Types of Lumpectomy

• Standard Lumpectomy: Removes the tumor along with a small margin of healthy surrounding tissue. This is the most commonly performed lumpectomy type.
• Oncoplastic Lumpectomy: Combines cancer removal with cosmetic reshaping of the breast, aiming for better appearance and symmetry post-surgery.
• Wire-Localized Lumpectomy: This involves placing a thin wire to locate small or non-palpable tumors before surgery, for precise placement.
• Sentinel Node Biopsy (Optional): Performed during lumpectomy to evaluate whether cancer has spread to the lymph nodes under the arm.

Key Takeaways

• Type of Procedure: Breast-conserving surgical procedure
• Duration: 1 to 2 hours
• Anesthesia Used: General anesthesia
• Recovery Time: 1 to 2 weeks for initial healing
• Success Rate: High, especially when combined with radiation therapy
• Side Effects: May include swelling, numbness, bruising, and minor discomfort

Indications of Lumpectomy

Lumpectomy is performed to:

• Remove early-stage breast cancer.
• Preserve breast shape while treating cancer.
• Treat non-invasive tumors like Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS).
• Remove suspicious or precancerous lumps.
• Reduce the need for full mastectomy in appropriate cases.

Who Performs Lumpectomy Surgery?

Lumpectomy surgeries are performed by breast surgeons or surgical oncologists specialising in breast cancer treatment and breast surgery.

• Primary Care Physicians: Consult your physician for breast concerns or symptoms. They can refer you to a specialist for further evaluation.
• Breast Centers: Research and contact breast centres with experienced breast surgeons or oncologists.
• Hospitals with Breast Surgery Departments: Contact hospitals with specialized breast surgery departments that offer lumpectomy services.
• Breast Cancer Support Organizations: Organizations specializing in breast cancer support can provide information, resources, and guidance.
• Referring Physicians: Your primary care physician or referring specialist can provide referrals to breast surgeons or surgical oncologists.

Preparing for Lumpectomy Surgery

• Medical Evaluation: Your surgeon will review your health history, conduct physical exams, and order tests like imaging or biopsies to plan the surgery.
• Preoperative Instructions: Follow any fasting or medication instructions given by the surgical team before the procedure.
• Medications: Inform your surgeon about your current medications and supplements. Adjustments may be required.
• Nutrition and Hydration: Ensure you're well-hydrated and maintain a healthy diet to help with healing.
• Smoking and Alcohol: Avoid smoking and reduce alcohol intake, as they can affect healing.
• Anesthesia Discussion: Discuss the type of anesthesia used with your surgical team during the surgery.
• Clothing: Wear comfortable clothing to the surgery and follow any specific instructions.

What Happens During a Lumpectomy Procedure?

• Anesthesia: General anesthesia is administered to ensure your comfort and pain.
• Incision: The surgeon makes an incision over the breast area of the tumor. The incision's location and size depend on the tumor's characteristics.
• Tumor Removal: The surgeon carefully removes the tumor along with a small margin of healthy tissue surrounding it.
• Biopsy: In some cases, a biopsy may be performed to check if the cancer has spread to lymph nodes.
• Wound Closure: The incision is stitched closed, and sterile dressings are applied.
• Pathology Examination: The removed tissue is sent for lab analysis to ensure all cancerous cells have been removed and to determine the tumor's characteristics.

Benefits of Lumpectomy

• Preserves natural breast shape.
• Minimally invasive compared to mastectomy.
• High success rate for early-stage breast cancer.
• Shorter recovery time.

Risks of Lumpectomy

• Infection or bleeding.
• Changes in breast appearance.
• Numbness or tingling around the incision.
• Seroma (fluid buildup).
• Potential for additional surgery if margins are not clear.

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Post-Surgery Care for Lumpectomy Surgery

• Same-day discharge: Most patients return home the same day.
• Wound care: Keep the surgical site clean and dry.
• Pain management: Mild pain is expected and managed with oral medication.
• Swelling and bruising: Common but temporary side effects.
• Drainage: May be placed if fluid accumulation is expected.

Recovery After Lumpectomy Surgery Procedure

Recovery after a lumpectomy surgery involves several phases:

• Pain Management: After the surgery, you may experience some pain, discomfort, and swelling. Your surgical team will provide pain relief instructions and medications if needed.
• Wound Care: Follow your surgeon's guidelines for wound care, including keeping the incision clean and dry.
• Physical Activity: While you'll need to avoid strenuous activities initially, light walking and gentle arm exercises can help prevent stiffness and improve circulation.
• Surgical Drains: If you have surgical drains, your surgeon will provide instructions on how to care for them and when they will be removed.
• Follow-Up Appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your surgical team. These appointments are crucial for monitoring your healing and addressing any concerns.
• Pathology Results: Your surgeon will discuss the results of the pathology examination and whether any additional treatment, such as radiation therapy or further surgeries, is recommended.

Tips for Smooth Recovery

• Wear a supportive bra to reduce discomfort.
• Sleep with the upper body elevated.
• Apply cold packs to reduce swelling.
• Report unusual symptoms like fever or excessive swelling.

Lifestyle Changes After Lumpectomy Surgery

• Healthy Diet: Maintain a balanced diet rich in nutrients to support your body's healing process.
• Physical Activity: Gradually resume physical activities as guided by your surgeon. Engage in light exercises and arm mobility exercises to prevent stiffness.
• Lymphedema Prevention: If lymph nodes were removed during the procedure, avoid lymphedema, such as avoiding tight clothing and protecting the arm from injuries.
• Follow Medical Advice: Adhere to your surgeon's recommendations regarding wound care, medications, and follow-up appointments.