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Contents
  • Breast-Conserving Surgery: Saving the Breast
  • Mastectomy: Removing the Entire Breast
  • Comparing Outcomes
  • Factors to Consider

Breast-Conserving Surgery vs. Mastectomy: Which is Right for You?

Breast-Conserving Surgery vs. Mastectomy: Which is Right for You?

A Big Decision

Choosing between breast-conserving surgery and mastectomy is a personal decision for many breast cancer patients. Understanding the pros and cons of each option can help you make the best choice for your situation.
Contents
  • Breast-Conserving Surgery: Saving the Breast
  • Mastectomy: Removing the Entire Breast
  • Comparing Outcomes
  • Factors to Consider

Breast-Conserving Surgery: Saving the Breast

Breast-conserving surgery, also called lumpectomy, removes the tumor and a small amount of surrounding tissue. This approach preserves most of the breast. It's usually followed by radiation therapy to reduce the risk of cancer returning. Many women choose this option to maintain their natural breast shape.

Mastectomy: Removing the Entire Breast

Mastectomy involves removing the entire breast. This may be recommended for larger tumors or when cancer is found in multiple areas of the breast. Some women choose mastectomy for peace of mind, even if breast conservation is an option. Breast reconstruction can often be performed at the same time or later.
Comparison of breast-conserving surgery, also known as lumpectomy, and mastectomy for breast cancer treatment. This involves assessing the suitability for each procedure based on tumor size, location, and patient preferences.

Comparing Outcomes

Studies show that breast-conserving surgery plus radiation therapy is just as effective as mastectomy for many early-stage breast cancers. Both approaches have similar long-term survival rates. The main difference is in how much breast tissue remains after surgery.

Factors to Consider

Your doctor will help you decide which surgery is best based on factors like tumor size, location, and your overall health. Personal preferences matter too. Consider how you feel about preserving your breast, undergoing radiation, and potential follow-up surgeries. Some women prioritize a quicker recovery, while others focus on body image concerns.

FAQs

Is one surgery safer than the other?

Both surgeries are generally safe, with similar overall survival rates for early-stage cancers.

Will I need radiation after mastectomy?

Some women need radiation after mastectomy, but it's more common after breast-conserving surgery.

Can I have reconstruction after breast-conserving surgery?

Yes, though most women who choose breast conservation don't need reconstruction.

How long is recovery for each surgery?

Lumpectomy recovery is typically shorter, while mastectomy may require several weeks.

What if cancer comes back after breast-conserving surgery?

If cancer returns, a mastectomy is usually performed at that time.

Making Your Choice

The best surgical approach depends on your unique situation and personal preferences.
Want to explore your breast cancer surgery options in more detail? Chat with Doctronic, your AI doctor, to learn more.
Additional References
  1. American Cancer Society. Breast-conserving Surgery (Lumpectomy). https://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/treatment/surgery-for-breast-cancer/breast-conserving-surgery-lumpectomy.html
  2. Breastcancer.org. Mastectomy vs. Lumpectomy. https://www.breastcancer.org/treatment/surgery/mastectomy-vs-lumpectomy
  3. National Cancer Institute. Surgery to Reduce the Risk of Breast Cancer. https://www.cancer.gov/types/breast/risk-reducing-surgery-fact-sheet
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.