Breast Health
Mackenzie Health's John & Josie Watson Breast Health Centre provides compassionate, thorough, timely and comprehensive care for those who have had an abnormal breast screening test.
Our goal is to provide short wait-times from initial referral from your family physician to assessment, diagnosis and treatment of a possible breast abnormality.
Mackenzie Health’s John and Josie Watson Breast Health Centre offers comprehensive care for individuals with breast health concerns, including both benign (non-cancerous) and malignant (cancerous) conditions, such as breast cancer.
From assessment and diagnostic imaging to care planning, education and patient support, our team is here to support you.
Our team collaborates closely with patients at every stage of their breast care, emphasizing early detection and selecting the most effective treatment plan to ensure they achieve the best possible results.
Meet our team
Dr. Cassandra Uy, Dr. Dhruvin Hirpara, Dr. Sarah Ortega and Dr. Steven Jackson
- Surgeons: Experts who perform procedures and consultations.
- Nurse navigators: Compassionate guides who connect you with resources and support.
- Unit secretary: The first point of contact, ensuring smooth coordination of appointments and inquiries.
- Social worker: A source of emotional support and resources tailored to your needs.
- Diagnostic team: Experts who conduct imaging and tests that are vital for accurate diagnoses.
MyChart
MyChart is a free online tool that allows you to access your health information at Mackenzie Health securely from your personal device (phone, computer, tablet, etc.).  Log on to any computer, from anywhere, at any time, to stay on top of your health information, including test results, past and future appointments, complete questionnaires, view visit summaries and medications, track your health and more.  
Prior to your appointment at the Breast Health Clinic, you will have completed the following tests:
- Mammogram
- Breast ultrasound
- Breast biopsy – using either ultrasound or mammography to complete the procedure.
You might have already received the results of these tests prior to your visit.
In preparation for your first appointment, we recommend that you:
- Bring someone with you for support.
- Bring any medications you are currently taking.
- Present your valid health card for registration.
- Write down any questions or concerns in advance so you don’t forget to ask about them.
- Discuss the results of your diagnostic testing with our Breast Health surgeon.
- Share information about family members who have experienced cancer.
Checklist for your clinic visit
- Bring your health card and any CDs, mammogram films or ultrasound images you might have recently had taken.
- Continue to take all your regular medications, unless told otherwise.
- Bring your medication containers to your appointment along with any vitamins, minerals or herbal supplements.
- Bring a list of any past surgeries and other important medical concerns/procedures you might have had. These will help the doctor to determine next steps for your health care needs.
- Wear a two-piece outfit (e.g. top and a skirt or pants). You will only need to take off your top and wear a gown for the examination.
When you arrive
Please register at our Central Registration Centre, located on Level 2 (Main Floor) of Mackenzie Richmond Hill Hospital.
After this step, proceed to the Breast Health Clinic. Our team works diligently to stay on schedule for your appointment, although you may experience a brief wait.
You can expect to meet a nurse navigator and a breast surgeon, both of whom will discuss your breast health journey with you. Feel free to ask questions as you engage with the team. We are here to support you.
As we meet with you, we will develop your breast health care plan. By the end of your first visit, we will have a plan that may include surgery, additional diagnostic testing, or follow-up appointments with members of our team.
Click here for a larger image of the Breast Health Patient Journey
Where can you be referred after your first Breast Health Clinic appointment?
After your initial visit to the Breast Health Clinic, your health care team will determine the subsequent steps in your care. Based on your diagnosis and individual needs, you may be referred to one or multiple options as part of your treatment plan. Some patients may require additional imaging before follow-up, while others may need a combination of surgery, medical oncology and radiation therapy. Your care team will guide you through the process and ensure you promptly receive the appropriate support at each stage.
Follow-up in the Breast Health Clinic
If further monitoring is necessary, you may have follow-up appointments at the Breast Health Clinic to monitor changes and discuss the next steps.
