Surgery

Surgery is another option used to diagnose and treat cancer and can be utilized alongside chemotherapy and/or radiation treatments.

Through our partnerships with local hospitals, our patients have access to the most advanced technologies, including the da Vinci Xi Surgical System ®. Often referred to as a robot, the da Vinci Xi Surgical System is actually a precise, computerized technology controlled by the surgeon. It combines the skill of your surgeon with the best features and benefits of minimally invasive procedures. Patients undergoing robotic-assisted surgery experience shorter hospital stays, less pain, less risk of infection, less blood loss and transfusions, less scarring and a faster return to normal activities.

Breast Surgery

We understand how overwhelming a breast cancer diagnosis can be, and how unique your cancer journey is. That’s why we emphasize compassionate, patient-centered care with personalized treatment plans tailored to individual needs. Breast surgery is an integral part of our comprehensive care approach. From the initial consultation through postoperative follow-up, our team supports you every step of the way. With open communication, education and guidance, you are empowered to make informed decisions about your treatment.

Our surgical team brings a wealth of expertise and advanced skills to every procedure. Through close collaboration, your care team will ensure a holistic plan that addresses all aspects of breast health. Our commitment is to offer the most advanced surgical options, leveraging leading-edge technology and innovative techniques to achieve the best possible outcomes for our patients. By fostering a collaborative and supportive environment, we strive to not only treat the disease but also to enhance each patient’s overall well-being and quality of life.

Meet The Doctors

Vera Hendrix, MDDr. Vera Hendrix is a highly skilled breast surgeon serving Covington and the Northshore. She earned her medical degree from Georgetown University School of Medicine and completed her residency in general surgery at Tulane University. Dr. Hendrix further specialized in breast surgical oncology through a fellowship at the University of Southern California. Certified by the American Board of Surgery, she is dedicated to providing compassionate care and personalized treatment plans to her patients, empowering them to navigate their breast health journey with confidence. Dr. Hendrix is the only oncology fellowship-trained breast surgeon on the Northshore, known for her clinical expertise and commitment to excellence in patient care.

M. Celeste Lagarde, MD, FACSDr. M. Celeste Lagarde is a breast surgical oncologist in Covington. She completed her medical education and training at Louisiana State University School of Medicine, specializing in breast surgical oncology. Dr. Lagarde served as the Clinical Instructor of Surgery at Louisiana State University School of Medicine from 1980-1992, and subsequently advanced to the position of Assistant Professor of Surgery from 1992-1993. Dr. Lagarde is a fellow of both the American College of Surgeons and the American Society of Breast Surgeons, showcasing her commitment to excellence in patient care. With a compassionate approach and clinical expertise, she empowers her patients to navigate their breast health journey with confidence and care.

Mindy Williams Bowie, MD, FACSDr. Mindy Williams Bowie is a Breast Surgical Oncologist at Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she specializes in breast cancer surgeries. She is board certified by the American Board of Surgery and is a fellow of the American College of Surgeons. Dr. Bowie earned her Bachelor of Science in Microbiology and Master of Science degrees from Louisiana State University. She continued her education at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, completing medical school in 2004 and a general surgery residency in 2009. She then completed a Breast Surgical Oncology Fellowship at Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, Florida.
Certified in Hidden Scarâ„¢ breast surgery, Dr. Bowie specializes in nipple-sparing mastectomies and oncoplastic breast surgery. She is actively involved in breast cancer research and prevention, with several publications in breast cancer journals.

Vera Hendrix, MD

Celeste Lagarde, M.D. FACS

Mindy Williams Bowie, M.D., FACS

Vera Hendrix, MD
M. Celeste Lagarde, MD, FACS
Mindy Williams Bowie, MD, FACS

Collaborative Care Team

Our surgeons provide comprehensive care within a multidisciplinary team, specializing in minimally invasive procedures such as laparoscopic and robotic-assisted treatment of tumors. Our surgeons have undergone intensive training and offer a high degree of specialization and expertise.

Surgeons work closely with a team of physicians in the Cancer Center, including medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, radiologists, plastic/reconstructive surgeons, genetic counselors, oncology nursing staff and social workers to develop individualized cancer treatment plans.

Important Phone Numbers

Scheduling Line
Cancer Screenings
Patient Navigator