Potential Risks in Breast Cancer Surgery

What Are the Main Types of Breast Cancer Surgery?

Lumpectomy

A lumpectomy removes:

• The tumor
• A small margin of healthy tissue

This approach preserves most of the breast and is typically performed as an outpatient procedure.

Mastectomy

A mastectomy removes the entire breast and may sometimes include breast reconstruction.

The best surgical approach depends on:

• Tumor size
• Cancer stage
• Patient preference
• Need for radiation therapy
• Genetic and medical factors

What Is Recovery Like After Breast Cancer Surgery?

Lumpectomy Recovery

Recovery after lumpectomy is usually quicker.

Many patients:

• Return home the same day
• Resume light activities within days
• Return to work relatively quickly

Mastectomy Recovery

Recovery after mastectomy generally takes longer, especially when reconstruction is performed.

Some reconstruction procedures may require several weeks of healing.

What Is Breast Reconstruction?

Many mastectomy patients are offered reconstruction as part of their treatment plan.

Reconstruction may involve:

• Implants
• Tissue flap procedures
• Collaboration with a plastic surgeon

The timing and type of reconstruction vary based on patient preference and medical considerations.

What Are Possible Surgical Risks?

Potential complications may include:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Delayed wound healing
• Skin complications
• Implant-related complications

These complications are uncommon, but patients should discuss individual risks with their surgeon.

Why Are Lymph Nodes Removed?

During surgery, doctors may remove lymph nodes from the armpit to determine whether cancer has spread.

This may involve:

Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy

Removal of a few key lymph nodes.

Axillary Lymph Node Dissection

Removal of more lymph nodes when necessary.

What Is Lymphedema?

Lymphedema is swelling caused by fluid buildup after lymph node removal.

Symptoms may include:

• Arm swelling
• Heaviness
• Tightness
• Discomfort

The risk varies depending on how many lymph nodes are removed.

Your care team may discuss ways to help reduce lymphedema risk and monitor symptoms after surgery.

Is Breast Cancer Surgery Usually Well Tolerated?

Yes. Most patients recover successfully and are able to return to normal activities over time.

Recovery depends on:

• Type of surgery
• Reconstruction procedures
• Overall health
• Individual healing response

About Dr. Danielle Bertoni

Dr. Danielle Bertoni is a breast surgical oncologist at the Gregory Rhodes MD Cancer Center specializing in breast cancer surgery, breast conservation, high-risk breast care, and survivorship.

Video Transcript

There are two main types of breast cancer surgery: lumpectomy and mastectomy.

In a lumpectomy, the tumor is removed along with a small margin of normal tissue, while a mastectomy involves removing the entire breast.

A lumpectomy is a small outpatient procedure, and recovery is generally quick.

In contrast, recovery from a mastectomy, especially with reconstruction, typically takes longer.

Both surgeries have risks, including bleeding and infection, although these complications are rare.

We often need to remove some lymph nodes from the armpit to check if cancer has spread.

One potential complication from removing lymph nodes is lymphedema, where fluid builds up in the arm causing swelling and heaviness.

Overall, breast cancer surgery is generally well tolerated, and most patients recover quickly and successfully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lumpectomy easier to recover from than mastectomy?

In many cases, yes. Lumpectomy recovery is usually shorter and less extensive.

What is lymphedema?

Lymphedema is swelling that can occur after lymph node removal during breast cancer surgery.

Do all mastectomy patients get reconstruction?

Not always, but reconstruction is commonly offered and discussed during treatment planning.

How long does recovery take after breast cancer surgery?

Recovery varies depending on the procedure and whether reconstruction is performed