In some cases, additional imaging tests may be required to obtain further information before deciding on the next steps. Following the extra imaging, you might return to the Breast Health Clinic for further assessment.
Learn more about diagnostic imaging.
Discharged to your family doctor
If no further follow-up is required, your care may be shifted back to your family doctor, who will continue to monitor your breast health.
Radiation therapy
If radiation therapy is a part of your treatment plan, you will be referred to an external radiation treatment centre.
Surgery
Some patients may require surgery as part of their treatment plan. Based on your diagnosis, your care team will discuss surgical options and the next steps. Our surgeons specialize in oncoplastic breast-conserving surgery, flat aesthetic mastectomy and reconstructive plastic surgery.
Learn more about surgery.
Medical oncology
If your treatment involves chemotherapy or other systemic therapies, you will be referred to a medical oncologist who specializes in breast cancer care.
Types of breast cancer
If you have received a diagnosis of any type of breast cancer, your health care team will support you in navigating your treatment options and the next steps. Regular screening and early detection play a vital role in improving outcomes.
For more information on the specific types of cancers, please refer to the following resources:
Lobular carcinoma | Canadian Cancer Society
Breast cancer in men
Overview
Men possess breast tissue similar to women, although it is less developed. While breast cancer in men is rare, making up less than one per cent of all breast cancer cases, it shares similarities with breast cancer in women.
Symptoms
If you notice any of the following changes, see your doctor:
- A lump in the breast or under the nipple
- Nipple discharge or changes (such as inversion or crusting)
- Swelling, pain, or skin changes on the breast
- Any differences in the way your breasts look or feel
Risk factors
Factors that may increase the risk of breast cancer in men include:
- Age (most common after 60)
- Family history or inherited gene mutations (e.g., BRCA)
- Hormonal conditions or genetic syndromes
Diagnosis and treatment
Breast cancer is diagnosed through examinations, imaging techniques (such as mammograms or ultrasounds), and biopsy. Treatment options may involve a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and radiation.
Support & follow-up care
Ongoing follow-up is essential. Support is available to assist with managing side effects such as lymphedema (swelling that can occur when fluid builds up, typically in the arm), along with assistance for physical therapy, sexual health, and fertility concerns. The treatment team and nurse navigator will make the necessary referrals based on your unique treatment needs.
Learn More: Visit the Canadian Cancer Society's page on Breast cancer in men | Canadian Cancer Society
2SLGBTQI+ people
Screening, it’s worth it.
- Everyone, including individuals who identify as Two-Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer or questioning, and intersex (2SLGBTQI+), should have screening for breast or chest cancer.
- Individuals in the 2SLGBTQI+ community are screened for breast cancer less frequently than non-trans and heterosexual individuals. This can result in a higher risk of serious health problems or death due to the disease.
For Trans women:
- Taking gender-affirming hormones for over five years may increase your risk of breast or chest cancer. It is advisable to get a mammogram every two years if you are between 40 - 74 years old.
- If you have never taken gender-affirming hormones or have taken them for less than five years, regular screening isn’t needed.
For Trans men:
- For Trans men aged 40-74 who are not considered high risk for breast or chest cancer, a mammogram every two years is recommended.
- We understand that getting screened for chest cancer can feel uncomfortable. You may worry about transphobia or the discomfort associated with the test itself. These are valid concerns.
- Finding reliable health information that addresses 2SLGBTQI+ experiences can be challenging. In some cases, healthcare settings may not feel entirely inclusive or welcoming.
Our organization is dedicated to delivering safe and inclusive care. We aim to ensure that every patient feels respected and supported during their screening and throughout their healthcare journey.
Learn More: Visit the Canadian Cancer Society's page on Screening in 2SLGBTQI+ communities | Canadian Cancer Society
Whether you are going home on the same day as your surgery or staying overnight, we can help ensure you are prepared for your procedure.
