Lumpectomy Procedure
A lumpectomy, also known as breast-conserving surgery,it is a surgical procedure used to remove a tumour or lump from the breast while preserving as much of the healthy breast tissue as possible.
What It Does: During a lumpectomy, the tumour and a surrounding margin of healthy tissue are removed. The goal is to treat breast cancer or other breast conditions while maintaining the appearance of the breast and minimizing the need for complete breast removal ( mastectomy).
Indications of Lumpectomy Procedure:
- Indications: Lumpectomy is indicated for individuals with early-stage breast cancer or certain benign breast conditions where the tumour or lump is small and localized.
- Purpose: The primary purpose of lumpectomy is to remove cancerous from the breast while preserving the breast's appearance. It is often followed by radiation therapy to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence further.
Who will treat for Lumpectomy Procedure:
Breast Surgeons or Surgical Oncologists: Lumpectomy surgeries are performed by breast surgeons or surgical oncologists specialising in breast cancer treatment and breast surgery.
Whom to Contact:
- Primary Care Physicians: Consult your physician if you have breast concerns or symptoms. They can refer you to a specialist for further evaluation.
- Breast Centers: Research and contact breast centres with experienced breast surgeons or oncologists.
- Hospitals with Breast Surgery Departments: Contact hospitals with specialized breast surgery departments that offer lumpectomy services.
- Breast Cancer Support Organizations: Organizations specializing in breast cancer support can provide information, resources, and guidance.
- Referring Physicians: Your primary care physician or referring specialist can provide referrals to breast surgeons or surgical oncologists.
Preparing for Lumpectomy Procedure:
- Medical Evaluation: Your surgeon will conduct a thorough medical evaluation, including reviewing your medical history, performing physical exams, and ordering necessary tests (such as imaging or biopsies) to assess the tumour and plan the surgery.
- Preoperative Instructions: Follow any preoperative instructions provided by your surgical team. This might include medication guidelines, fasting before surgery, and any necessary lifestyle adjustments.
- Medications: Inform your surgeon about any medications you are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and supplements. Your surgeon may adjust your medication regimen before surgery.
- Nutrition and Hydration: A balanced diet and stay hydrated to support your body's healing process.
- Smoking and Alcohol: If you smoke, consider quitting or reducing smoking, as it can affect healing. Limit alcohol consumption before surgery.
- Anesthesia Discussion: Discuss the type of anaesthesia used with your surgical team during the surgery.
- Clothing and Comfort: Wear comfortable clothing to the surgery and follow any specific instructions your surgical team provides.
- Communication: If you have any questions or concerns about the surgery, don't hesitate to communicate with your surgical team.
What Happens During Lumpectomy Surgery:
During a lumpectomy surgery, the following steps typically take place:
- Anaesthesia: You will be given anaesthesia to ensure you are asleep and pain-free during the procedure. The type of anaesthesia (general or local with sedation) will be discussed with you before the surgery.
- Incision: The surgeon will make an incision over the breast area of the tumour. The size and location of the incision may based on the tumour's characteristics and location.
- Tumour Removal: The surgeon will carefully remove the tumour or lump and a surrounding margin of healthy tissue.
- Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy: In some cases, a sentinel lymph node biopsy might be performed during the lumpectomy to check if cancer cells have spread to nearby lymph nodes.
- Wound Closure: The incision will be sutured and closed once the tumour is removed. Sterile dressings may be applied.
- Surgical Drains: Depending on the surgical approach and extent of tissue removal.
- Pathology Examination: The removed tissue will be examined under a microscope to determine if the margins are clear of cancer cells and to assess the characteristics of the tumour.
- Recovery: Aft.er the surgery, you will be taken to a recovery area to wake up from anaesthesia. Depending on the anaesthesia used, you may spend a few hours in the hospital or be discharged on the same day.
Recovery After Lumpectomy Surgery Procedure:
Recovery after a lumpectomy surgery involves several phases:
- Pain Management: After the surgery, you may experience some pain, discomfort, and swelling. Your surgical team will provide pain relief instructions and medications if needed.
- Wound Care: Follow your surgeon's guidelines for wound care, including keeping the incision clean and dry.
- Physical Activity: While you'll need to avoid strenuous activities initially, light walking and gentle arm exercises can help prevent stiffness and improve circulation.
- Surgical Drains: If you have surgical drains, your surgeon will provide instructions on how to care for them and when they will be removed.
- Follow-Up Appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your surgical team. These appointments are crucial for monitoring your healing and addressing any concerns.
- Pathology Results: Your surgeon will discuss the results of the pathology examination and whether any additional treatment, such as radiation therapy or further surgeries, is recommended.
Lifestyle Changes After Lumpectomy Surgery:
- Healthy Diet: Maintain a balanced diet rich in nutrients to support your body's healing process.
- Physical Activity: Gradually resume physical activities as guided by your surgeon. Engage in light exercises and arm mobility exercises to prevent stiffness.
- Lymphedema Prevention: If lymph nodes were removed during the procedure, avoid lymphedema, such as avoiding tight clothing and protecting the arm from injuries.
- Follow Medical Advice: Adhere to your surgeon's recommendations regarding wound care, medications, and follow-up appointments.
