Description: Breast lump removal is the surgical removal of a cancerous or non-cancerous lump inside the breast.
Article:
Breast lump surgery removal (Lumpectomy) is performed to remove cancer or other abnormal tissues (lumps) from the breast.
Lumpectomy is one treatment option for early-stage breast cancer; sometimes, this procedure is used to rule out a cancer diagnosis.
Most people might need radiation treatments after a lumpectomy to destroy any remaining cancer cells and prevent cancer reoccurrence.
Your doctor will recommend a lumpectomy if a biopsy has shown cancer that is small and at an early stage. Sometimes, a lumpectomy may also be performed to remove specific noncancerous or precancerous breast abnormalities.
What to expect during the surgery?
- Sometimes, the doctor cannot feel the lump during the examination; in such cases, wire localization is done before the surgery.
- The doctor will perform a mammogram or ultrasound to place a needle wire in or near the abnormal breast area. This will help the surgeon detect the exact location of cancer during removal.
- Breast lump removal is an outpatient surgery performed under general anesthesia (you will be asleep and pain-free) or local anesthesia (you are awake but sedated and pain-free). The procedure takes about one hour.
How to prepare for a breast lump surgery removal?
- Prior to the surgery, you will be physically examined, and other imaging tests like X-rays or mammography are performed to determine the size and shape of the tumor.
- Tell your doctor about any allergies and medications you are using and if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant.
- Your doctor will ask you to stop taking blood thinners for a week before the surgery.
- You need to fast and avoid drinking liquids up to 8-12 hours prior to the surgery.
– Once the surgery is completed, you may have a little pain but the recovery time is very short.
– You may be prescribed certain pain medications for a period of time.
– You also need to take care of the surgical cut and change your dressing as instructed by the doctor.
– Watch for symptoms of infections like redness, swelling, or drainage from the incision.
- Most women can get back to their regular activities in a week.
- Avoid heavy lifting, jogging, or activities that cause pain in the surgical area for 1-2 weeks.
Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, have any allergic reactions, or using any medications before the surgery.