Preparing for your surgery
- If you are on medications, your doctors will advise you on which ones to continue and which ones to stop before your surgery.
- If you smoke, consider stopping before your surgery. This will help you recover from the anesthesia more quickly.
- Depending on your needs after surgery, you may require assistance at home. It’s essential to plan ahead and be prepared. Discuss with family, loved ones, and/or friends to understand how they can support you once you return home.
- If additional preparation is required before your surgery, you will meet with our Preadmission Clinic.
- We recommend bringing someone with you to your appointments.
- You may need blood work, an electrocardiogram (ECG), or a chest X-ray.
- You may have a phone or in-person appointment with a nurse, pharmacist, anesthesiologist, and/or medical doctor.
- Please bring all your medications and any important health information that might affect your care to these appointments. If you do not have the original packages, please bring a list of medications with you.
- Your team may give you exercises to do before your surgery. Learning these exercises before your surgery could make it easier for you when you get home.
- Depending on your surgery, you may be asked to attend an education class before your surgery. If this is the case, we will work to have your preadmission visit and your class on the same day.
What to bring
On the day of your surgery, bring all medications or a complete list of medications with you. Arrive at the hospital approximately two hours before your scheduled surgery.
Please review all the preparation materials. Your surgeon will provide you with instructions on what and when to stop eating and drinking before your surgery. Depending on your procedure, you may be asked to stop eating by midnight the night before, or you may be allowed to drink up to a few hours prior to your surgery.
If you are going home on the day of your surgery, you will need to have a responsible adult drive you home and stay with you overnight.
Please note: you cannot leave the hospital alone. If you are taking an Uber or taxi, please ensure that a family member or friend accompanies you on the ride home.
Please remove your contact lenses before surgery. You cannot wear them during surgery.
If you are staying overnight, please bring:
- A reusable bag for your belongings and another for your shoes or boots
- Slippers
- Robe
- Toiletries
- CPAP machine (if needed)
- Any items that will help keep you comfortable
What here to park and register
If your surgery is at Cortellucci Vaughan Hospital:
Park at the west end of the building; it features a multilevel space. You can then enter the building through the West entrance near Emergency or the South entrance facing Major Mackenzie Drive.
When you arrive to register, the Registration Department is located on the first floor.
If your surgery is at Mackenzie Health Hospital:
Park at the north end of the building in the surface-level parking. You can then enter through the Emergency Department entrance or the Main Entrance at C Wing.
When you arrive to register, the Registration Department is located on the second floor (ground level).
Preparing for your recovery at home
Before coming for surgery, it is important to prepare for your recovery at home.
What to eat: Most patients need to start with a light diet and gradually work up to a full diet. Ask your doctor what is best for your recovery.
Recovery time: Recovering from surgery takes time. Depending on the type of surgery, it may take weeks or a few months. It's important to talk to your surgeon to understand what to expect for a normal recovery. Additionally, knowing what to watch for during your recovery is crucial.
Please leave valuable items at home.
On the day of your procedure, please leave your valuables at home. We cannot be responsible for items lost while at the hospital.
Mackenzie Health is pleased to provide mammography, magnetic resonance Imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) scans with a scheduled appointment, as well as ultrasounds.
What is a mammogram?
Mammography is a specialized medical imaging test that uses a low-dose x-ray system to see inside the breasts. A mammography exam, called a mammogram, aids in the early detection and diagnosis of breast diseases. 
Mackenzie Health is a Canadian Association of Radiologists accredited mammography facility and a certified affiliate of the Ontario Breast Screening Program (OBSP).
What is an MRI?
A Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan is a test that uses magnetic fields, magnetic gradients and radio waves. During the test, loud noises occur as the machine is working to produce images. An MRI does not use radiation.
The results from the test will be used by your physician to provide a diagnosis or to see how well you’ve responded to treatment.
What is a computed tomography?
