Breast Cancer Surgery Specialist

What is breast cancer surgery?

Breast cancer surgery can be an essential part of breast cancer treatment. Your surgeon makes an incision in your breast to remove cancerous tissue and prevent the disease from spreading throughout your body.

You might undergo breast cancer surgery with other cancer treatments, like radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, or hormone therapy.

Your doctor could recommend preemptive breast cancer surgery if you have a genetic disposition for developing breast cancer. Actress Angelina Jolie is a high-profile example of this type of preemptive breast cancer treatment.

What are the different types of breast cancer surgery?

The Lakeland Surgical Clinic, PLLC, surgical team offers several breast cancer surgeries, including:

• Removing the entire breast (mastectomy)
• Breast reconstruction surgery
• Surgery to remove nearby lymph nodes
• Removing a lump in the breast (lumpectomy)

The type of breast cancer surgery that’s right for you will depend on the stage of your cancer (how far along it is) and your preferences.

How should I prepare for my treatment?

Follow your surgeon’s pre-surgery instructions. They might ask you to stop taking certain medications, avoid foods and drinks the morning of surgery, and arrange for someone to drive you to and from the procedure.

What happens during breast cancer surgery?

Right before breast cancer surgery, the Lakeland Surgical Clinic, PLLC, team gives you anesthesia to put you in a sleeplike state. Your surgeon makes an incision to remove cancer and the tissue surrounding it. They will remove a lump or your entire breast, and in some cases, your lymph nodes, depending on the kind of cancer you have.

Your surgeon can also complete breast reconstruction surgery. They could begin the reconstruction process during your initial cancer operation or during a separate procedure.

After breast cancer surgery, your doctor closes the incisions with stitches. They often place drains in your skin to eliminate excess fluid before taking you to a recovery area.

What should I expect after my breast cancer surgery?

After breast cancer surgery, you might head home the same day or spend a night in the surgery center. Have a family member or friend drive you there. Get plenty of rest, take medications as directed by your surgeon, properly care for your wounds, and periodically empty your drains if you have them.

Avoid strenuous physical activity and wearing a bra until your surgeon says it’s OK. Attend follow-up appointments and undergo additional cancer treatments if needed.

If you require breast cancer surgery, choose the top-rated, board-certified surgeons at Lakeland Surgical Clinic, PLLC. Request a consultation by phone or book online today.