Choosing the right breast cancer surgeon is vital. The best combine skill, compassion, and a team-based approach for optimal outcomes. Across the U.S., a select few stand out for their innovation, leadership, and exceptional patient care. Here are five of the top-rated.
1. Dr. Elisa Port, MD, FACS
Affiliation: Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, NY
Position: Chief of Breast Surgery, Co-Director of the Dubin Breast Center
Why She’s Top-Rated:
Dr. Port is one of the most recognized names in breast oncology. Known for her surgical precision and holistic approach to patient care, she has helped thousands of women navigate breast cancer with confidence. She’s also an advocate for early detection and patient education.
Pioneer in sentinel lymph node biopsy
Frequently featured in Castle Connolly’s Top Doctors
Author of The New Generation Breast Cancer Book
2. Dr. Monica Morrow, MD
Affiliation: Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
Position: Chief of the Breast Surgery Service
Why She’s Top-Rated:
Dr. Morrow is internationally respected for her research and clinical expertise in breast cancer surgery. She specializes in breast-conserving surgery and has authored over 500 scientific papers, making her a leader in shaping national surgical guidelines.
Former president of the Society of Surgical Oncology
Focus on minimizing overtreatment and improving surgical outcomes
Recognized as one of America’s leading academic surgeons
3. Dr. Armando E. Giuliano, MD
Affiliation: Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA
Position: Executive Vice Chair, Department of Surgery
Why He’s Top-Rated:
Dr. Giuliano is known for changing the global standard of care through his research on lymph node management. His landmark clinical trials have helped reduce unnecessary surgeries for women with breast cancer.
Developed the sentinel lymph node biopsy technique
One of the most cited breast surgeons in medical literature
Advocate for less invasive treatment options
4. Dr. Susan Love, MD, MBA (In Memoriam)
Affiliation: Dr. Susan Love Foundation for Breast Cancer Research (Los Angeles, CA)
Legacy: Surgeon, researcher, and activist
Why She’s Top-Rated:
Though she passed in 2023, Dr. Susan Love remains a towering figure in breast cancer care. She was a trailblazer in breast surgery and a fierce advocate for women-centered research. Her work helped shift breast cancer treatment from aggressive surgeries to evidence-based, patient-focused care.
Author of Dr. Susan Love’s Breast Book
Founder of the Love Research Army
Paved the way for patient advocacy in breast oncology
5. Dr. Shelley Hwang, MD, MPH
Affiliation: Duke Cancer Institute, Durham, NC
Position: Chief of Breast Surgery, Vice Chair of Research
Why She’s Top-Rated:
Dr. Hwang is a leader in breast cancer innovation, particularly in active surveillance for DCIS (ductal carcinoma in situ) and the development of personalized surgical approaches. She blends advanced science with thoughtful patient care.
Focus on tailored treatments and minimally invasive surgery
Prominent voice in breast cancer risk reduction research
Frequent contributor to national cancer guidelines
Choosing the Right Breast Cancer Surgeon
When selecting a breast cancer surgeon, consider:
Board certification and experience in breast-specific oncology
Hospital affiliation with a comprehensive cancer center
Willingness to collaborate with oncologists, radiologists, and reconstructive surgeons
Patient communication style, compassion, and responsiveness
Access to clinical trials and advanced treatment options
Final Thoughts
Breast cancer is a deeply personal journey, and having the right surgeon by your side can make a world of difference. The professionals highlighted here are not only top-rated for their skill but also for their dedication to advancing care and supporting patients through every step of treatment.
If you or a loved one are facing a breast cancer diagnosis, consider consulting one of these nationally recognized experts—or use them as a benchmark when evaluating local care options.