Surgery of Breast Cancer

Breast-conserving surgery, like a lumpectomy, removes only the tumor and a small margin of tissue, preserving most of the breast

Fundamentals of Surgery

Breast cancer surgery is a key part of treatment that removes cancer from the breast, with options like mastectomy (removing all or part of the breast) and breast-conserving surgery (removing only the tumor). Different types of mastectomies include total, modified radical, and radical, with variations like skin-sparing or nipple-sparing for reconstruction purposes. Some surgeries focus on checking lymph nodes to see if the cancer has spread. Patients can also choose breast reconstruction, either with implants or tissue from their own body. Recovery times vary, depending on the type of surgery, and may include some pain, swelling, or other complications, but doctors will help manage these. Before surgery, patients undergo tests and should talk with their doctors about the best options for them.

Let’s understand the types of surgery for breast cancer

Breast cancer surgery is categorized into several types, including lumpectomy, mastectomy, lymph node surgery, and breast reconstruction.

Lumpectomy
(partial mastectomy)

A lumpectomy is when a doctor removes a lump from your breast, along with a little bit of healthy tissue around it. This is done to help treat breast cancer, especially when it is caught early.

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Mastectomy

A mastectomy is when a doctor removes all of one or both breasts. Sometimes, other nearby tissues, like muscles in the chest, are also taken out if they are affected. This helps treat breast cancer.

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Lymph node surgery

Lymph node surgery is when a doctor removes some lymph nodes, which are tiny, bean-shaped parts of your body that help fight infection. This is done to check if cancer has spread or to remove cancer in the lymph nodes.

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Breast Reconstruction

Breast reconstruction is a surgery to bring back the shape of your breast after it has been removed because of cancer. The doctor might use implants, your own body tissue, or both to do this.

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  • Pain and Discomfort: Most patients experience pain at the surgical site, which can be managed with medication.
  • Nausea: Some individuals may feel sick post-surgery, particularly after longer procedures.
  • Swelling and Bruising: Swelling (oedema) is common and usually resolves within weeks; bruising may also occur.
  • Change in Sensation: Patients may experience numbness, tingling, or altered sensations around the surgical area.
  • Seroma Formation: Fluid accumulation under the skin may occur, requiring drainage if it becomes uncomfortable.
  • Infection: There is a risk of wound infection, which may require antibiotics.
  • Lymphedema: Swelling in the arm or hand can develop if lymph nodes are removed, leading to long-term complications.
References for the article