Cancer treatment
Lumpectomy
A lumpectomy removes a breast cancer along with a margin of normal tissue, keeping most of the breast.
Quick answer
Lumpectomy: what it is, why it's done and what happens
A lumpectomy (breast-conserving surgery) removes the tumour and a rim of surrounding healthy tissue, preserving as much of the breast as possible. It is usually followed by radiotherapy.
- Why it is done: It is used to treat breast cancer that is small enough relative to the breast to be removed while keeping a good shape, offering an alternative to mastectomy with similar outcomes when combined with radiotherapy.
- What happens: Under general anaesthetic, the surgeon removes the lump and a margin, sometimes also checking lymph nodes.
What it is
A lumpectomy (breast-conserving surgery) removes the tumour and a rim of surrounding healthy tissue, preserving as much of the breast as possible. It is usually followed by radiotherapy.
Why it is done
It is used to treat breast cancer that is small enough relative to the breast to be removed while keeping a good shape, offering an alternative to mastectomy with similar outcomes when combined with radiotherapy.
What happens
Under general anaesthetic, the surgeon removes the lump and a margin, sometimes also checking lymph nodes. It is often a day case or short stay lasting about an hour.
Recovery
Recovery over one to two weeks is usual, with mild soreness and bruising. Radiotherapy usually follows a few weeks later, and further treatments such as hormone therapy may be recommended.
Good to know
Risks and things to consider
Risks include bleeding, infection, changes in breast shape, and occasionally needing more surgery if the margins are not clear. Radiotherapy is generally needed to reduce the risk of the cancer returning.
Education and reference only. This explains the procedure in general terms and is not medical advice. Your own care, risks and recovery will be explained by the team looking after you.
Answers
Lumpectomy: frequently asked questions
Is a lumpectomy as effective as a mastectomy?
For suitable cancers, breast-conserving surgery with radiotherapy gives outcomes similar to mastectomy, while keeping most of the breast. Your team will advise which is right for your cancer.
Why do I need radiotherapy after a lumpectomy?
Radiotherapy treats any remaining cancer cells in the breast, reducing the risk of the cancer coming back. It is usually a standard part of breast-conserving treatment.
Related
Other cancer treatment
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Tests and treatments
- NICE — cancer treatment guidance
- Relevant Royal College / professional body
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