Surgical Options

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The majority of women with malignant breast disease, or breast cancer, will have some type of surgery as part of their treatment plan. There is an array of breast surgery options that may be performed for various reasons depending on the individual situation. The operation recommended to you by your doctor will be based on your medical history, your breast cancer features, and personal preference.

Board-Certified Surgeon

MICHELE LEY, MD, FACS

Dr. Ley, a breast surgical oncologist in Tucson since 2006, delivers compassionate and personalized care to create tailored treatment plans based on the latest research. Specializing in surgical care for breast cancer and high-risk patients, she employs minimally invasive techniques and practices oncoplastic surgery to optimize outcomes.

More About Dr. Ley

Surgery to Remove Malignant Breast Disease

There are two main forms of surgery to remove breast cancer, including breast-conserving surgery, also called lumpectomy and mastectomy.

Lumpectomy: Lumpectomy involves removing the cancer as well as some surrounding normal tissue. The amount of breast tissue removed will ultimately depend on the location and size of the tumor, as well as other factors.

Mastectomy: Mastectomy surgery involves removing the entire breast as well as some surrounding tissues. In the case where both breasts are removed, it is called a double mastectomy.

“The level of care is excellent.”

Dr. Ley is an excellence breast oncology surgeon, with incredible knowledge and genuine compassion. From the initial consultation to post-operative care, Dr. Ley’s meticulous approach and comprehensive understanding of breast oncology instilled confidence and eased my anxieties. The dedication to her patient’s well-being extends far beyond medical procedures; she fosters a supportive environment where empathy and personalized care is a priority.What sets Dr. Ley apart is her ability to treat not just the disease but the individual, providing unwavering support and guidance throughout the journey. Her warmth, coupled with a skilled surgical hand, empower patients with hope and resilience. Dr. Ley’s practice, marked by professionalism and kindness from every member of her team, ensures that patients receive not only top-notch medical care but also a nurturing environment conducive to healing. Dr. Ley is a beacon of hope and excellence in battling breast cancer.

Dr. Ley is extremely good at explaining your breast cancer, treatment options, and everything she is going to do. She is a masterful surgeon and uses plastic techniques to close incisions, leaving minimal scarring. In addition, she is warm, pleasant, and a lovely person. I am so happy that I found her based on a friend’s recommendation. I can’t say enough about her and the practice’s excellent care.

I have no words to express my gratitude for Dr. Ley! I was diagnosed Feb. 2020 and Dr. Ley besides being the best in her field and doing an amazing job on my double mastectomy she was even able to save my nipples. She is also a remarkable human being, patient, kind very clear in explaining everything and making you feel heard and safe in her hands. I 100% recommend her and her very helpful, kind and amazing team! If you have recently been diagnosed this is the team you want to have your back!

Surgery to Remove Lymph Nodes

To discover if breast cancer has spread to the underarm lymph nodes, either one or more will need to be removed and researched in the lab. Lymph nodes may be removed as either part of the procedure to remove breast cancer or as a separate procedure.

There are two main types of surgery to remove lymph nodes, include:

Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB): During this procedure, your surgeon will inject a special dye and remove the lymph nodes beneath the arm that have absorbed this dye. These lymph nodes are where the cancer is most likely to spread first.

Axillary lymph node dissection (ALND): During this procedure, your surgeon will remove many underarm lymph nodes. A special dye can be used to help protect lymphatic pathways.

Breast Reconstruction Surgery

Many patients choose to undergo breast reconstruction following surgery to remove breast cancer. There are several different types of breast reconstruction surgery to choose from.

 At Tucson Breast Health Specialists, Dr. Ley does not perform breast reconstruction procedures herself. However, we have compiled a list of recommended local plastic surgery resources to help you find the right breast reconstruction surgeon for you.  

Contact Us Today

We understand that being diagnosed with malignant Breast disease, or breast cancer, can be a trying time. At Tucson Breast Health Specialists, we are here to support you on your breast health journey. For more information regarding breast cancer surgical options, please contact our Tucson, AZ office today.

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