Vital Considerations When Undergoing Breast Surgery

By Marissa Velazquez


Most breast surgery is meant for preventing recurrence of cancer. The main aim is to remove the tumor so that it does not reappear in the breasts or even spread to other body parts. For those that are considering surgery for breasts, there are choices to be made depending on such factors as location of the tumor, its grade and also node status. There are three main procedures used for the surgical operation; lumpectomy, quadrantectomy and mastectomy.

Lumpectomy is the least invasive procedure and is normally classified as a partial mastectomy. This is because it involves removal of some portions of breasts. Given that it takes the least amount of tissue and leaves small scars, it tends to make minimal changes to breasts. It is also known as wide local excision. The main aim is to get rid of tumors and small amount of tissue. Thus the most important thing is location of the lump and small tissue margins surrounding it.

The hands are used to feel the lump. This is further enhanced through the use of information gotten from the mammogram or ultrasound report of the patient. When the lumps have been removed, there is placement of a radiation catheter device into the lumpectomy cavity. The catheter allows the radiologist to perform branch therapy that is a technique of radiation delivered within the breasts.

Quadrantectomy, also referred to as partial mastectomy, involves removal of slightly more tissues. During the procedure, the breasts are left intact, with one quarter of the affected breasts removed. The tumor is not taken on its own; 2 or 3 centimeters of tissues around them are also taken so that there is no chance of leaving the cancerous cells. Skin that is around is also gotten rid of.

There is removal of lymph nodes that may be close to the tumor, and then they are tested for cancer. A surgical drain helps to fasten healing. This procedure has the effect of changing not only the size but also shape of breasts. Padding around bras is used to improve appearance and shape of breasts. Plastic surgery can also be used to remodel breasts so that they attain the required shape. Plastic surgery is done prior to treatments like chemotherapy or radiation.

The oldest of these procedures is mastectomy in which the entire organ is removed. The muscles and skin in the surrounding are also removed. There are various degrees of the procedures. In a simple or total mastectomy, there usually is entire removal of all tissues and the skin, plus the areola and nipples. Lymph nodes and muscles also get tested.

In modified radical mastectomy, the nipple and areola are removed together with most of the skin, lymph nodes around the armpit and breast tissues. Muscles are left undisturbed. There is then radical mastectomy in which the nipple and areola are removed, plus tissues and skin. Lymph nodes are tested for cancer after being removed.

Finding a good surgeon will be an important step when looking to undergo breast surgery. Family members, friends or the family doctor can recommend the best professionals. The surgeon chosen should have requisite experience and a good reputation. Their listening skills should be superb as that will be important.




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