatment options available to you. From this, we'll develop a personalised treatment plan.

03

Treatment

Radiation therapy takes place as an outpatient appointment at one of our Victorian clinic locations. Your treatment may be delivered over a number of sessions, depending on your individual treatment plan. Our team will explain the procedure to you and aim to help you feel safe and comfortable throughout the treatment process.

04

Post-Treatment Care

Once your treatment sessions have been delivered, you'll attend follow-up appointments with Dr Mathlum and the team. Post-treatment care helps to monitor your response to treatment, manage any side effects and to continue to support you through your treatment journey.

Benefits of Radiation Therapy

Modern radiation therapy techniques have made it possible to treat breast cancer with greater precision than previous approaches allowed. With advanced planning and delivery, treatment can be shaped and adapted to your individual needs.
  • Precision Technology: Technologies such as IMRT and VMAT allow radiation to be delivered in a more controlled and specific manner.
  • Precise Targeting: Detailed imaging and planning map the exact treatment area, supporting greater accuracy in directing radiation to the tumour site.
  • Healthy tissue preservation: Advanced techniques help to minimise radiation to surrounding healthy tissue and organs.
  • Comprehensive treatment: Radiation therapy is often used as an adjunct treatment to surgery or chemotherapy as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
  • Outpatient care: Sessions are scheduled in the clinic and do not require a hospital stay, allowing you to return home the same day.

Your Breast Cancer Treatment Questions Answered

Radiation therapy is often recommended after breast-conserving surgery and may sometimes be used after a mastectomy. Your oncologist will explain how it fits into your treatment plan based on the type and stage of your cancer.
The number of sessions varies depending on your individual treatment plan. Some people may need daily sessions over several weeks, while others may have shorter courses. Your radiation oncologist will explain your treatment schedule during your initial consultation.
DIBH is a technique where you take a deep breath and hold it briefly during treatment. This moves the heart slightly away from the chest, which can help limit exposure when treating cancers in the left breast, but is also used for the right breast to reduce lung exposure.
Many people are able to maintain their usual routines, although some adjustments may be needed depending on how you feel. Your care team can provide guidance tailored to your situation.
The most common side effects are changes to the skin in the treated area, such as redness, dryness, or peeling, along with tiredness. You may also notice temporary swelling or a feeling of heaviness in the breast. Your team will explain what is most relevant to your treatment and support you in managing any effects.
In some cases, radiation therapy may be considered again, but this depends on factors such as the type of treatment you received previously and the area being treated. Your oncologist will advise if this is an option for you.
Up to 90% of radiation oncology is covered under Medicare, and you do not need private health insurance to access treatment. Our team can provide information on any out-of-pocket costs once your treatment plan has been developed.

Why Choose Us?

Accessible Care

Dr Mathlum consults and treats from multiple locations across Melbourne, Geelong, Werribee, and Ballarat. There are no waiting times on treatment at our clinics, making it easier to access care whenever and wherever you need it.

Precision Technologies and Treatment

We use advanced techniques and remain actively involved in the latest developments in radiation technologies and methods. We regularly check for lymphedema throughout your treatment, ensuring your care is carefully planned, managed and delivered with accuracy.

Experienced and Supportive Team

Your care is led by Dr Maitham Mathlum, a radiation oncologist with more than 25 years of clinical experience, working with a team of supportive nurses dedicated to providing guidance, reassurance, and care throughout your treatment journey.

Referrals from Practitioners

Radiation Oncologist

We welcome referrals from general practitioners, surgeon, oncologists and other specialists involved in the care of patients with breast cancer.

Our approach is centred on collaborative treatment planning, working closely with referring clinicians and other specialists to ensure radiation therapy is delivered in line with each patient’s overall treatment pathway.

If you have any questions about patient referrals or would like to discuss a specific case, please don’t hesitate to contact us. 

25 Years

Clinical Experience

Clinical Trials

Active Research

Training

Radiology Education

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Personalised Support for Every Patient

A breast cancer diagnosis can feel daunting, but you don’t have to face the decisions about treatment on your own. If radiation therapy is part of your treatment, we are here to guide you through each stage with professionalism and care.

To get started, request a referral from your GP or specialist and contact our clinic to arrange your first appointment.

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