The Different Types of Breast Cancer Removal Surgery

1. Melaniebreastspecialist.com The Different Types of Breast Cancer Removal Surgery There are various types of surgery meant to cure breast cancer and the type you will need depends on the following: •The size of the cancer •The location of cancer in your breast •The size of your breasts •Your personal choice Surgery to remove only the area of cancer This type of breast cancer removal surgery is also known as a wide local excision. In this surgery the cancerous tissue and the border of healthy tissue is removed. The surgeon will try to leave behind as much healthy tissue as possible. This surgery is usually followed by radiation therapy. Surgery to remove the whole breast This type of surgery is known as mastectomy and it is usually opted for if cancer has spread to the whole breast. The surgeon will remove the entire breast tissue along with the skin and nipple and the tissues covering the chest muscles. In rare cases, even the chest wall is removed. This latter type of surgery is called radical mastectomy. After this type of breast cancer removal surgery, women usually prefer to opt for breast reconstruction surgery. Other women may choose to wear a prosthesis in the shape of a breast. In the following cases mastectomy is followed by radiation therapy: •If there are cancerous lymph nodes in the armpits •The margins are not defined clearly •If the cancer is advanced locally Breast cancer can be a very painful experience for any woman. Usually, breast cancer removal surgery is accompanied by chemotherapy which can be very difficult for the patient and their caregivers. This is the reason it is advisable to take the help of a specialist nurse or key worker who will support the patient throughout the diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up. You need not wait till the symptoms to show up to get a diagnosis done. In fact, every woman above the age of 40 should get regular check-ups to rule out the occurrence of breast cancer.