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Lumpectomy: What You Need To Know
Lumpectomy Overview and Purpose
A lumpectomy is a surgical procedure that removes cancer or other abnormal tissue from the breast, also known as breast-conserving surgery.
The purpose of a lumpectomy includes:
- The removal of cancerous cells or tissues from the breast while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible
- Maintaining the breast's appearance and functionality post-surgery.
This procedure is typically performed on patients diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer or those with small tumors, often in conjunction with radiation therapy to ensure the eradication of all cancerous cells.
Understanding medical options like a lumpectomy is beneficial.
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What to Expect During and After Lumpectomy
During a lumpectomy, anesthesia is administered, ensuring no pain is felt. Surgeons create a small incision in the breast tissue to remove the tumor along with some surrounding tissue, aiming to preserve as much healthy breast tissue as possible.
- Following the surgery, mild discomfort and swelling in the area of operation are common.
- Temporary changes in breast shape or size may occur due to fluid build-up or surgical alterations.
- Over time, the body undergoes a healing process, which may reduce these side effects.
Radiation therapy might be necessary after a lumpectomy to target any remaining cancer cells around the removal site, depending on the specific condition.
Understanding the medical journey can contribute to informed health outcomes.