A surgical procedure used in the treatment of breast cancer, specifically for women undergoing breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy) to remove cancerous tissue while preserving the natural appearance of the breast as much as possible. 

This approach combines oncologic principles with plastic surgery techniques to achieve optimal cosmetic outcomes while ensuring complete cancer removal and maintaining adequate margins of healthy tissue.

Types of lumpectomy procedures

• Excisional biopsy
• Wide local excision
• Quadrantectomy
• Re-excision of margins

Who needs a lumpectomy?

You may be a lumpectomy person if:

• Cancer only affects one area of your breast.
• The tumour is relatively small compared to breast volume.
• You’ll likely have to enough remaining tissue to reshape breast after the tumor is removed.
• Health (and schedule) will allow to complete radiation therapy afterward.

How should I prepare for a Lumpectomy?

• Make sure to understand your treatment options.
• Make sure to understand instructions about medicine and fasting

Common Risk

• Infection at the incision site
• Collection of blood and clear fluid (seroma)
• Scarring from the radiation
• Bruising and swelling in arm or hand closest to breast (lymphedema).
• Shooting pain in arm, armpit, or chest (usually goes within a few weeks).
• Breast’s appearance changes with the tissue heal. 

If you're dissatisfied with the appearance of your breasts post-surgery, consulting a cosmetic surgeon may be beneficial.

Benefits

• Improved Cosmetic Outcome: Oncoplastic lumpectomy aims to preserve the shape and appearance of the breast, minimizing deformity and asymmetry.
• Reduced Need for Revision Surgery: By addressing cosmetic concerns during the initial surgery, patients may be less likely to require additional procedures to correct aesthetic issues later.
• Enhanced Patient Satisfaction: Maintaining the appearance of the breast can have a positive impact on a woman's self-esteem and body image following breast cancer treatment.

When to call Doctor?

If there is any:

• Redness, swelling
• Warm skin touch
• Purulent (thick and milky) drainage
• Fever, sweat and chills
• Fluid that builds up in or around breast
• Pain that gets worse after surgery

lumpectomy is a widely used surgical treatment for breast cancer. It preserves breast tissue and can be as effective as mastectomy, particularly when followed by radiation therapy. Patients should discuss with their healthcare providers to determine if lumpectomy is the best option for their specific situation.