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Wanted to see how many had reduction and lift during their lumpectomy? And where your margins are clear?

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Cheltenham, PA

I have Invasive Lobular Carcinoma grade 2 stage 1B . I have two masses one SP size and one is a pencil eraser size in the same quadrants area.

February 16
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A MyBCTeam Member

I had a lumpectomy and oncoplastic reduction as well. My margins were very clear as my surgeon made wide margins and the reduction allowed her to do that successfully, since more tissue is removed anyway. The other point she had made to me was the importance of those clear margins because after an oncoplastic reduction, breast tissue is moved around, making a second margin surgery not possible, leaving a mastectomy as the only option if the margins are not clear. So she was warning me that she would go wide so it could be a one and done surgery. She was successful! The recovery was hard with the extra work done and has been a slow process but ultimately I am happy with my decision. Keeping my breast was important to me and fortunately the reduction came out great. I’m hoping radiation doesn’t change things too much long term. 🤞
Praying you get the best results possible’

February 27
MyBCTeam

How common is it to have a breast reduction and lift during lumpectomy, and what are the chances of clear margins?

While the search results don't specifically mention how many people combine reduction and lift procedures with lumpectomy, some people do consider breast reconstruction or cosmetic procedures after lumpectomy Show Full Answer

How common is it to have a breast reduction and lift during lumpectomy, and what are the chances of clear margins?

While the search results don't specifically mention how many people combine reduction and lift procedures with lumpectomy, some people do consider breast reconstruction or cosmetic procedures after lumpectomy to restore shape and symmetry. This is a personal choice you can discuss with a plastic surgeon who specializes in breast reconstruction.

Regarding margins, achieving clear (negative) margins means no cancer tissue remains at the edges of removed tissue, which reduces the risk of cancer cells regrowing or spreading. However, about 25 percent of people need an additional lumpectomy because their first surgery didn't achieve negative margins.

With your two masses in the same area, your surgeon will work to remove both tumors with surrounding healthy tissue. Chemotherapy and radiation can help shrink tumors and improve the chances of clear margins when provided alongside surgery.

The decision about combining cosmetic procedures with your lumpectomy depends on factors like tumor size, location, and your personal preferences. Talk with both your breast surgeon and a plastic surgeon about your options and timing for any reconstruction work.

February 16

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