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Mastectomy or lumpectomy

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
St Paul, MN
March 9
 · 
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MyBCTeam

Which surgery is right for you?

Both lumpectomy and mastectomy are equally effective treatments for breast cancer, and studies show similar long-term survival rates. The choice depends on your specific situation and personal preferences.

Lumpectomy (breast-conserving surgery) removes the tumor plus a small amount of Show Full Answer

Which surgery is right for you?

Both lumpectomy and mastectomy are equally effective treatments for breast cancer, and studies show similar long-term survival rates. The choice depends on your specific situation and personal preferences.

Lumpectomy (breast-conserving surgery) removes the tumor plus a small amount of healthy tissue around it. It's typically followed by radiation therapy and may be right for you if you:

* Want to keep as much breast tissue as possible
* Have a small tumor compared to your breast size
* Have one small tumor shown on imaging
* Can safely receive radiation treatment
* Prefer to avoid more extensive surgery

Mastectomy removes all breast tissue from one or both breasts. You might consider this if you:

* Have inflammatory breast cancer
* Have a large tumor in a small breast
* Have cancer spread throughout the breast
* Previously had radiation to the same breast
* Want to avoid radiation therapy (though it's sometimes still needed)
* Feel more peace of mind with complete tissue removal

Recovery differences:

Lumpectomy typically has a shorter recovery (about two weeks) with fewer long-term side effects. Mastectomy may involve longer recovery with more potential for scarring, pain, and numbness.

Cancer recurrence:

With lumpectomy plus radiation, there's about a 5-10% chance of cancer returning in the same breast. With mastectomy, the risk is around 5%.

This is a personal decision best made with your cancer care team, considering your tumor characteristics, overall health, and what feels right for you.

March 9
A MyBCTeam Member

Keeping you in prayers while you research, and determine the best answer for you! Hugs!

March 11
A MyBCTeam Member

Ah, the question of the century! I struggled with this one.
Because I am TNBC, I had to have chemo first. My surgeon made her recommendation, and told me since I had the “gift of time” during chemo to do some research and get a second opinion. The second opinion could give you another option or could reinforce the first recommendation.
Once you make a decision, you have to embrace it and let go.
Wishing you well!

March 11
A MyBCTeam Member

Oops, commented on wrong post.

March 10 (edited)

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