How many doctors are needed?

[Twocapes]

I was treated for invasive breast cancer in February, 2004, with lumpectomy, clean margins, ER+, PR+, and Her2neu negative with negative nodes. I did have A/C followed by radiation.  At this point (3-1/2 years later) I am doing very well and being followed by my radiation oncologist, my oncologist, my GYN, my primary care doctor, and the breast surgeon.  I just received a letter that my breast surgeon is leaving the area and I am devastated - she is just superb.  I could go about finding another surgeon but there are no "breast specialists", just general surgeons in my area.  How important is it to continue seeing a surgeon?
Thank you.

[lizziecee]

Gosh, you are so lucky to have that number of doctors monitoring your case. I live in England and am only checked once a year by my bc surgeon, and only get 2 yrly mammos. The Oncologist discharged me after I finished 6 x FEC and 25 rads. I had a non palpable invasive 2 cm tumour, with 4/18 lymph nodes positive, ER+, HER2-. Am on Arimidex. Because my original tumour was non palpable, I do worry that if I have a recurrence and it is also non palpable, I won't know until I have the 2 yrly mammo.  I am sure your 2 oncologists and bc surgeon will be able to effectively monitor you. You sound in good hands.
Liz.

[Cleveland Clinic]

Dear Twocapes,   While some breast surgeons continue to follow their patients regularly after breast cancer surgery, others routinely defer follow-up to other doctors such as the medical oncologist or primary care physician.  While regular follow-up is recommended after treatment for breast cancer, studies suggest that it is less important which type of specialist you continue to see.  As you have other doctors that you are following with, they can always refer you to a surgeon or breast specialist if something comes up that requires further evaluation from a surgical point of view.

[japdip]

In my opinion I would think you are being sufficiently cared for by the number of physicians you mentioned. A surgeon however, is a good person to have on your "go to" list .... not just for breast problems but other surgical concerns that might occur. Perhaps one of your other physicians might point you in the right direction.