A computed tomography (CT) scan is a diagnostic imaging tool that facilitates a unique glance into the patient's body. The procedure is also well known as CT or CAT scan. The CT scanner consists of an advanced computer system and a rotating x-ray source and detector. The x-ray creates several cross-sectional images of the body. The images are combined to create a detailed, comprehensive view.
What is an ultrasound?
An ultrasound scan is a diagnostic imaging tool that uses high frequency sound waves to create images of specific areas of the body to diagnose various pathologies. Ultrasound is also well known as US scan or diagnostic medical sonography. The medical images are obtained by the diagnostic medical sonographer who performs examinations, records anatomic condition and provides diagnostic information to a radiologist, who shares it with the ordering physician.
At Mackenzie Health, the Oncology Clinic provides support to individuals and families along their breast cancer journey – from receiving a breast cancer diagnosis, to planning your treatment, to survivorship.
The Oncology Clinic team comprises of Oncologists, Nurses, Allied Health Professionals including Social Workers, Dietitians, Pharmacists, Pharmacy technicians, Drug Access Navigator and secretaries.
Breast cancer treatment
Your treatment plan will be based on your health and the specific type of breast cancer you have. Surgery is the main treatment, but other therapies—such as radiation therapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, or chemotherapy—may also be used. Not all patients will need chemotherapy and occasionally, chemotherapy may come before surgery (called neoadjuvant chemotherapy). If it is part of your plan, your healthcare team will decide which drugs, doses, and schedule are best for you based on your type of breast cancer, overall health, and treatment goals.
Please see this helpful pamphlet to help you for your first day of chemotherapy or biotherapy.
For more information on therapies, please refer to the following resources:
Although Mackenzie Health does not offer radiation therapy, we acknowledge its significance as part of the treatment plan for some patients. If you need radiation, our team will assist in guiding your referral to Sunnybrook Hospital or Southlake Regional Health Centre, depending on your location and treatment needs. We will collaborate closely with the radiation oncology team to ensure a seamless transition and that your treatment plan is well-organized. Your care team will continue to support you throughout the process.
For more information:
What causes breast cancer?
Breast cancer can happen for different reasons:
- Most cases (70-80%) happen by chance, with no apparent cause.
- Some people (5-10%) inherit a gene change that increases their risk. This is called a hereditary cancer syndrome.
- In some families, breast cancer is more common. This may be due to a mix of genetic and environmental factors, but we don’t always know why.
Why would you see a genetic counsellor?
A genetic counsellor helps you understand your risk of inherited breast cancer. You might see one if:
- You were diagnosed with breast cancer at age 45 or younger.
- You had breast cancer at 50 or younger and have a small family history (for example, due to adoption).
- You were diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer at age 60 or younger.
- Two or more family members had breast, ovarian, prostate, or pancreatic cancer.
- You have had two or more separate breast cancer diagnoses.
- You have Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry and a family history of certain cancers.
- Someone in your family has a known hereditary cancer syndrome (if possible, bring their genetic test results to your appointment).
This is not an exhaustive list. If you believe genetic testing may be suitable for you, consult your doctor.
How can genetic testing help?
Genetic testing can provide helpful information, such as:
- Helping you and your doctor decide on treatments, like surgery or medication.
- Identifying if you are at higher risk for certain cancers so you can start screening earlier.
- Helping your family members understand their own cancer risks.
What happens at a genetic counselling appointment?
- Getting a referral – Discuss your family history of cancer with your doctor. If necessary, they can refer you for genetic counselling.
- Preparing for your appointment – You will be asked about your family history, including who in your family has had cancer, their age at diagnosis, and the type of cancer. You may be required to complete a Cancer Family History Questionnaire before your appointment.
- During the appointment - a genetic counsellor will explain cancer genetics and review your eligibility for testing. If possible, testing will begin with a family member who has had cancer. If that is not feasible, other family members may still qualify. They may also discuss the High-Risk Ontario Breast Screening Program with you.
