Types of Breast Cancer Treatment: What You Need to Know

Breast cancer treatment continues to advance and improve, offering more options than ever before. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with breast cancer, understanding available treatments can help you make an informed decision alongside your doctor.

Localized Treatments for Breast Cancer

Localized treatments focus on removing or targeting the tumor without affecting the rest of the body. In most cases, surgery is required, but additional treatments may be recommended depending on the cancer’s type and stage.

Surgical Options for Breast Cancer

• Lumpectomy – The tumor and a small margin of surrounding normal tissue are removed, preserving most of the breast. This is often followed by radiation therapy to reduce recurrence.
• Mastectomy – The entire breast is surgically removed. In some cases, this is the only option based on tumor size, location, or patient preference.

Some patients may also require breast reconstruction surgery after a mastectomy to restore breast shape and appearance.

Systemic Treatments for Breast Cancer

Systemic therapy uses medications that circulate throughout the body, targeting cancer cells wherever they may be. These treatments are often used before or after surgery to reduce tumor size or prevent recurrence.

Types of Systemic Breast Cancer Treatments

• Chemotherapy – Given orally or intravenously, chemotherapy targets and destroys cancer cells throughout the body.
  • Before surgery → Shrinks tumors to allow for less extensive surgery.
  • After surgery → Kills any remaining cancer cells to prevent recurrence.
• Hormone Therapy – Certain breast cancers grow due to hormones like estrogen and progesterone. Hormone therapy works by:
  • Blocking the body’s production of these hormones.
  • Preventing cancer cells from attaching to hormones.
  • Typically taken for 5–10 years post-surgery to reduce recurrence risk.
• Targeted Therapy – Unlike chemotherapy, which attacks all fast-growing cells, targeted therapy pinpoints specific cancer-related changes to block tumor growth. This can sometimes work when chemotherapy does not.
• Immunotherapy – A newer treatment that boosts the immune system’s ability to detect and destroy cancer cells. While still evolving, immunotherapy is showing promise in certain breast cancer cases.

What Type of Doctor Should You See for Breast Cancer Treatment?

Depending on your diagnosis, you may work with multiple specialists to create a personalized treatment plan:

• Breast Surgeon – Performs lumpectomies or mastectomies and may work with a plastic surgeon for reconstruction.
• Medical Oncologist – Oversees chemotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.
• Radiation Oncologist – Administers radiation therapy when needed to destroy remaining cancer cells.
• Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon – Specializes in breast reconstruction after a mastectomy.
• Primary Care Provider (PCP) – Helps coordinate general health and wellness during treatment and recovery.

Comprehensive Breast Cancer Care at BASS Medical Group

At BASS Medical Group, our expert team of breast surgeons, oncologists, and specialists at our BASS Cancer Center provide personalized treatment plans to ensure the best possible care. Whether you need surgery, systemic therapy, or support in managing breast cancer, we’re here for you every step of the way.

Schedule an appointment today to discuss your treatment options and next steps with our expert team.