Surgery, breast conserving or mastectomy
When the breast can be preserved and when removal is necessary.
Surgery is a central step for many types of breast cancer. There are two basic approaches. In breast conserving surgery, only the tumor is removed along with a margin of healthy tissue, and the breast is preserved. In a mastectomy, the breast tissue is removed completely.
Which approach fits depends on the size and location of the tumor, on its relationship to the size of the breast, and on your own wishes. After breast conserving surgery, radiation therapy usually follows. Radiation therapy
During surgery, a few lymph nodes in the armpit are often examined as well, to see whether the tumor has spread. After a mastectomy, reconstruction is possible if you wish. Breast reconstruction
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This content is for information only and does not replace medical advice.