There are several types of breast cancer surgeries:
1.Lumpectomy (Breast-Conserving Surgery): In a lumpectomy, the surgeon removes the tumor along with a
surrounding margin of healthy tissue. This approach is typically used for smaller tumors and is often
followed by radiation therapy to ensure that any remaining cancer cells are eradicated. Lumpectomy
preserves most of the breast tissue, aiming to maintain the breast's appearance and shape.
2.Mastectomy: A mastectomy involves the complete removal of the breast tissue. There are different types
of mastectomy:
- Total Mastectomy: Removes the entire breast tissue.
- Modified Radical Mastectomy: Removes the breast tissue, some lymph nodes in the underarm (axillary lymph
nodes), and sometimes the lining over the chest muscles.
- Skin-Sparing Mastectomy: Removes breast tissue while preserving the breast skin, often used in
combination with breast reconstruction.
- Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy: Removes breast tissue while preserving the nipple and areola, also commonly
used with breast reconstruction.
3.Axillary Lymph Node Dissection: If cancer is present in the axillary lymph nodes, a surgical procedure
might be done to remove a portion of these lymph nodes to determine the extent of spread and to guide
further treatment decisions.
4.Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy: This procedure involves removing only a few sentinel lymph nodes, which are
the first lymph nodes to which cancer is likely to spread. If these nodes are clear of cancer cells,
it's unlikely that cancer has spread further, and more extensive lymph node removal might not be
necessary.
5.Breast Reconstruction: For those who undergo mastectomy, breast reconstruction can be performed
immediately or at a later time. Reconstruction can involve implants, tissue expanders, or using the
patient's own tissue (autologous reconstruction).
6.Oncoplastic Surgery: This is a combination of cancer surgery and plastic surgery techniques to achieve
better cosmetic outcomes, especially after lumpectomy.
The choice of surgery is made in consultation with a multidisciplinary medical team, including surgeons,
oncologists, and other specialists. The goal is to tailor the treatment plan to the patient's individual
needs and preferences while ensuring the best chances for long-term cancer control and quality of life.
Breast cancer surgery is often just one aspect of a comprehensive treatment plan that might also include
chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy, or a combination of these
treatments. It's important for individuals diagnosed with breast cancer to work closely with their
medical team to make informed decisions about their treatment options based on their unique
circumstances.