In Laguna Hills, California, board-certified general surgeon Dr. Elvira Klause helps women understand their breast surgery options so they can take an active role in their care.
For many women, that includes choosing between lumpectomy and mastectomy. Knowing a few important facts about these procedures can make that decision feel less overwhelming.
A lumpectomy removes the tumor along with a margin of surrounding healthy tissue while preserving most of the breast. A mastectomy removes the entire breast.
It might seem logical that removing more tissue would always offer an advantage. However, research has found that women who are candidates for either procedure live just as long after breast-conserving surgery combined with radiation therapy as those who undergo mastectomy.
That makes other differences between the procedures especially important when considering your options.
Not everyone with breast cancer is a candidate for both procedures.
Other factors include:
Another important factor is whether it’s possible to remove the cancer with clear margins — meaning no cancer cells are found at the outer edge of the removed tissue. If cancer remains at the margin after a lumpectomy, you could need another surgery in the future.
The procedures can also lead to different treatment and recovery experiences.
Lumpectomy is less extensive and usually offers a shorter recovery, but most women need radiation afterward to achieve the best result.
Mastectomy involves a longer recovery and permanent loss of the breast, although reconstruction may be an option. Some women who have a mastectomy may be able to avoid radiation, but that depends on the cancer and individual factors.
Long-term changes can be another consideration. Lumpectomy usually preserves more breast sensation, while mastectomy can cause significant or complete loss of sensation in the breast area.
When both procedures are medically appropriate, there is not one universally “better” choice. How you feel about preserving your breast, radiation, reconstruction, recovery, future screening, and the possibility of additional surgery are all part of the conversation.
Dr. Klause considers your diagnosis, health, cancer risk, and personal priorities when discussing your options. She helps you understand the facts before making a breast cancer treatment decision you feel confident about.
If you’ve been diagnosed with breast cancer and need help understanding your surgical options, call Dr. Klause’s Laguna Hills, California, office at 949-245-6910 to book your consultation now.
