Breast cancer second opinions in Toledo
A new diagnosis comes with a lot of information and a lot of decisions. A second opinion is a normal part of good cancer care. It does not obligate you to change doctors. Its purpose is to make sure you understand the options and feel confident in the plan.
- Step 1Call567-368-1490. Mention that you are seeking a second opinion.
- Step 2RecordsThe team requests your records ahead of the visit.
- Step 3The visitReview, examination, and a plain-language explanation.
- Step 4Your planContinue where you started or move your care to Mercy Health.
When a second opinion helps
Anyone with a breast cancer diagnosis can ask for a second opinion. It is especially worth it when:
- You have been told you need a mastectomy and want to know whether lumpectomy is an option
- You have been offered lumpectomy and are considering mastectomy, or the reverse
- You have DCIS and want to understand the choices about surgery, radiation, and endocrine therapy
- A genetic test or family history has raised questions about risk-reducing surgery
- The cancer has come back, or the plan involves treatment before surgery
- The plan does not make sense to you yet, or you feel rushed
Is there time for a second opinion?
Usually, yes. Most breast cancers have been present for months to years before they are found, and taking a short time to gather the right information is safe for most people. Ask your doctor how much time you have. The office will try to see you promptly, and records can be requested before the visit so nothing is held up.
What the visit covers
- A review of your imaging and pathology reports
- An examination
- A plain-language explanation of the diagnosis: what kind of breast cancer it is, its stage, and what the receptor results mean
- Your surgical options, the order of treatment, and whether genetic testing should come first
- Time for every question on your list
Dr. Mabry is happy to talk with your current doctors. Whether you continue your care where you started or move it to Mercy Health, the goal is the same: a plan you understand and trust. Virtual visits are available.
How to request a second opinion
Call the office at 567-368-1490 and mention that you are seeking a second opinion, so the team can request your records ahead of the visit. Physicians can refer directly at the same number. Please include imaging reports and pathology when available.
What to bring
- Your imaging (mammogram, ultrasound, MRI) on disc, or a signed release so it can be requested
- Biopsy and pathology reports
- Any genetic testing results
- A list of medications and allergies
- Your insurance card and photo ID
- Your questions, written down, and someone to take notes
Insurance
Many insurance plans, including Medicare, cover a second opinion when surgery has been recommended. Some plans require a referral first. Check with your plan, or ask the office when you call.
Why Dr. Mabry
Dr. Mabry's practice has been entirely breast-focused for more than 20 years. She trained in oncoplastic breast surgery with Dr. Melvin Silverstein at the University of Southern California, then worked with Dr. Armando Giuliano at the John Wayne Cancer Institute, where she ran the weekly multidisciplinary tumor board. Her research has focused on DCIS, surgical margins, and sentinel lymph node mapping. More about Dr. Mabry.