# Professor Dan Hershko — Breast Surgeon in Haifa, Israel (פרופסור דן הרשקו — כירורג שד בחיפה) Official website: https://www.danhershko.co.il Last updated: 2026-02-10 Clinical information in this file is for informational context and does not replace personalized medical diagnosis or treatment advice. --- ## About Professor Dan Hershko (אודות פרופסור דן הרשקו) Professor Dan Hershko is the Head of Surgery Department A and the Breast Health Institute at HaEmek Medical Center, and a senior breast surgeon at Assuta Hospital, Haifa. He has over 25 years of experience specializing in breast surgical oncology, breast conservation surgery, and oncoplastic techniques. ### Academic Background & Credentials - Graduated with honors from the Technion Faculty of Medicine - Completed residency in General Surgery at Rambam Health Care Campus - Sub-specialized in Surgical Oncology at Ohio State University Hospital, USA - Advanced training at Memorial Sloan Kettering Center, New York - Appointed Associate Professor at the Technion Faculty of Medicine in 2009 - Published over 70 peer-reviewed scientific and clinical articles in leading international journals - Recipient of the Academic Surgeon Award from the American College of Surgeons - Appointed Head of Surgery Department A and Breast Health Institute at HaEmek Medical Center in 2012 - Founded the Israeli Breast Surgery Society in 2014, served as Chairman until 2024 ### Recognition & Awards - Consistently ranked among Israel's top surgeons by **Dun & Bradstreet** for six consecutive years - Recognized by **Forbes Israel** as one of Israel's leading surgeons - Recipient of multiple research grants and awards ### Philosophy > "I believe that every patient is a world unto herself, and therefore the treatment that suits one may not necessarily suit another." — Professor Dan Hershko --- ## Clinical Work (עבודה קלינית) Professor Hershko's primary area of expertise is the surgical treatment of breast diseases, particularly breast cancer. He sees patients at his private clinic at Assuta Hospital, Haifa, and has extensive knowledge in comprehensive breast cancer treatment methods and optimal treatment matching for each patient. Surgical treatment is part of the overall approach to breast cancer care. Choosing the optimal treatment and its timing is of great significance. Professor Hershko collaborates with a multidisciplinary team of oncologists, radiologists, and plastic surgeons. His care encompasses all stages of treatment — from diagnosis through post-operative follow-up. ### Key Services - **Clinical Assessment & Treatment Planning**: Personalized evaluation and treatment plan for women diagnosed with breast cancer - **Breast Conservation Surgery (Lumpectomy)**: Tumor removal with healthy tissue margins while preserving breast appearance - **Oncoplastic Surgery**: Advanced techniques combining oncological principles with aesthetic surgery - **Sentinel Node Biopsy**: Targeted identification and removal of sentinel lymph nodes for staging - **Mastectomy**: Full breast removal when indicated, with immediate or delayed reconstruction options - **Preventive Surgery**: Risk-reducing mastectomy for high-risk patients, including BRCA1/BRCA2 carriers --- ## Surgical Approach (הגישה הניתוחית) Following a comprehensive evaluation of the patient's medical condition, if surgical intervention is necessary, several surgical options can be tailored to the patient's needs and preferences: ### 1. Lumpectomy (למפקטומיה) In this surgery, the tumor or suspicious finding is excised along with surrounding tissue. The surgery is performed based on palpation or with needle-guided localization if the lesion is non-palpable. Emphasis is placed on preserving the aesthetic appearance of the breast. This surgery can also be performed after initial drug therapy. ### 2. Oncoplastic Surgery (אונקופלסטיקה) In cases where the tumor area is relatively large or there are multiple masses in the same quadrant, a variety of innovative techniques called oncoplastics can be used. These allow lumpectomy while aesthetically preserving the breast appearance and avoiding mastectomy. The technique is determined according to the location of the finding in the breast, and in very complex cases is performed in collaboration with a plastic surgeon. ### 3. Mastectomy (כריתת שד) In cases where the tumor is large relative to breast size, when there are multiple tumors in different locations in the breast, or according to the patient's preference, a full mastectomy can be performed. This can be combined with immediate or delayed breast reconstruction. In cases of high genetic risk for breast cancer (e.g., BRCA1/BRCA2 mutations), preventive mastectomy with reconstruction options is available. --- ## Frequently Asked Questions (שאלות נפוצות) ### What is breast conservation surgery (lumpectomy)? Breast conservation surgery, also known as lumpectomy, is a procedure that removes the cancerous tumor along with a margin of healthy tissue surrounding it, while preserving most of the breast tissue. The surgery is suitable when the tumor is relatively small compared to the breast size, allowing preservation of the