What is a lumpectomy?

A lumpectomy, sometimes called wide local excision, is a type of breast-conserving surgery that removes a lump or tumour from your breast along with a small amount of healthy tissue around it. Unlike a mastectomy, which removes the entire breast, a lumpectomy allows you to keep most of your breast while ensuring all abnormal or cancerous tissue is removed.

This surgery is commonly used to treat early-stage breast cancer or to remove benign (non-cancerous) lumps. For many women, it offers an effective treatment while preserving the appearance of their breast.

Why might you need a lumpectomy?

You may need a lumpectomy to treat breast cancer or remove a lump that’s causing discomfort or could lead to complications. Reasons for having a lumpectomy include:

• Early-stage breast cancer: The tumour is small, localised, and hasn’t spread.
• Benign breast lumps: Non-cancerous lumps can be removed to ease discomfort or prevent future problems.
• Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS): A non-invasive form of breast cancer that stays within the milk ducts.
• Personal preference: Many women prefer breast-conserving surgery over a mastectomy for aesthetic or emotional reasons.

After a lumpectomy, radiotherapy is often recommended to reduce the risk of cancer coming back in the treated breast.

What happens during a lumpectomy?

A lumpectomy is usually done under general anaesthesia and takes about 1-2 hours. Here’s what you can expect:

• Before surgery: Imaging tests like mammograms or ultrasounds may be used to pinpoint the tumour’s exact location. If the lump can’t be felt, a marker or wire may be placed in your breast to guide the surgeon.
• During surgery: Your surgeon will make a small incision, remove the lump or tumour along with a margin of healthy tissue, and close the incision with stitches. If needed, lymph nodes may also be removed to check if the cancer has spread.
• After surgery: The tissue is sent to a lab to ensure all abnormal cells have been removed and to analyse the tumour

Most women can go home the same day and start their recovery at home.

What is recovery like after a lumpectomy?

Recovery from a lumpectomy is usually quicker than from a mastectomy. Most women feel ready to return to their normal activities within 1-2 weeks. Here’s what to expect:

• Pain management: Mild pain or discomfort is common, but over-the-counter painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen can help.
• Wound care: Keep the incision clean and dry. Your doctor will give you specific instructions on caring for the wound and changing dressings.
• Activity restrictions: Avoid heavy lifting or intense physical activities for a couple of weeks to allow proper healing.

You might notice relief from the lump or symptoms soon after surgery. Swelling and bruising will gradually fade, and your breast shape will settle over time.al activities within a week or two, but it’s essential to listen to your body and take the time you need to recover fully.

What are the benefits of a lumpectomy?

Lumpectomy offers several advantages, including:

• Breast preservation: It allows you to keep most of your breast, offering a more natural look compared to a mastectomy.
• Effective treatment: For many women with early-stage breast cancer, lumpectomy followed by radiotherapy is as effective as a mastectomy.
• Quicker recovery: The recovery time is shorter than more invasive surgeries, helping you return to daily life sooner.

Are there any risks?

Like all surgeries, a lumpectomy carries some risks, but these are usually rare. Potential risks include:

• Infection: A small risk of infection at the incision site, treatable with antibiotics.
• Changes in breast shape: Removing tissue can sometimes cause slight changes in the appearance of your breast, but these are often minimal.
• Bleeding or bruising: Some bruising is normal after surgery and typically resolves on its own.
• Lymphedema: If lymph nodes are removed, you may experience swelling in your arm, though this is uncommon.

Your surgeon will explain these risks and how to minimise them during your consultation.

After the lumpectomy: What happens next?

After your lumpectomy, your surgeon will review the pathology results to determine whether any further treatment is necessary. If cancer cells are found in the tissue margins (the healthy tissue surrounding the tumour), additional surgery or treatments such as radiotherapy may be recommended.

For most women, radiotherapy is a standard follow-up treatment after a lumpectomy to target any remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence. Depending on the stage and type of cancer, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, or targeted therapy may also be recommended.

Why choose Birmingham Breast Clinic?

When you choose Birmingham Breast Clinic, you’ll receive expert care every step of the way. Here’s what makes us the right choice:

• Highly experienced surgeons: Our team specialises in breast-conserving surgeries like lumpectomy, ensuring you’re in safe hands.
• Personalised care: Your treatment plan will be tailored to your specific diagnosis and needs, giving you the best chance for a successful outcome.
• Comprehensive support: From diagnosis to recovery, we’re here to guide and support you through every stage of your journey.

We understand how important it is to feel confident in your care, and we’re committed to helping you achieve the best possible result

Contact us

If you have been diagnosed with breast cancer or need a lumpectomy, contact Birmingham Breast Clinic today to schedule a consultation. Our dedicated team is here to provide expert guidance and care throughout your treatment journey.