What is a lumpectomy?
Lumpectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the cancerous tumor (along with a margin of surrounding healthy tissue) while preserving the majority of the breast tissue. This approach is often recommended for the treatment of early-stage breast cancer, particularly when the tumor is small and localized.
What can I expect during a lumpectomy?
During a lumpectomy procedure, you can expect the following steps:
- Preoperative Evaluation: Before surgery, you will undergo preoperative evaluation, which may include imaging studies (such as mammography or breast MRI) and discussion with your surgical team about the procedure, risks, and expected outcomes.
- Surgical Incision: A small incision is made in the breast to access the tumor. The incision is strategically placed to minimize visible scarring and optimize cosmetic outcomes.
- Tumor Removal: The cancerous tumor, along with a margin of surrounding healthy tissue, is carefully removed by the surgeon. Special techniques may be used to ensure clear margins and minimize the risk of cancer recurrence.
- Breast Preservation: After tumor removal, the breast tissue is carefully reshaped and closed to preserve the natural appearance of the breast. In some cases, oncoplastic techniques may be used to achieve optimal cosmetic results.
- Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy: In some cases, sentinel lymph node biopsy may be performed during lumpectomy to evaluate the status of the lymph nodes and determine the extent of cancer spread.
What are the benefits of a lumpectomy?
A lumpectomy offers several benefits for individuals diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer such as:
- Breast Preservation: Lumpectomy allows for the preservation of the majority of the breast tissue, minimizing the psychological impact of breast surgery and preserving body image.
- Equivalent Survival Rates: Numerous studies have shown that lumpectomy followed by radiation therapy offers equivalent survival rates to mastectomy for the treatment of early-stage breast cancer.
- Cosmetic Outcomes: Advanced surgical techniques, such as oncoplastic surgery and hidden scar approaches, can optimize cosmetic outcomes and enhance patient satisfaction.
What happens after a lumpectomy?
After lumpectomy, you will undergo a period of recovery, which may involve pain management, physical therapy, activity restrictions, and follow-up appointments with your surgical team. Radiation therapy is often recommended following lumpectomy to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence.
At The Iowa Clinic, our board-certified breast surgeons are dedicated to providing you with expert evaluation, personalized treatment plans, and compassionate care throughout your lumpectomy journey. We understand the importance of preserving both your breast health and aesthetic appearance, and we are committed to achieving optimal outcomes for every patient. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you navigate your breast health with confidence.