Natasha Rueth, M.D.

Natasha Rueth, M.D., is a surgical oncologist at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer. Her work is grounded in helping each individual move through a complex diagnosis with clarity and confidence. Board certified in both general surgery and complex general surgical oncology, Dr. Rueth brings advanced surgical training together with a steady, thoughtful approach, ensuring care is both highly specialized and deeply personal.

Areas of Expertise

Dr. Rueth's approach to breast cancer surgery emphasizes precision, individualization, and careful timing, choosing the right treatment for each person at the right moment. Her clinical focus includes:

• Neoadjuvant therapy for breast cancer: Integrates systemic treatments before breast cancer surgery to improve outcomes and expand surgical options.
• Nipple-sparing mastectomy: Performs advanced techniques that preserve form without compromising  oncologic safety.
• Young-diagnosis breast cancer: Develops care plans tailored to the unique clinical and life considerations of those diagnosed at a younger age.
• Risk-reduction surgery for genetic predisposition to breast cancer: Guides individuals through preventative surgical options designed to lower long-term cancer risk.

Research and Education

Dr. Rueth's approach to care is shaped by a strong foundation in clinical research and surgical training. She earned her medical degree at the University of Minnesota, where she also completed her general surgery residency and a master's degree in clinical research. She then completed fellowship training in complex general surgical oncology at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center.

Dr. Rueth's practice philosophy is focused on finding the right treatment for the right person at the right time, being open and honest with patients and caregivers about their diagnosis and options and helping to redefine and reframe the cancer journey. She is committed to individualization of treatment plans, reducing the extent of surgery when appropriate while still providing maximal effective care.