BREAST CANCER SURGERY: OVERVIEW

The cornerstone at all stages of treatment is the complete removal of the tumour in the breast. For a great number of patients these days, this does not necessarily involve the removal of the whole breast, as the cancer can be treated using breast conservation therapy. This means that only the tumour and a surrounding rim of healthy tissue is removed.

If the diagnosis comes at a later stage, when the cancerous tumour is already too large, or the biological make-up of the tumour and/or anatomical attributes of the affected patient rule out the possibility of breast conservation surgery, complete removal of the breast must be considered.

As part of any breast conservation or breast reconstruction surgery, a section of the lymph nodes will be taken from the armpit on the same side as the affected breast. This procedure is designed to check whether the disease has spread to the lymph system (regional metastasis). For many patients, amputation of the breast is an extremely traumatic prospect. This is why more and more women are now opting for simultaneous breast reconstruction.

The correct oncoplastic approach is to take into account both the cancer disease (onco), and the physical integrity and appearance (plastic) of the patient from the very beginning.

Together with your surgeon, you will discuss the most appropriate treatment option in your specific case. Every method has its own advantages and disadvantages and these will be discussed with you in detail during your private consultation. The choice of treatment depends on a number of different factors (your diagnosis, stage of disease, physical condition, state of general health, aesthetic and personal preferences).