Personalised, patient-centred breast care
For us, it’s critical our patients remain at the centre of the care, and that the care delivered is completely individualised. From the moment a patient arrives with us we are by their side, fully supported by a Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS). We can offer same-day appointments Monday to Friday from 9am until 5pm, with some evening appointments also available.
The unit, located at The Wellington Hospital in St John’s Wood, is home to a One-Stop Breast Clinic, a rapid access, consultant-led service, where a patient’s breast concerns can be investigated using the very latest digital mammography, clinically appropriate imaging can be undertaken and results can be given, in a single visit. Open since 2011, we have established a reputation for providing a consistently high standard of care that requires a relentless focus on quality, expertise and support for patients whatever the outcome.
Our strength lies within the excellence of our clinical teams; we have an exceptional team of consultants, nursing and therapy staff whose skills and experience enable us to care for all breast care needs.
A comprehensive, one-stop breast service
Medical history and clinical breast examination
To start, your consultant will talk to you about your medical and family history before examining your breasts and lymph glands.
Mammogram or ultrasound or both
Next, you'll have a mammogram or ultrasound scan (or both) by specialist radiographers so your consultant can get a clear, detailed picture of your breast tissue. In most cases the results can be given on the same day.
Image guided biopsy (if needed)
If your consultant wants to investigate further, they do a biopsy. For your peace of mind, we see you again two to three days after your assessment to talk you through your results. If it's not the result you were hoping for, your consultant acts quickly to create a treatment plan for you.
You can self refer to the breast unit
We offer a self-referral breast mammography service. Every mammogram is reported by two independent consultant radiologists and we provide results (including a written report) within 48-72 hours. This is offered to women who meet the self-referral criteria:
- Are aged 40 and above
- Are asymptomatic (no symptoms)
- Are fit and healthy
- Haven’t had a mammogram for 12 months
The results of your mammogram will be sent to your named clinician so please ensure we have the most up to date details for your clinician. You will need to contact them directly for your results.
State-of-the-art imaging technology
3D Hologic Mammography Machine
Breast 3T MRI scan
Did you know?
9 out of 10
breast lumps investigated are found to be benign. However it’s important for women to have breast screening and have any concerns diagnosed.
Key breast treatment options
Oncoplastic procedures
Inpatient and outpatient chemotherapy
Radiotherapy
Menopausal clinic following breast cancer treatment
Genetic testing
We provide access to the latest, validated hereditary cancer gene panel tests, which are not routinely available elsewhere. Genetic testing is particularly useful for patients with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer as they may be at risk of carrying the BRCA 1 or 2 gene mutation.
Detecting these genes is beneficial as carriers of these genes are more susceptible to breast and ovarian cancer.
Carrying out genetic testing can be particularly empowering for patients as they can make informed choices about further management and surveillance options where necessary.
If you are concerned about an increased risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer, you can speak to one of our specialists.
Seamless, continuous multidisciplinary care for patients
We take a multidisciplinary approach to providing the right diagnosis and treatment plan if cancer is discovered. Our multidisciplinary team is composed of Consultant breast/oncoplastic surgeons, Consultant radiologists, Consultant plastic surgeons, Consultant pathologists, Consultant oncologists, Mammographers and Clinical Nurse Specialists.
In addition, there may be other healthcare professional involved in your care including our Physiotherapists, Dieticians, Clinical psychologists, Complimentary therapists, Lymphoedema specialists, Prosthesis fitters and Oncology pharmacists.
Specialist care for our patients
The comprehensive care you will receive also includes giving you your confidence back. Specialising in nipple and areola tattoos for patients who have had breast cancer and reconstructive surgery, Sarah has a kind and professional approach with meticulous attention to detail, always looking for the best, most natural looking result possible. Often creating a 3D looking nipple, Sarah is able to match the size, shape, colour and details of the existing nipple/areola in order to achieve perfect symmetry for our patients.
The nipple/areola tattoo requires two treatments, approximately six weeks apart. Sarah uses a topical anaesthetic to ensure that patients are comfortable and relaxed. Each treatment can take up to two hours, including a brief medical history, drawing the areola and allowing time for the anaesthetic to take effect. Most patients can return to work immediately as there is no ‘down time’, although the area may feel a little sore for a few hours.
Sarah Fogel
Medical Tattoo Specialist
Our location
Platinum Medical Centre, The Breast Care Unit
15-17 Lodge Road
London NW8 7JA
You'll find us at The Wellington Hospital in St John's Wood, North West London.
Contact The Wellington Breast Unit
We are located in the Platinum Medical Centre on 15-17 Lodge Road, London NW8 7JA. If you would like to make an appointment please call us, we’ll be happy to help.