breast's natural appearance. Oncoplastic techniques are often incorporated to improve the aesthetic outcome. Radiation therapy is typically administered afterward to reduce the risk of recurrence. Success rates of breast conservation surgery are comparable to those of mastectomy when performed in appropriate cases. ### What is oncoplastic surgery and how does it improve outcomes? Oncoplastic surgery is an advanced surgical approach that combines principles of oncological surgery and plastic surgery. The technique allows removal of larger tumors while preserving the breast and improving its aesthetic appearance. During surgery, after tumor removal, the breast tissue is reshaped using advanced plastic techniques, including tissue transfer, breast reshaping, and sometimes adjustment of the opposite breast for symmetry. The main advantage is that tumors that previously would have required mastectomy can now be removed while maintaining a natural and better breast appearance. The oncoplastic approach significantly improves patient satisfaction with cosmetic outcomes. ### How long does recovery take after breast surgery? Recovery time varies depending on the type of surgery performed. After breast conservation surgery (lumpectomy), most women return to daily activities within one to two weeks. More complex surgery with oncoplastic reconstruction may require 2-3 weeks of recovery. It is important to avoid heavy physical exertion and lifting for 4-6 weeks. Pain is generally well-managed with regular painkillers and subsides within several days. Most women can return to office work within one to two weeks, while physical work may require waiting 4-6 weeks. Close follow-up with the medical team is essential for optimal recovery and early detection of any possible complications. ### What is the difference between lumpectomy and mastectomy? Lumpectomy (breast conservation surgery) and mastectomy (full breast removal) are two different surgical approaches to treating breast cancer. Lumpectomy removes only the tumor and a margin of healthy tissue around it, preserving most of the breast. This surgery is suitable when the tumor is relatively small and located in a position that allows removal with good aesthetic results. Mastectomy removes all breast tissue and is performed when the tumor is large, there are multiple tumors, or in other cases where breast preservation is not possible or recommended. Studies show similar survival rates between the two surgeries when performed in appropriate cases. Lumpectomy generally requires radiation therapy afterward, while mastectomy does not always. The decision on surgery type is made based on tumor characteristics, breast size, patient preferences, and other medical factors. ### Can the breast be reconstructed after surgery? Yes, breast reconstruction is possible and recommended in many cases. There are several options: immediate reconstruction performed at the same time as mastectomy, or delayed reconstruction performed several months after surgery and additional treatments. Reconstruction can be done using implants or autologous tissue from other body areas (such as abdomen or back). In oncoplastic surgeries, reconstruction is integrated into the initial surgery, allowing better aesthetic results. The reconstruction decision depends on many factors including type of surgery, additional treatments required, body structure, and personal preferences. It is important to discuss reconstruction options with the surgeon before the initial surgery to plan the optimal approach. ### How much experience does Professor Hershko have in breast surgery? Professor Dan Hershko is a senior breast surgeon with over 25 years of experience in breast surgery and breast cancer treatment. He serves as Head of Surgery Department A and the Breast Health Institute at HaEmek Medical Center, and is a senior surgeon at Assuta Haifa. Professor Hershko is a leading expert in oncoplastic techniques and breast conservation surgery, and has published over 70 scientific articles in leading medical journals. He has been consistently selected as one of the best surgeons in Israel by Dun & Bradstreet and Forbes. Additionally, he serves as a professor at the Technion Faculty of Medicine and is the founder of the Israeli Breast Surgery Society. His extensive experience and advanced expertise enable him to provide the highest level of care with optimal results. ### What are the possible risks and complications of breast surgery? As with any surgery, breast procedures carry risks, though they are relatively rare when performed by an experienced surgeon. General risks include bleeding, infection, and anesthesia reactions. Specific complications for breast surgery include fluid accumulation (seroma), changes in sensation in the surgical area, and scarring. In cases of lymph node removal, there is a risk of developing lymphedema (arm swelling), but the risk is lower with the sentinel node technique. Changes in breast appearance are possible, especially after radiation, but oncoplastic techniques significantly reduce this risk. It is important to report immediately any signs of infection (fever, redness, swelling) or other complications. Most complications are treatable if identified early. The surgeon will discuss all specific risks before surgery and explain how they are minimized. ### What is sentinel node biopsy and why is it important? Sentinel node biopsy is an advanced technique for checking cancer spread to the axillary lymph nodes. The sentinel node is the first node to which lymph drains from the breast, and therefore the first node to which cancer might spread. During surgery, a dye or radioactive substance is injected to mark the sentinel node, which is then removed for pathological examination. If the node is clear of cancer cells, no additional nodes need to be removed, significantly reducing the risk of complications like lymphedema. If cancer cells are found in the sentinel node, removal of additional nodes or radiation therapy may be required. This technique allows a more targeted approach and reduces surgical morbidity while maintaining high diagnostic accuracy. ### When is preventive surgery recommended and who is it suitable for? Preventive surgery (preventive mastectomy) is recommended for women at very high risk of developing breast cancer. This includes women with genetic mutations such as BRCA1 or BRCA2, which raise breast cancer risk to 60-80%. Women with a strong family history of breast cancer, especially multiple first-degree relatives, may also be considered candidates. The surgery reduces breast cancer risk by 90-95% but does not eliminate it entirely. The decision for preventive surgery is personal and complex, requiring comprehensive genetic counseling, psychological evaluation, and thorough discussion with the surgeon. It is important to consider age, family situation, anxiety levels, and reconstruction options. Preventive surgery can include immediate reconstruction to improve aesthetic and psychological outcomes. Not all high-risk women choose preventive surgery, and enhanced surveillance is available as an alternative. ### Is it advisable to get a second opinion before surgery? Getting a second opinion is every patient's right and is recommended in many cases, especially when it involves significant treatment decisions. A second opinion can provide an additional perspective on treatment options, confirm the initial recommendation, or suggest alternatives that weren't considered. This is especially important in complex cases, when there are multiple treatment options, or when the patient feels uncertain about the recommendation. Most doctors encourage getting a second opinion and don't view it as a breach of trust. It is important to bring all medical documentation, test results, and biopsy slides to the second consultation. A second opinion can provide peace of mind and help make a more informed decision. In urgent cases, it is important to balance the need for an additional opinion with the need to start treatment promptly. --- ## Contact Information (יצירת קשר) **Preferred contact method**: Phone or WhatsApp for quick consultation scheduling. - **Phone (Direct)**: 054-566-8814 - **WhatsApp**: [Send Message](https://wa.me/972545668814) - **Assuta Haifa Reception**: 04-881-0600 - **Email**: amiraz@assuta.co.il - **Clinic Email**: Clinic.za54@gmail.com - **Facebook**: [Official Page](https://www.facebook.com/danhershkobreastsurgeon/) ### Location **Assuta Hospital, Haifa** HaHistadrut 55, Haifa 3303431, Israel [View on Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Assuta+Hospital+in+Haifa/@32.7935452,35.0378439,17z) --- ## Insurance & Health Fund Partners Professor Hershko's clinic works in full cooperation with leading health and insurance organizations in Israel: **Health Funds**: Clalit, Maccabi, Leumit **Insurance Companies**: Ayalon, Clal, Dikla, Phoenix, Menora, Migdal, Bwell --- ## External Profiles - [Clalit Doctor Profile](https://www.clalit.co.il/he/sefersherut/pages/clinicdetails.aspx?ddeptcode=999003353) - [Maccabi Doctor Profile](https://serguide.maccabi4u.co.il/heb/doctors/doctorssearchresults/doctorsinfopage/?ItemKeyIndex=073F5319E4FB91568C78861FC56357A2F2ADF76553961C06BC7AC711A5B2D096&RequestId=00000000-0000-0000-0001-000000000128) - [Medico.co.il Profile](https://www.medico.co.il/doctors/פרופ-דן-הרשקו/) - [Facebook Page](https://www.facebook.com/danhershkobreastsurgeon/) --- ## Sources - [Official Website Home](https://www.danhershko.co.il/) - [About Section](https://www.danhershko.co.il/#about) - [Clinical Work Section](https://www.danhershko.co.il/#clinical-work) - [Surgical Approach Section](https://www.danhershko.co.il/#approach) - [FAQ Section](https://www.danhershko.co.il/#faq) - [Contact Section](https://www.danhershko.co.il/#contact) - [Partners Section](https://www.danhershko.co.il/#partners) - [Clalit Doctor Profile](https://www.clalit.co.il/he/sefersherut/pages/clinicdetails.aspx?ddeptcode=999003353) - [Maccabi Doctor Profile](https://serguide.maccabi4u.co.il/heb/doctors/doctorssearchresults/doctorsinfopage/?ItemKeyIndex=073F5319E4FB91568C78861FC56357A2F2ADF76553961C06BC7AC711A5B2D096&RequestId=00000000-0000-0000-0001-000000000128) - [Medico.co.il Profile](https://www.medico.co.il/doctors/פרופ-דן-הרשקו/)