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General Surgeon — Specialized in Breast Diseases

Maria Papadoliopoulou MD, MSc, PhD

PhD in Medicine — NKUA

Modern, personalized, and compassionate approach to breast health. Prevention, early diagnosis, and personalized treatment are the foundations of modern care.

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A Message to Patients

A breast cancer diagnosis is a moment that brings fear and uncertainty. That is completely normal. But it is not a journey that needs to be traveled alone. Behind every treatment plan there is a person who needs time, explanations, and support. My goal is to guide you with clear communication, honesty, and scientific evidence, so that every step is understood and well-organized.

“Knowledge reduces fear. Early diagnosis saves lives. Proper guidance makes the journey safer.”

Meet the Doctor

PhD, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens

General Surgery Residency — Attikon University General Hospital

MSc "Breast Diseases" — NKUA

MSc "Resuscitation" — NKUA

Scientific Associate, MSc "Breast Diseases" NKUA

Numerous publications in international journals & scientific journal reviewer

Publications on PubMed Scopus Profile Curriculum Vitae
I am a graduate of the Medical School of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (2012-2018). I completed my general surgery residency at Attikon University General Hospital (2020-2026), with a special interest in Breast Diseases, working for several years at the Breast Clinic of the 4th Department of Surgery. In 2025, I received my PhD from the Medical School after completing my dissertation titled "Study of axillary lymph node infiltration in breast cancer patients using optical parameters." I have been a Scientific Associate of the MSc program "Breast Diseases" at NKUA since 2024.
Maria Papadoliopoulou

Breast Health Topics

Reliable information for every stage — from prevention to treatment.

01

Breast Screening

Systematic clinical and imaging follow-up for early detection of pathological changes.
02

Breast Self-Examination

A simple self-observation practice to become familiar with the normal breast anatomy.
03

Benign Breast Conditions

The majority of breast conditions are benign. Understand the most common ones.
04

Breast Cancer

Information about modern treatment, staging, and therapeutic options.
05

Breast Biopsy

The only method that confirms with certainty whether a lesion is benign or malignant.
06

Surgical Treatment

Modern surgical techniques aimed at oncological safety and maintaining quality of life.
07

Adjuvant Therapies

Chemotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapies, and radiation therapy after surgery.
08

Genetic Testing

When genetic testing is needed and what a positive result means.
09

Risk Factors

Understanding breast cancer risk factors and practical steps for reduction.
10

The First Visit

What to expect at your first visit to the breast surgeon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Knowledge reduces fear. Early diagnosis saves lives. Proper guidance makes the journey safer.

01

If I find a lump in my breast, does it mean I have cancer?
No. The majority of palpable lumps are benign. Nevertheless, every new or changing finding should be evaluated clinically and with imaging to establish a safe diagnosis.
02

Does mammography cause cancer due to radiation?
The radiation dose of modern digital mammography is low. The benefit of early diagnosis significantly outweighs the theoretical risk from radiation.
03

If I have no family history, can I still develop breast cancer?
Yes. The majority of women diagnosed with breast cancer do not have a strong family history. Age is the most significant risk factor.
04

Does a breast biopsy hurt?
The biopsy is performed under local anesthesia. It usually causes mild discomfort and a small bruise, which resolve within a few days. It is a safe and brief procedure.
05

If I need surgery, will I definitely lose my breast?
No. In early stages, in most cases breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy) is feasible, preserving the breast in combination with radiation therapy.
06

Does a breast cancer diagnosis mean a poor prognosis?
Not necessarily. When the disease is diagnosed at an early stage, cure rates are particularly high. Prognosis depends on the stage and biological characteristics of the tumor.
07

Do all women with breast cancer need chemotherapy?
No. The need for chemotherapy is determined by the stage and biology of the tumor. Many patients receive only hormone therapy or other targeted therapies.
08

Does self-examination replace mammography?
No. Self-examination helps with body awareness but does not replace imaging screening. Preventive screening should be performed according to medical guidelines.
09

How quickly do I need surgery after diagnosis?
In most cases, emergency surgery within days is not required. Proper preoperative planning and comprehensive assessment are needed. An organized and methodical approach is more important than haste.
10

Can I continue working during treatment?
In most cases, yes — with adjustments where needed. Modern treatment aims not only at curing the disease but also at maintaining quality of life.
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Contact & Appointments

Get in touch to schedule your appointment or for any questions.

Phone 697 086 8587