Who We Treat
Dr. King offers expert surgical care of breast disease including the evaluation of new concerns such as palpable masses, changes identified on imaging or a new breast cancer diagnosis. We also offer risk assessment and genetic testing for patients with a family history of cancer or gene mutations. For those currently undergoing cancer treatments, we offer specialized protocols to reduce side effects and risks of chemotherapy and radiation. For those in survivorship, Serene offers personalized approaches to exercise, weight loss, perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms.
Conditions We Treat
For those with a strong family history of breast cancer, genetic testing can be recommended. Many patients will not carry a known gene mutation but are considered high risk for breast cancer based on statistical modeling or the density of the breast tissue. We offer comprehensive evaluation and guidance to next steps based on the results.
Breast masses can be detected on routine imaging, self breast examination or clinical breast examination. Some are symptomatic, causing discomfort, nipple discharge, skin changes or changes to the shape of the breast. Many breast masses are benign but do require breast imaging and work up such a biopsy.
For women who have been diagnosed as high risk for breast cancer based on a gene mutation or risk stratification, we offer continued surveillance examinations and management of breast imaging.
Many women have masses or tumors in the breast which are not harmful. However, some masses may be diagnosed as benign but still require surgical excision. Rapid growth, discordant imaging and pathology results, pain or discomfort and changes in breast contour are all reasons to excise a benign tumor. Benign lesions include: fibroadenomas, benign Phyllodes tumors, Pseudoangiomatous Stromal Hyperplasia (PASH), classic Lobular Carcinoma in Situ (LCIS), Flat Epithelial Atypia, Columnar Cell Lesions.
Production of fluid from the nipple can be caused by many different factors. The most concerning features for a diagnosis of cancer are bloody quality, single-sided (only from one breast) and/or spontaneous (comes out on its own). Nipple discharge requires a physical examination and high quality diagnostic breast imaging for evaluation.
Women with dense breast tissue (BI-RADS class C and D) may be at an increased risk of breast cancer. Breast density is a classification determined by mammography. Breast density should be considered during risk stratification to determine a woman’s risk level. Some women will benefit from additional screening modalities to supplement annual screening mammogram.
There are many different benign lesions that can be diagnosed after a breast biopsy. Management can be vastly different due to the nature of these lesions. We can review each woman’s options based on her individual health and needs. These lesions include: atypical ductal hyperplasia (ADH); atypical lobular hyperplasia (ALH); lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS); flat epithelial atypia; papillary lesions; radial scars; complex sclerosing lesions; mucocele like lesions and desmoid tumors.
Cancer is a disease that starts within a normal cell from any part of the body that is damaged and begins to multiply in a rapid and unchecked fashion. Breast cancer originates from one of the cell types that make up the breast which are: ductal, lobular or connective tissue. In addition to classifying the breast cancer based on the cell it started in, markers are checked to indicate behavior. These markers include the estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR) and human epidermal growth-life factor (HER-2). Additional testing of the tumor DNA (genomics) can be done to further evaluate tumor behavior. Even though there are four general subtypes of breast cancer, each tumor is an individual disease. At Serene, treatment options will be discussed with each patient in depth and a personalized plan that you understand completely will be created.
This is a painful condition that can create red, firm masses on the breast. It is most commonly caused by an infection during breastfeeding but can also arise from an inflammatory condition called Idiopathic Granulomatous Mastitis. The management is very different based on the underlying cause and requires appropriate diagnosis.
Approximately 1% of breast cancer diagnoses are in men every year. Often, they are diagnosed at later stages but fortunately are usually a more benevolent subtype. Male breast cancer typically presents as a mass behind the nipple and requires imaging and biopsy for diagnosis.
New Patient FAQ
Our concierge model allows more time with patients, which ultimately translates to better communication and personalization of each patient’s needs.
Dr. King completed her fellowship in Breast Surgical Oncology at the University of Miami followed by a mini-fellowship in Oncoplasty L’Institut du Sein in Paris, France. She then developed a robust breast surgery practice here in Austin. After 10 years, she made the leap to create Serene and offer a higher level of care.
Visits for breast issues, consultations, surgical planning, and follow-up appointments are personally led by Dr. King, ensuring continuity of care. If you have begun hormone replacement therapy under the care of Dr. Binford, she will lead those consultations and follow ups.
Dr. King believes that thorough understanding of your diagnosis, recommendations and options lead to the best decision making by patients. She will guide you through these points and you will collaborate to design the plan that is right for you.
Concierge visits are intentionally longer than standard clinical appointments and are based on the current patient status. All patients will have enough time to feel heard and understand their treatment plan.
Yes. We work closely with trusted oncologists and plastic surgeons to ensure seamless, comprehensive treatment. Dr. Binford is present for hormone replacement therapy consultations and guidance, especially in the high risk setting.
Our practice operates on a transparent fee-for-service model designed to give you clarity and simplicity. Each service; whether a consultation, in-office procedure, or surgery has a clearly defined professional fee. Payment for service is due at the time care is provided.
If you move forward with surgery, hospital facility fees, anesthesia, and other related provider charges are typically billed to your insurance and may be covered according to your individual plan benefits. Because every policy is different, coverage can vary.
We understand that financial decisions are an important part of your care journey. Our team will review all fees and insurance considerations with you personally, answer your questions, and ensure you feel fully informed and comfortable before moving forward.
Our practice operates outside of traditional insurance networks, allowing us to provide elevated, individualized care. However, we do provide documentation for out-of-network reimbursement.
Concierge care includes direct access to your physicians, priority scheduling, personalized recovery support and ongoing guidance throughout your journey.
Serene is with you every step of the recovery journey, providing detailed, personalized recovery plans and proactive follow-up to ensure you feel supported, informed and confident as you heal.
All surgical patients are offered thoughtfully selected adjunctive therapies designed to help minimize common side effects such as scarring, reduced mobility and lymphedema. Our goal is not only excellent surgical outcomes, but optimal long-term wellness.
Through Serene, patients have access to additional supportive services including private strength training, Pilates coaching, hormone replacement therapy, and weight management — all delivered by carefully vetted professionals who understand the unique needs of surgical and oncology patients.
We believe recovery should feel guided, comprehensive, and empowering.
Individual experiences vary. Testimonials are not guarantees of outcome. View full disclaimer.
