Lumpectomy In Knoxville

What is a Lumpectomy?

A lumpectomy is a breast-conserving surgery to remove cancer from the breast. Unlike a mastectomy, a lumpectomy only removes the tumor and a small amount of tissue around the tumor. This procedure is typically used to treat early-stage breast cancer.

Undergoing a Lumpectomy

The lumpectomy is a generally quick procedure lasting between 15 and 45 minutes. Lumpectomies can be done under local anesthesia if you are not having lymph nodes removed, however, if the lymph nodes will also be removed, general anesthesia will be needed. During the procedure, the surgeon may also create a small incision, and remove some of the lymph nodes to determine if cancer has spread to the lymphatic system. When the lumpectomy is completed, the surgeon will close the incision using sutures and will then be covered with a surgical dressing.

After the Surgery

Many people go home after their lumpectomy procedure. The removed tissue will be tested to confirm the diagnosis and to determine if any additional treatment will be needed. Some patients may need chemotherapy, radiation therapy, another endocrine therapy, or a combination of therapies depending on the stage of the cancer. Once you go home, your physician may prescribe you pain medication as well as give you advice on how to care for your bandages. It is recommended that you wear a comfortable bra to help minimize swelling and discomfort.

What are the Benefits of a Lumpectomy?

Although research has shown that lumpectomy and mastectomy have the same survival rate, lumpectomy offers a few extra benefits. A lumpectomy is often referred to as “breast-conserving” surgery because a minimal amount of tissue is removed, preserving the breast. Another benefit to a lumpectomy is it is typically an outpatient procedure, so you will likely be able to return home the same day.

Who is not a Candidate for a Lumpectomy?

Unfortunately, not everyone is a candidate for lumpectomy. Patients with the following are advised to seek other treatment options:

  • Patients with large tumors
  • Multiple Tumors in the Breast
  • Patients with cancer throughout the breast
  • Pre-existing conditions such as scleroderma, lupus, or chronic inflammatory disease

What are the Risks of a Lumpectomy?

The main risk of a lumpectomy is you will still have a higher risk of recurrent cancer and if the cancer returns, you will need to have more surgery. If you are having radiation therapy along with your lumpectomy, additional risks and side effects include:

  • Fatigue
  • Breast pain
  • Damage to surrounding tissue
  • Skin reactions (redness, itching or soreness)

Schedule a Lumpectomy Consultation

For more information about lumpectomies and other forms of surgical treatment for breast cancer, schedule an appointment with one of our experienced Premier Surgical Breast Team Surgeons today.