OBJECTIVES: I. Determine the effects on 2 year progression-free survival of a regimen consisting of cyclophosphamide, paclitaxel, and filgrastim (G-CSF) to mobilize peripheral blood progenitor cells (PBPCs), followed by 2 courses of carboplatin and paclitaxel followed by 1 course of melphalan, each supported with PBPCs and G-CSF, in patients with recurrent or refractory, advanced breast cancer. II. Evaluate the feasibility of administering multiple courses of high dose chemotherapy in an outpatient setting for these patients. III. Evaluate the rate of complete response to the high dose therapy in these patients.