Tessa Cigler, M.D., M.P.H.

Dr. Cigler is a medical oncologist whose work is dedicated to the treatment and prevention of breast cancer. She practices at the Weill Cornell Breast Center where comprehensive state-of-the-art care is provided in a personalized and warm environment. As a believer in the benefits of a multidisciplinary approach to breast cancer care, Dr. Cigler meets weekly with breast surgeons, radiation oncologists, pathologists, genetic counselors and other medical oncologists to ensure that her patients receive well-coordinated and optimal care.

Dr. Cigler pays careful attention to the short and long term effects of diagnosis and treatment on physical and emotional well being. She provides personalized and comprehensive care, addressing issues such as diet, exercise, fatigue, anxiety, bone health, and hormone mediated symptoms. For younger patients, options for fertility preservation are carefully considered as the treatment plan is formulated. Women are supported both during treatment and beyond, when attention shifts to issues of breast cancer survivorship. Dr. Cigler treats all stages of breast cancer and also counsels high risk women on options for breast cancer prevention.

Dr. Cigler is an active clinical investigator. As a member of the Weill Cornell Breast Center research team, she heads several clinical trials designed to provide her patients with access to the newest and most promising options for therapy. Her collaborative research focuses on ways to gain a better understanding of breast cancer pathogenesis and side effects of therapy, with the overall goal of improving breast cancer treatment and prevention.

Dr. Cigler teaches second year medical students at the Weill Cornell medical college and mentors medical students and fellows on the wards. She is a member of the American Society of Clinical Oncology and the New York Metropolitan Breast Cancer Group. She is the author of several journal articles and book chapters.