A lumpectomy, as the name implies, involves the removal of a lump, primarily from the breast.
According to Globocan data, breast cancer represented 13.5% of all cancer cases reported in India in 2020, making it the most prevalent form of cancer.
This surgical procedure, also known as “breast-conserving surgery,” “wide local excision,” “quadrantectomy,” or “excisional biopsy,” aims to eliminate cancer cells while preserving as much breast tissue as possible.
Lumpectomy is often referred to as “partial mastectomy,” as it entails the removal of a portion of the breast tissue rather than the complete breast, which is characteristic of a mastectomy.
What is Lumpectomy?
A lumpectomy is a breast surgery that removes a small section of breast tissue, including a malignant tumor and some surrounding healthy tissue, to ensure all cancerous cells are eradicated.
For patients with small lumps, sometimes only detectable through imaging, our doctors may recommend a lumpectomy.
This procedure is a minor outpatient surgery, meaning patients can typically return home the same day. Although it is performed under general anesthesia, it is considered a straightforward operation.
Why is a Lumpectomy Recommended?
Doctors recommend a lumpectomy to remove cancer cells while maintaining the breast’s appearance.
We advise women to have annual mammograms starting at age 40, as even microscopic lumps can be detected during screenings. If imaging shows abnormal growth, our healthcare team will likely suggest a lumpectomy.
Patients should not be overly concerned about this procedure, especially if cancer is detected early. Early diagnosis significantly increases the chances of breast preservation and complete recovery.
In some cases, lumpectomy can also eliminate precancerous or benign tissue from the breast.
When is Lumpectomy Not Recommended?
A lumpectomy may not be advisable under certain conditions, such as:
- A history of scleroderma (a skin-hardening disease)
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (a chronic inflammatory condition exacerbated by radiation)
- Multiple tumors in the breast
- Prior radiation treatment to the breast
- Existing cancer in other parts of the body
- A large tumor in small breasts, which could lead to breast shape distortion and complicate potential reconstructive surgery.
Preparing for a Lumpectomy
To prepare for a breast lumpectomy, patients should:
- Consult with their doctor about the procedure.
- Carefully read and ask questions regarding the consent form.
- Provide comprehensive medical history, including allergies and bleeding disorders.
- Inform the doctor if they are pregnant.
- Share a list of current medications.
- Listen attentively to the healthcare provider’s instructions and try to relax.
How is a Lumpectomy Performed?
During a lumpectomy, the surgeon removes cancer cells from the breast and may also extract some lymph nodes under the arm if there’s suspicion of cancer spread.
For smaller lumps, a standard lumpectomy is performed. For larger lumps, an oncoplastic approach may be necessary, involving techniques to reshape the breast. The procedure typically lasts about an hour.
Since cancer cells can blend in with breast tissue, we mark the affected area with a wire or chip before the surgery. After preparing the patient, we administer general anesthesia, allowing them to rest comfortably during the operation.
During the procedure, the surgeon excises the lump along with some surrounding tissue. Pain management is provided through injections at the surgery site, and marking clips are placed to identify the radiation target for future treatments.
The incision is then closed using dissolvable stitches. Patients recover in a designated area and, if everything goes well, can return home the same day.
Post-Surgery Care
Recovery from a lumpectomy may take two weeks or longer. Patients may experience some weakness and discomfort during the initial days, with healing time varying based on the lump’s size and the individual’s overall health.
It’s crucial for patients to prioritize their health post-surgery to promote healing. Pain relief medication will be prescribed to manage discomfort.
Before discharge, we provide instructions for self-care, including:
- Incision care and dressing changes
- Medication details, including dosages and timing
- Guidelines for resuming shoulder exercises and normal activities, including bathing
- Signs to monitor, such as swelling, fluid accumulation, redness, or increased pain
Patients should adhere to these guidelines and promptly consult their doctor if they notice any concerning symptoms.
Risks Associated with a Lumpectomy
Like any surgery, lumpectomy carries potential risks. After the procedure, patients might experience bleeding at the incision site, breast swelling, changes in breast size or shape, or infection.
There is also a possibility of seroma, which is a clear fluid accumulation in the breast that may need to be drained. Scar tissue can develop, and if lymph nodes are removed, patients might experience pain and swelling in the arm.
Conclusion
Receiving a diagnosis of breast cancer can be distressing. However, regular self-examinations and annual screenings after age 40 significantly enhance the likelihood of early detection.
When cancer is identified early, lumpectomy offers a minimally invasive surgical option for successful treatment. At Yupiter Hospital, we provide comprehensive breast cancer screening and treatment services.
Our facilities feature a thorough breast screening program and advanced techniques for scarless breast-conserving surgery.
Our team comprises highly skilled breast cancer surgeons with extensive experience, having performed over 5,000 successful surgeries. We also offer a chemotherapy daycare lounge and 24/7 in-house radiology and diagnostic services.
