Choose expertise and compassion in breast cancer surgery

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to focus on education, early detection and support for those affected by breast cancer. Awareness is an important first step, but knowing where to turn for care is just as vital. When facing a breast cancer diagnosis, choosing the right surgical team can make all the difference in treatment outcomes, recovery and long-term quality of life.

Comprehensive and collaborative care

The breast surgery program at Baylor Medicine is built around a multidisciplinary model. Each patient benefits from coordinated care that includes experts in surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, radiology, pathology, genetics and plastic surgery. This approach ensures that every treatment plan is personalized and supported by the latest research and technology.

Patients at the Dan L Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, an NCI-designated cancer center, have access to state-of-the-art imaging and diagnostic tools, as well as participation in clinical trials that advance the future of breast cancer care.

Leaders in breast cancer surgery

The breast surgery program is led by a team of experts who provide innovative, patient-focused care. Get to know the surgeons here.

Dr. Alastair Thompson
Professor and Chief, Section of Breast Surgery
Co-Director, Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center

Thompson is an internationally recognized leader in breast surgical oncology. His expertise includes breast-conserving surgery, nipple-sparing mastectomy and complex reconstruction planning. Thompson’s research focuses on optimizing treatment for each individual, including reducing the intensity of surgery and therapy for select patients when it is safe to do so.

Under Thompson’s leadership, Baylor has become a national leader in clinical research and surgical innovation. His work is grounded in evidence-based care, ensuring patients receive treatment that reflects both the latest scientific advances and a commitment to their overall well-being.

Learn more about Thompson’s work here.

Dr. Stacey Carter
Associate Professor of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology

Carter, a native Houstonian, offers advanced breast surgical oncology care with a personalized and approach. She completed her general surgery training at Baylor and a breast surgical oncology fellowship at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center.

Her surgical expertise includes nipple- and skin-sparing mastectomy, targeted axillary dissection and oncoplastic surgery that balances oncologic safety with cosmetic results. In addition to her clinical role, Carter serves as associate program director for the general surgery residency, helping to train the next generation of surgeons within Baylor’s culture of excellence. Patients describe her as attentive, compassionate and deeply invested in their care journey.

Learn more about Carter’s work here.

Dr. Elizabeth Bonefas
Assistant Professor of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology

Bonefas provides surgical care for both malignant and benign breast conditions. Her areas of expertise include lumpectomy, mastectomy and lymph node surgery. She works closely with plastic surgery colleagues to integrate reconstructive and aesthetic goals into each patient’s surgical plan.

Bonefas is known for her precision in the operating room and her compassionate approach to patient care. She is board-certified by the American Board of Surgery and is an active member of the American College of Surgeons and the American Society of Breast Surgeons. Patients appreciate her clear communication, thorough preparation and dedication to helping them make informed decisions about their treatment.

Learn more about Bonefas’ work here.

Dr. Pabel Miah
Assistant Professor of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology

Miah specializes in breast surgical oncology with a focus on providing comprehensive and individualized care for patients facing breast cancer. He offers expertise in breast-conserving techniques, sentinel lymph node biopsy, lymphatic-venous bypass, and nipple-sparing mastectomy. Miah is dedicated to patient education and empowerment, ensuring that each individual understands their options and feels supported through every step of treatment.

Miah’s practice integrates the full spectrum of Baylor’s multidisciplinary resources, including genetics, oncology and reconstructive surgery. His commitment to research and education reflects Baylor’s mission to deliver excellence in care through discovery and innovation.

Learn more about Miah’s work here.

Advanced practice providers who guide every step

The Baylor breast surgery team is strengthened by advanced practice providers Lauren Mancuso, FNP-C, and Logan Healy, PA-C, who play an essential role in patient care before, during and after surgery.

Mancuso and Healy serve as consistent points of contact for patients, helping coordinate appointments, review treatment plans and provide ongoing education and support. Their compassion, attention to detail and clinical expertise help ensure that patients feel informed, comfortable and confident throughout their care experience.

A call to awareness and action

For those facing breast cancer, Baylor Medicine offers hope through expertise, innovation and compassionate care. Patients can trust that they are supported by a team dedicated to achieving the best outcomes while honoring their individual needs.
This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Baylor’s breast surgery team offers the reminder that early detection is crucial in saving lives. Routine mammograms, awareness of personal and family history and prompt evaluation of any breast changes remain key to early diagnosis.

Learn more about breast cancer surgery at Baylor Medicine.

By Brittany Fisk Adiletta, senior marketing associate in the Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery