When your doctor tells you that you have breast cancer, and then you hear the words 'you need surgery,' it's normal to feel a great deal of fear and shock. But don't worry. This is not something you have to face alone. Let's talk about breast cancer surgery in a simple and clear way. Then you will have great strength to go on this journey.
What is this breast cancer surgery?
Simply put, surgery is the most important and effective way to remove cancer cells from your body. If you have breast cancer, your doctor will almost certainly recommend surgery. Sometimes this surgery may be done before other treatments, and sometimes after other treatments.
But keep in mind that if the cancer has spread to distant parts of the body, such as the liver , lungs , or brain (metastatic breast cancer ), surgery may not be as effective a treatment.
Although this surgery is mainly performed as a treatment, it is sometimes used for diagnostic purposes and for cosmetic reasons, such as breast reconstruction. For example, there are surgeries to see if cancer has spread. There are also surgeries to restore the breast after cancer has been removed.
What are the main types of breast cancer surgery?
There are several types of surgery for breast cancer. Your doctor will decide which surgery is best for you based on your condition. Let's understand each of these types clearly.
| Type of surgery | Simply put... |
|---|---|
| Removal of the tumor only (Lumpectomy) | This involves removing the entire breast, but only the cancerous lump and a small amount of healthy tissue around it. This is usually done in the early stages of cancer. |
| Complete removal of the breast (Mastectomy) | This surgery involves removing one or both breasts completely. In some cases, other tissue, such as nearby chest muscle, may also need to be removed. |
| Sentinel node biopsy | To see if the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes in the armpit, one or more lymph nodes are removed from the armpit and sent to the laboratory. These are what we usually call "stomach swabs." |
| Armpit lymphadenectomy | To determine if the cancer has spread to multiple nodes, a larger number of nodes in the armpit are removed and examined. |
| Breast reconstruction | A surgery to restore the shape of the breast after cancer has been removed. This can use breast implants or tissue taken from another part of your own body. |
The type of surgery recommended for you depends on many factors, including the type of cancer you have, how far it has spread (stage), your overall health, and your personal preferences. For some people, surgery alone may be enough. For others, surgery is just one part of the treatment plan.
How soon does this surgery need to be done?
Cancer treatment is always an emergency. The sooner treatment begins, the better the chance of stopping the cancer from spreading .
According to statistics, if the cancer is diagnosed and surgery is performed within 8 weeks , the success rate is higher. However, there are some cases where other treatments (for example, `Chemotherapy`) are given before surgery.
At what stage of cancer is surgery necessary?
Except for the final stage (Stage V or metastatic breast cancer), where the cancer has spread throughout the body, surgery is the main treatment for all other stages.
Imagine, if the cancer has spread beyond the breast and armpit area to distant sites like the liver, lungs, and brain, it needs to be given a treatment that works throughout the body. That means treatments like `Chemotherapy` or ` Radiation therapy`. Simply put, if the cancer is in one place, it can be cut out and removed, but if it has spread throughout the body, it needs to be given a drug that works throughout the body.
Is this a major surgery or a minor one?
It varies depending on the type of surgery being performed. For example, a lumpectomy (removing only the lump) and a sentinel node biopsy (examining a lump) are relatively minor surgeries. However, if both are done at the same time, the surgery and recovery time may be slightly longer.
Mastectomy (complete removal of the breast) and breast reconstruction (breast reconstruction) are major surgeries. They take longer and have a slightly higher risk of complications.
What happens before and during the surgery?
Before the surgery...
Once you have been diagnosed with cancer, your doctor will talk to you about your surgical options. Your treatment plan and when to have surgery will depend on your health and the stage of your cancer. In early-stage cancer, surgery is usually the first step. You can also discuss whether you need breast reconstruction surgery and when it will be done.
During the surgery...
The surgeon will try to remove all the tissue that may contain cancer cells. This may involve removing part of your breast, your entire breast, or both breasts. He or she may also remove some or all of the armpit tissue. If you have decided to have breast reconstruction, that may be done at the same time.
Possible risks and side effects of surgery
As with any surgery, there are some risks and side effects that can occur. Don't be afraid, it's important to be aware of these.
| Risk/side effect | Description and what you need to know |
|---|---|
| Risks common to any surgery | |
| Wound infection | Tell your doctor if you have any symptoms such as redness, warmth, or fever at the wound site. |
| Blood clots | If you experience painful swelling of a leg, chest pain, or difficulty breathing, seek medical advice immediately. |
| Fluid accumulation (Seroma) | Fluid accumulation at the surgical site. This usually heals on its own. If there is discomfort, the fluid can be removed with a needle. |
| Side effects specific to breast surgery | |
| Numbness and tingling | Nerve damage during surgery may cause tingling in the chest, armpits, or arms. This will resolve in a few weeks. |
| Shoulder stiffness | It is normal to experience stiffness and difficulty moving your shoulder and arm after surgery. It is very important to do the exercises exactly as your doctor prescribes. |
| Cording in the armpits | Some people who have had their armpit hair removed may experience this condition. It feels like a tight string running from the armpit down the arm. This can be relieved by massaging. |
| Swelling of the arm (Lymphedema) | A blockage in the lymphatic system can cause swelling in the hand or arm. Although this cannot be completely cured, it can be controlled with treatment. |
How long does it take to heal?
You may experience pain and limited movement in your chest and arms for a few weeks after surgery. Your doctor will give you painkillers and exercises to do daily for your arms and shoulders. These exercises are essential to prevent stiffness in your shoulders. You may feel tired for a while. It may take a few weeks for your strength to return to normal. Most people can return to their normal activities after about a month.
When should I see the doctor again?
Your medical team will schedule a follow-up appointment with you a week or two after your surgery. During this appointment, they will review your condition, explain the test results, and plan your next course of treatment.
However, if you have signs of complications such as excessive swelling, fever, or armpit stiffness, don't wait until that day. Call your doctor immediately for advice.
In breast cancer, surgery is a very important part of the treatment journey. Whether it's to remove a tumor, to see if cancer cells remain, or to reconstruct the breast, you and your surgeon will go through this journey together. Talk openly with them about any questions or concerns you may have.
Take-Home Message
- Breast cancer surgery is the main and most successful treatment for removing cancer cells.
- There are several types of surgery. Your doctor will determine the best type for you based on the type and stage of your cancer.
- Be aware of possible side effects after surgery. Especially, do the shoulder exercises your doctor gives you exactly.
- If you notice any warning signs after surgery, such as fever, excessive swelling, or severe pain, seek medical advice immediately.
- Talk openly with your doctor about any questions or concerns you may have. You are not alone in this journey.
💬 Comments (0)
No comments have been posted yet. Add your comment here for the first time.
Add your comment