How is genetic testing done?
- Blood test – A simple blood draw is used for genetic testing. No fasting or special preparation is needed.
- Results – You will be contacted once your results are ready. If a genetic change linked to cancer is discovered, subsequent steps may include additional screening, consultations with specialists, or testing family members who may also be at risk.
What if you don’t qualify for government-funded testing?
If you do not meet the criteria for OHIP-funded genetic testing, you may have the option to pay for the testing yourself. This can be discussed during your appointment.
For more information, visit our website or the Ontario Health Cancer Genetic Assessment Referral Guidance.
Resources from Wellspring Cancer Support
Breast survivorship & surveillance – webinar
- Learn about what to expect after treatment and how to manage ongoing care and routine check-ups.
Cancer transition coaching
- One-on-one sessions with a trained volunteer coach to support you in adjusting to life after treatment, addressing concerns, and navigating your new normal.
- Cancer exercise (offered in person and online). Please see Wellspring’s website for details for each type of exercise program.
- For cancer survivors experiencing grief, bereavement, or other challenging emotions with the support of an experienced registered social worker.
Helpful videos:
- S.H.A.P.E. exercise program
- An 8-week exercise program designed for women affected by breast cancer who have completed treatment.
- Retreats
- An empowering weekend for breast cancer survivors.
- Gilda’s Club (post-treatment)
- A virtual support group for individuals 18 months to five years post-treatment of a cancer diagnosis.
After Breast Cancer
- Support is available for breast cancer survivors who cannot afford to meet basic needs or purchase a proper mastectomy bra and breast prosthesis after mastectomy or lumpectomy surgery at NO personal expense.
Pink Pearl (not breast cancer specific but for women 18 to 40)
- These sessions are open to self-identifying young women aged 18-40 who have experienced any type of cancer diagnosis, at any stage and at any point in treatment or post-treatment.
Retreats
- Day-long or overnight retreats offer a safe and nurturing environment to assist you during your cancer diagnosis with engaging peer-led conversations, gentle movement, genuine connections, and expert discussions.
Hope House Hospice (not breast cancer specific)
“Picking up the Pieces,” a nine week post-cancer support group is offered two to four times a year.
You're not alone in your journey
Facing a breast cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming and frightening, but you are not alone. At every stage of your journey—whether you’ve just received a diagnosis, are undergoing treatment, or are navigating life after treatment—we are here to offer guidance, care, and encouragement. No matter where you are in your journey, our dedicated team is ready to support you with compassion and expertise. Together, we can help you navigate the challenges, celebrate the victories, and take confident steps forward.
Patient navigators
Your dedicated patient navigator can assist in coordinating your care, answering questions, and connecting you to resources. They’re here to ensure your journey is as smooth as possible.
Social and emotional support
Breast cancer doesn’t just affect your body—it can also impact your emotions, relationships, and sense of self. Navigating the emotional and social challenges of breast cancer can be difficult. We’ve compiled a list of trusted external resources and organizations to help individuals and families cope with the emotional impact of a breast cancer diagnosis.
Explore the links below to find the support that’s right for you.
- How we can help | Canadian Cancer Society
- Community services locator | Canadian Cancer Society
- Living with cancer | Canadian Cancer Society
- Financial help | Canadian Cancer Society
- Homepage - Wellspring Greater Toronto Area
- Finding support | Canadian Cancer Society
- Wigs
- Transportation | Canadian Cancer Society
- Rethink Breast Cancer - How Can We Help ?
For further information, please visit our contact page or get in touch with your nurse navigator for personalized assistance.
If you are unable to keep your clinic appointment, please call (905)883-1212, ext. 3245 to reschedule. If you are unable to keep your imaging appointment, please call (905) 883-1212, ext. 2004.
Clinic Hours: Monday to Friday 8a.m. to 4p.m.
Contact Information: 905-883-1212, ext. 3245 Fax: 905-883-0772
