Kelly Elleson M.D.

10/22/2026

10/18/2026

Great weekend at the FCS Clinical Summit! Grateful to be part of an organization that prioritizes continuing education, collaboration, and above all, exceptional patient care. Looking forward to this next chapter alongside such a dedicated group of colleagues!

10/13/2026

Behind every mammogram is a closer look at your breast health. 💗

Mammography uses specialized X-ray imaging to capture detailed images of breast tissue, helping detect changes or abnormalities that may not be felt during a breast exam.

Our skilled mammography technologists play an important role in this process, carefully capturing high-quality images that radiologists review for signs of breast cancer and other concerns. 🔎

Early detection matters, and every image is an important step toward protecting your health!

Schedule your mammogram today: https://www.leehealth.org/breast-cancer-awareness/scheduling-a-mammogram?utm_source=social_media&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=mammogram

10/13/2026

🎀 BREAST FACT OF THE DAY: Men get breast cancer, too!

Here’s something surprising… Nearly 90% of male breast cancers are estrogen receptor-positive! 🤯

Yes, men have estrogen, too!

Although rare, breast cancer in men is real. A lump near the ni**le, ni**le discharge, or skin changes should never be ignored.

🧬 All men diagnosed with breast cancer should be offered genetic testing, particularly because of the association with BRCA2 mutations.

10/11/2026

I’ve had quite a few people ask whether I’ll still be performing surgery at Florida Cancer Specialists. The answer is absolutely YES! 💗

My practice will continue to focus on breast and melanoma surgery, including the same surgical procedures and personalized care I’ve always provided.

What’s exciting about this transition is the opportunity to work even more closely with medical oncologists and other members of the cancer care team, all in the same building.

New location. Same surgical focus. Same commitment to my patients.

I look forward to continuing to care for our Southwest Florida community!

Breast & melanoma surgical oncologist
Fighting Cancer TOGETHER 🎀
📍Southwest Florida

10/09/2026

🎀 BREAST FACT OF THE DAY: Pregnant or Breastfeeding? You Can Still Get Breast Imaging!

One misconception I want to clear up: A new breast lump should NEVER be dismissed as “just pregnancy changes” or “a clogged milk duct” without appropriate evaluation.

Breast cancer can develop during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Unfortunately, diagnosis can sometimes be delayed because breast changes are assumed to be normal.

Here’s what you should know:

💕 Ultrasound is safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding and is often the first test used to evaluate a lump.

💕 Mammograms can safely be performed during pregnancy when indicated. Radiation exposure to the developing baby is extremely low.

💕 Breast MRI can be performed during breastfeeding when appropriate. Contrast-enhanced breast MRI is generally avoided during pregnancy.

💕 Breast biopsies can safely be performed during pregnancy and breastfeeding when needed.

The most important takeaway? Pregnancy and breastfeeding should NEVER delay the evaluation of a suspicious breast finding.

If you notice a new lump, persistent breast changes, or concerning ni**le discharge, speak with your physician. You do not need to wait until after delivery or until you stop breastfeeding to get answers.

Early evaluation matters! 💗

10/08/2026

☢️ Did you know a little radioactivity can help guide cancer surgery?

When performing a sentinel lymph node biopsy for breast cancer or melanoma, we often use a tiny amount of radioactive tracer to help identify the first lymph nodes where cancer cells would be most likely to spread.

Using a special handheld probe during surgery, we can locate these lymph nodes and remove them for testing.

The best part? This allows us to evaluate for cancer spread while often avoiding the removal of additional healthy lymph nodes, reducing the risk of complications like lymphedema.

💡 Fun fact: The radioactive tracer doesn’t actually tell us whether cancer is present. It acts like a GPS for your lymphatic system! Pathology determines whether cancer cells are in the lymph nodes.

Sometimes the smallest tools make a big difference in how we approach surgery!

10/08/2026

What’s the best type of tumor? B9, of course! 😂🎀

Such a fun night with a great group of ladies at Designer Purse Bingo supporting the Lee Health Cancer Institute! 👜💕 No designer purses came home with us, but we had plenty of laughs and supported a great cause!

10/07/2026

🧬 Genetic testing isn’t just for people with a strong family history.

I believe everyone diagnosed with breast cancer should be offered genetic testing. Results can sometimes affect surgical or treatment decisions, help us understand future cancer risks, and provide important information for family members.

One question I hear a lot is: “Will genetic testing affect my insurance?”

Federal law protects genetic information when it comes to health insurance and employment. Florida also has additional protections regarding the use of genetic testing by certain insurers. However, your existing medical history and cancer diagnosis may still be considered when applying for life insurance.

If you’ve been diagnosed with breast cancer and haven’t discussed genetic testing, ask your breast surgeon or oncology team whether testing is appropriate for you. 💗

Insurance laws can be complex and may change; individual coverage and underwriting can vary.

10/05/2026

Not every woman needs a breast MRI—but for women at high risk, it can be an important addition to screening. 🎀

Women with a lifetime breast cancer risk around 20–25% or higher, certain inherited genetic mutations, a strong family history, or prior chest radiation at a young age may qualify for annual breast MRI in addition to mammography.

One of the most important things you can do is know your individual risk. Ask your physician whether you’ve had a formal breast cancer risk assessment and whether supplemental screening is appropriate for you.

And remember: MRI does not replace your mammogram—it adds to it.

Know your risk. Know your screening plan. 💗