Breast-conserving Surgery (Lumpectomy)

What is a Lumpectomy?

A lumpectomy, also called breast-conserving surgery or wide local excision, is a surgical procedure used to remove breast cancer while preserving as much healthy breast tissue as possible. Unlike a mastectomy, which involves removing the entire breast, a lumpectomy focuses on excising only the tumour and a margin of surrounding tissue to ensure complete removal of cancer cells.

Lumpectomies are performed with advanced oncoplastic techniques that combine cancer removal with reshaping of the breast to maintain its natural appearance and achieve optimal cosmetic and oncological outcomes.

Who is a good candidate for a Lumpectomy?

You may be suitable for a lumpectomy if you:

• Have early-stage breast cancer or DCIS (ductal carcinoma in situ)

• Have enough healthy breast tissue to allow an acceptable breast size and shape 

• Prefer to preserve your breast rather than undergo a mastectomy

• Are willing to undergo postoperative radiotherapy (usually required after a lumpectomy)

Your suitability will be determined after a thorough clinical assessment, breast imaging, and discussion of your personal preferences and long-term treatment plan.

Benefits of a Lumpectomy

• Preserves the majority of your natural breast tissue

• Shorter recovery time compared to mastectomy

• Can achieve excellent cosmetic results with oncoplastic techniques

• Allows for immediate breast reshaping or reconstruction if needed

• Equivalent cancer survival rates to mastectomy for many early-stage breast cancers

How to prepare for a Lumpectomy

At your consultation:

• Ask about the advantages of Breast conservation Surgery

• Discussion of surgical options and reconstruction techniques

• Planning of incision placement for the best oncological and cosmetic results

• If you are large-breasted and considering a reduction mammoplasty, feel free to discuss it.

• If you are small-breasted and want to keep your breast size and shape, ask about volume replacement and flap reconstruction

Before surgery:

• Make sure you understand all aspects of surgery and its effect on your breast

• Stop smoking as advised to aid healing

• Follow instructions regarding medications, blood thinners, and supplements

• Maintain good physical health to optimise recovery

On the day of surgery:

• Follow fasting instructions

• Bring the surgical Bra to theatre

The Lumpectomy Procedure – Step by Step

• Performed under general anaesthesia

• A carefully planned incision is made over or near the tumour

• The tumour and a rim of healthy tissue are removed for clear margins

• Oncoplastic techniques will be used to reshape the breast and minimise deformity

• The incision is closed with fine sutures to optimise healing and appearance

Recovery after Lumpectomy

• Most patients go home the same day or the next morning

• Mild swelling, bruising, and discomfort are common but usually settle within days

• You’ll receive detailed post-operative care instructions

• Follow-up appointment to review healing and discuss pathology results

• Radiotherapy is usually recommended to reduce the risk of local recurrence

Risks and Complications of Lumpectomy

As with any surgery, risks may include:

• Bleeding, infection, or delayed wound healing

• Changes in breast shape or contour

• Scarring or firmness in the surgical area

• Fluid accumulation (seroma)

• Numbness or altered sensation in the breast or nipple

• Rarely, the need for re-excision if margins are not clear

A/Prof Meybodi has been at the forefront of developing new techniques to maintain optimal aesthetic outcomes while minimising the impact of breast cancer surgery. It is not uncommon for patients to experience an enhanced breast appearance following surgery, along with a rapid recovery. With advanced pain management strategies and tailored post-operative care, many patients are able to return to their normal activities within one to two weeks.