The different types of breast cancer surgery

Breast Cancer (or for that matter any cancer) always creates a panic response in people. However, with technology advancements, this disease can be cured. Depending on the stage and type of breast cancer, there are multiple types of treatments that can help the patient get better over time. While some cancers require surgery, others do not.

There are many factors that affect the type of surgery advised. How big the tumour is, the extent of its spread, the size of the breasts and the surgery type that suits the patient are the most important factors that help determine the type of the surgery.

In this article, we’re going to discuss the different types of surgery that can be done if you, or someone you know, has been diagnosed with breast cancer.

Let’s go over them. Broadly, there are four types of breast cancer surgeries -

1. Breast-Conserving Surgery or Lumpectomy

This surgery involves the removal of the area that has the cancerous cells, the tumor and some of the healthy tissue surrounding the tumor as well. Lumpectomy tries to conserve as much of the breast as possible. However, radiation therapy is generally advised after this surgery in order to ensure the chances of relapse are minimal.

2. Mastectomy

In a mastectomy, surgeons remove the entire breast, all the skin, the nipple as well as the nearby tissue. Some women choose to go for a double (bilateral) mastectomy, in which case both the breasts are surgically removed. Radiation therapy after a mastectomy is not the usual course of the treatment. However, depending on how far the cancer has spread, the doctor can advise it to avoid relapse.

3. Breast Reconstruction

This is done after a mastectomy or a lumpectomy in order to restore the breasts. This involves consultation with an oncologist as well as a plastic surgeon and can be done either immediately or with a gap, post surgery. The look and the need for breast reconstruction is the sole decision of the woman undergoing it. It is generally done by grafting fat into the chest to recreate the breast mound.

4. Removal of Lymph Nodes

In case the cancer has spread to other parts of the body like the underarm, the lymph nodes are removed to avoid further spread. This operation can be performed alongside breast cancer surgery or separately.

Every cancer is different because everybody is different. Doctors make the decision to advise either of these surgeries based on the medical history and the need of the hour. The best way to ensure you are following the right treatment path is to reach out to a great breast surgeon in Pune, or your respective city.

Remember to stay positive and consult the experts.

References:

https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/breast-cancer/treatment/su...

https://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/treatment/surgery-for-breast...

https://www.webmd.com/breast-cancer/breast-cancer-surgery-options