Surgical Procedures to Treat Breast Cancer

Overview

There are several types of surgery that may be used as part of breast cancer treatment. These include:

Lumpectomy: A lumpectomy involves removing the tumor and a small amount of surrounding tissue, while preserving the rest of the breast. This procedure is also known as breast-conserving surgery (BCS). It is typically used for early-stage breast cancer when the tumor is small and localized. After a lumpectomy, radiation therapy is often recommended to destroy any remaining cancer cells.
Mastectomy: A mastectomy involves removing the entire breast. There are different types of mastectomies, including:
Simple or total mastectomy: This type involves removing all of the breast tissue, including the nipple and areola.
Skin-sparing mastectomy: In this procedure, the skin covering the breast is preserved, while all of the breast tissue underneath is removed. This type of mastectomy is often followed by breast reconstruction.
Nipple-sparing mastectomy: In a nipple-sparing mastectomy, all of the breast tissue is removed, but the nipple and areola are preserved. Like skin-sparing mastectomy, this procedure can also be followed by breast reconstruction.
Lymph node biopsy: In addition to removing the tumor or breast tissue, lymph node biopsies may also be performed to determine if the cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes. This helps doctors determine the stage of the cancer and plan further treatment.

The choice of surgery depends on various factors including the stage and size of the tumor, whether the cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes, and individual preferences.

It's important to note that these surgical options are just one part of a comprehensive treatment plan for breast cancer. Other treatments such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy may also be recommended depending on individual circumstances. It's always best to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation.