Breast Cancer Surgery: Enhancing Life Quality

     Breast cancer surgery (mastectomy) is one treatment option for patients in the early stages of breast cancer. Surgical options include a total mastectomy, where the entire breast is removed, and a partial mastectomy, which preserves most of the breast.

Mastectomy and Radiation Therapy

     Survival rates for early-stage breast cancer patients undergoing total mastectomy are comparable to those who undergo partial mastectomy combined with radiation therapy. However, both methods have distinct advantages and disadvantages.

Considering surgical options

The choice of surgical method depends on individual patient factors, which are considered by the physician, such as:

• The size and characteristics of the tumor.
• Presence of abnormal calcifications.
• Contraindications or limitations for radiation therapy.
• Breast size.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Each Technique

1.  Total or Simple Mastectomy

     This involves removing all breast tissue, including the nipple and areola. This method requires a wider incision to ensure complete removal of the breast tissue.

Advantages

• Low risk of local recurrence.
• Radiation therapy may not be required if the tumor is less than 5 cm and has not spread to nearby tissues or lymph nodes.

Disadvantages

• Loss of the breast on the operated side.
• Longer hospital stay.

2.  Breast-Conserving Surgery (BCS)

     This involves removing the cancerous tumor and some surrounding breast tissue while preserving the natural shape of the breast. When combined with radiation therapy, recurrence rates are similar to total mastectomy.

Advantages

• Smaller incision with faster recovery.
• Maintains the appearance of the breast.
   

Remark 

• Radiation therapy is necessary after surgery.

3.  Breast Reconstruction Surgery

     This is performed after a total mastectomy to rebuild the breast. It is a safe option in terms of treatment and follow-up, with no increased risk of recurrence. Reconstruction can improve quality of life and appearance. There are two methods:

1) Using the patient’s tissue

     Tissue or muscle is transferred from areas like the abdomen or back. However, this procedure may reduce strength in the donor area or compromised muscle function.

2. Using implants or silicone prostheses

• Advantages low recurrence risk, restores the breast’s natural appearance.
• Disadvantages Higher cost, Longer surgical time, Additional surgical scars if using the patient’s tissue, Risk of complications, such as infections or scar tissue formation around implants.

Lymph Node Surgery

     In some cases, patients may require lymph node surgery to accurately stage breast cancer. This is particularly important for invasive ductal carcinoma or ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) treated with total mastectomy. Lymph node surgery includes sentinel lymph node biopsy or axillary lymph node dissection.

Summary

     Breast cancer surgery offers various options, each with unique benefits and drawbacks. Consulting with a specialized breast surgeon is essential to determine the most suitable treatment method tailored to your individual needs.

For more information please contact:
 Breast Cancer Center, RAM2 Hospital
Email: information@ram2-hosp.com
Line Official: @ram2
Tel: 02-032-3888

Article by

Recommend Package

Breast cancer screening (Mammogram with Breast Ultrasound) Package

  Order Package  

Breast cancer susceptibility gene (BRCA) Package

  Order Package