Surgeries To Treat Breast Cancer: A Quick Guide

Globally, breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed form of cancer, affecting millions of people around the world. When a person is diagnosed with breast cancer, they may be daunted by the idea of undergoing surgery. However, advancements in medical science have made breast cancer surgery one of the most effective treatments to fight this disease. Surgical treatment can aid in the removal of cancerous tissue, preventing it from spreading to other parts of the body. Surgery to treat breast cancer can potentially save lives and result in a better quality of life for the affected people. Let’s discuss the types of surgeries and how they can help a patient deal with this complex illness.

Surgeries To Treat Breast Cancer: A Quick Guide

Globally, breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed form of cancer, affecting millions of people around the world. When a person is diagnosed with breast cancer, they may be daunted by the idea of undergoing surgery. However, advancements in medical science have made breast cancer surgery one of the most effective treatments to fight this disease. Surgical treatment can aid in the removal of cancerous tissue, preventing it from spreading to other parts of the body. Surgery to treat breast cancer can potentially save lives and result in a better quality of life for the affected people. Let’s discuss the types of surgeries and how they can help a patient deal with this complex illness.

Breast Cancer Surgery: An Overview
Breast cancer surgery is an invasive medical procedure to operate on the patient’s body and remove the cancerous part. Your breast cancer specialist can help you decide whether you need surgery. In many cases, patients may undergo surgery in addition to complementary treatment options like chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, or hormone therapy. 
Surgery can be an effective solution for people affected by breast cancer. In addition, people with a high genetic probability of getting breast cancer in the future may opt for prophylactic surgery to minimize the risk.

What Factors Influence the Decision on Breast Cancer Surgery?
Doctors discuss the available surgery options with their patients to help them make a suitable choice. The following factors affect the decision on the type of surgical treatment to choose:
  • Size of a patient’s affected breast and the cancerous tissue.
  • The location of cancer in the breast area and its chances of spreading to other body parts.
  • General health conditions.
  • The patient's attitude towards surgical procedures like the removal of their breasts.
What Are the Types of Surgical Options to Treat Breast Cancer?

The following are the most common types of breast cancer surgery to consider:

  • Breast-Conserving Surgery: This surgery focuses on removing only the cancerous part while preserving most of the breast tissue. Also known as lumpectomy, this procedure ensures that the patient retains their breasts. However, one usually requires radiation therapy after the surgery to prevent the further spread of cancer. This surgery can have variations like quadrantectomy, segmental mastectomy, and partial mastectomy based on how much tissue requires removal.
  • Mastectomy: This surgical option involves the removal of the entire breast to get rid of the cancerous tissue. The surgeon removes the breast tissue along with the tissue on the chest wall. Some women may be hesitant to go for this option but it can have incredible benefits for managing cancer. Patients can seek breast reconstruction surgery to recreate their breasts.
  • Lymph Node Removal: The doctors may perform surgery to remove the lymph nodes near the cancerous tissue if it spreads to that area.
  • Breast Reconstruction Surgery: Patients can opt for breast reconstruction surgery after lumpectomy or mastectomy to develop their breasts again.

You can consult a qualified oncologist to discuss your options to treat breast cancer. Get in touch with Ace Medicare to get a personalized treatment plan and top-notch medical care today!