There are several types of surgery used to treat breast cancer, ranging from breast-conserving options to more extensive procedures. Below, we’ll look at the most common surgeries and how they can be part of an individualized treatment plan. 

1. Lumpectomy (Breast-Conserving Surgery)

A lumpectomy involves the removal of the tumor and a small amount of surrounding tissue, leaving the rest of the breast intact. It is often referred to as breast-conserving surgery. Lumpectomy is typically performed in cases where the tumor is small and localized, making it an ideal choice for early-stage breast cancer. 

• Benefits: A lumpectomy allows for the preservation of the breast, and in many cases, the cosmetic outcomes are favorable. 

• Considerations: After a lumpectomy, patients often undergo radiation therapy to eliminate any remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence. 

At PI Health Cancer Hospital, the precision of lumpectomy surgeries is enhanced through the use of advanced imaging technology, ensuring that as much healthy tissue as possible is preserved while removing the cancerous cells. 

2. Mastectomy

A mastectomy involves the removal of the entire breast, and it is typically recommended for more advanced stages of breast cancer or for patients who have multiple tumors in the breast. There are different types of mastectomy procedures: 

• Total Mastectomy (Simple Mastectomy): This procedure involves the removal of the entire breast tissue, including the nipple and areola, but without the removal of nearby lymph nodes. 

• Modified Radical Mastectomy: In this surgery, the entire breast is removed, along with some of the lymph nodes under the arm, which helps to determine if the cancer has spread to these lymph nodes. 

• Radical Mastectomy: A more extensive surgery that removes the entire breast, surrounding tissue, and muscles beneath the breast. This type of surgery is rarely performed today due to advances in less invasive techniques. 

• Benefits: Mastectomy is often necessary for more aggressive cancers or when the tumor is too large for a lumpectomy. It reduces the risk of recurrence in the breast. 

• Considerations: Mastectomy can lead to emotional and physical challenges due to the removal of the breast. However, many women opt for breast reconstruction surgery, which can help restore the appearance of the breast. 

3. Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy

Before proceeding with a full mastectomy, surgeons often perform a sentinel lymph node biopsy to check for the spread of cancer. This procedure involves the removal of one or two lymph nodes near the breast to check for cancer cells. 

• Benefits: A sentinel lymph node biopsy is less invasive than removing multiple lymph nodes and provides important information on cancer spread. 

• Considerations: If cancer cells are found in the sentinel lymph nodes, further surgery may be required to remove additional lymph nodes. 

Sentinel lymph node biopsy plays a critical role in staging breast cancer and guiding treatment plans. PI Health Cancer Hospital offers cutting-edge techniques to ensure that this procedure is as precise and effective as possible. 

4. Breast Reconstruction Surgery

For patients undergoing mastectomy, breast reconstruction is an option to rebuild the shape and appearance of the breast. There are two main types of breast reconstruction surgery: 

• Implant-Based Reconstruction: In this procedure, a breast implant is placed under the chest muscle to create a new breast mound. 

• Autologous (Flap) Reconstruction: This involves using tissue from another part of the patient’s body (such as the abdomen or back) to reconstruct the breast. 

• Benefits: Breast reconstruction can help restore the appearance of the breast and improve self-esteem following a mastectomy. 

• Considerations: The decision to undergo breast reconstruction is highly personal and should be made in consultation with the surgical team. 

At PI Health Cancer Hospital, patients are provided with personalized care and options for breast reconstruction, ensuring that each individual’s needs and preferences are considered.