Judy C. Boughey, M.D.

Judy C. Boughey, M.D., is a breast surgical oncologist at Mayo Clinic, where she leads as Division Chair of Breast and Melanoma Surgical Oncology and Chair of the Breast Cancer Disease Group. Her work reflects a deep commitment to improving care for people diagnosed with breast cancer and supporting women at high risk for future breast cancer. Her practice philosophy focuses on patient-centered care to provide the best possible oncologic outcomes with excellent aesthetics while respecting patients' needs and preferences.

Areas of Expertise

Dr. Boughey's approach combines advanced surgical techniques with a focus on individualized care. Her clinical focus includes:

• Neoadjuvant therapy for breast cancer: Specialized in treating triple-negative, HER2-positive, and inflammatory breast cancer.
• Nipple-sparing mastectomy: Preserving aesthetics while ensuring oncologic safety.
• Sentinel lymph node surgery: Minimizing surgical impact while maintaining accuracy in cancer staging.
• Technical advances in breast surgery: Improving long-term outcomes and accelerating recovery.
• Minimizing extent of surgery: Committed to reducing the extent of surgery without compromising cancer outcomes.
• Clinical trials for breast cancer: Opening doors to new therapies and individualized care for every patient.

Research and Leadership

Beyond her clinical practice, Dr. Boughey is a leading voice in breast cancer research. She directs multiple clinical trials aimed at safely de-escalating breast cancer management and tailoring care to each patient's unique needs. Her dedication to advancing surgical oncology has earned her national and international recognition, including leadership roles as Chair of the American College of Surgeons Cancer Research Program and Past President of the American Society of Breast Surgeons. She is also a fellow of the American Surgical Association and holds the W.H. Odell Professorship in Individualized Medicine.

Dr. Boughey earned her medical degree from the University of Cambridge, completed her residency at the University of South Carolina, and pursued fellowship training in breast surgery at the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center.