Breast Surgery
Breast surgery encompasses surgical methods used for the treatment of breast cancer and the management of various breast conditions. Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in women, and surgical intervention is a crucial part of the treatment process. Breast surgery varies depending on factors such as the tumor's size, type, and the patient's overall health. The procedures aim to improve the patient's quality of life, reduce the risk of cancer spread, and consider aesthetic concerns to preserve the appearance of the breast. Breast surgery is generally divided into three main categories: lumpectomy, breast conserving surgery and mastectomy. These types of surgery are chosen according to the individual needs of patients and each is suitable for different situations.
Surgical interventions for patients diagnosed with breast cancer. Early diagnosis leads to a higher success rate.
It is the surgical removal of lumps within the breast. This procedure helps assess lumps that may carry a cancer risk.
It is the reconstruction of tissue lost after breast cancer. It provides aesthetic and psychological support to patients.
1. Lumpectomy
Lumpectomy is a surgical procedure aimed at removing a limited portion of breast tissue, usually along with the tumor. This procedure is commonly used in the early stages of breast cancer and involves removing not only the cancerous tissue but also a small amount of surrounding healthy tissue. Lumpectomy is particularly used when the tumor does not affect a large portion of the breast tissue. The surgeon's goal is to remove all cancerous cells while preserving as much healthy breast tissue as possible. Therefore, it can be an aesthetically advantageous option for the patient. After lumpectomy, patients typically undergo radiation therapy. Radiation therapy helps to destroy any remaining cancer cells after surgery and reduces the risk of cancer recurrence. Lumpectomy is highly effective in the early stages of cancer and allows patients to preserve most of their breast tissue.
2. Breast Conserving Surgery
Breast-conserving surgery is a treatment method that aims to remove the tumor tissue while preserving the surrounding healthy breast tissue. Lumpectomy falls under this category; however, in some cases, due to the size or location of the tumor, a wider area may need to be removed. The goal of this surgical procedure is to completely eliminate the cancerous tissue while preserving the aesthetic appearance of the breast as much as possible. Breast-conserving surgery is typically recommended for early-stage breast cancer patients and is usually followed by radiation therapy. Radiation therapy helps to destroy any remaining cancer cells that may be left behind. This surgical approach offers a significant advantage in maintaining the patient's body image, as it generally does not cause significant deformity in the breast after the tumor is removed. Post-surgery follow-up and regular check-ups are critical in minimizing the risk of cancer recurrence after breast-conserving surgery.
3. Mastectomy
Mastectomy is the surgical removal of the entire breast and is typically performed when there is a high risk of cancer spreading or when the tumor is large. This surgical method is an effective treatment option for advanced-stage breast cancer. Mastectomy may be performed on one breast, but in some cases, both breasts may need to be removed (bilateral mastectomy). After surgery, patients are monitored with an appropriate treatment plan and follow-up process. Following a mastectomy, patients may consider breast reconstruction surgery, which can significantly restore the aesthetic appearance of the breast. Additionally, patients who undergo mastectomy may require additional treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or hormonal therapy. These treatments aim to minimize the risk of cancer recurrence. Psychological support is also a crucial part of the process for patients undergoing mastectomy, as the loss of a breast can be emotionally and physically challenging. Therefore, both physical and psychological rehabilitation during the recovery process are important.
After Breast Surgery
Patients who undergo breast surgery enter a recovery process, and this period can vary from person to person. During recovery, wound care, regular doctor visits, and physical rehabilitation when necessary are crucial. After breast surgery, some patients may experience pain, swelling, or limited mobility; in such cases, physical therapy and regular exercises can contribute to the healing process. Additionally, the post-surgical period can be psychologically challenging. Breast loss or changes in shape may lead to emotional distress, so psychological support for patients is important. Supportive treatments, such as radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or hormonal therapy, may be part of the post-surgical process and can be applied to prevent cancer recurrence. Regular doctor check-ups and monitoring after surgery allow for early detection of cancer recurrence and the implementation of necessary precautions.
