How often do I have to go to the examination?

In the first three years, a control examination with anamnesis and clinical examination is performed quarterly. From the 4th year onwards, this examination is only carried out every six months and from the 6th year onwards at annual intervals. In addition, a mammography must be performed at regular intervals.

In the case of breast-conserving therapy, the affected side is examined semi-annually for the first three years and annually from the 4th year onwards. The non-affected side only needs to be examined once a year by mammography. In the complete removal of the breast, the non-affected side is examined by mammography every 12 months.

What is done in aftercare?

At the beginning of the check-up appointment there is a detailed discussion with a doctor. At each check-up, the operation scars are then checked and the breast or breasts and lymph nodes in the armpit are palpated. During the first appointments the patient is also instructed and encouraged to perform regular palpation on herself. Further physical examination includes weight control, measurement of the arm circumference and examination of the lungs and liver. In addition, a gynecological examination of the genitals is performed at regular intervals.

What is the aftercare pass?

The aftercare pass was introduced in 2011 and is intended to help all physicians involved in aftercare to quickly update their knowledge. It contains all appointments for aftercare and important contact details of the doctors, so that it also provides support for patients. Furthermore, the exact type of tumor and the therapies performed during the primary therapy concept are entered in the aftercare pass. In a further section, other diseases and the current medication can be entered.

Mammography in breast cancer aftercare

Mammography is used for the early detection of secondary tumors in the breast on the primarily affected side or on the other side. It takes place once a year during the follow-up care. Breast-conserving surgery is an exception, as the operated breast is examined with mammography every 6 months for the first three years. It is also important to perform a mammography for both breasts during the breast-conserving therapy, whereas it is sufficient to examine the unaffected side if the breast is removed completely. You can find more information here: Mammography