If you’ve been diagnosed with breast cancer or have a suspicious lump, your doctor may recommend a lumpectomy. This breast-conserving surgery, also known as a partial mastectomy, is a common and effective treatment for early-stage breast cancer. At Tucson Breast Health, Dr. Michele Ley specializes in this procedure, offering patients a path to recovery while preserving as much breast tissue as possible.
What is a Lumpectomy?
A lumpectomy is a surgical procedure that removes the cancerous or suspicious tissue from the breast, along with a small margin of healthy tissue surrounding it. Unlike a full mastectomy, which removes the entire breast, a lumpectomy aims to preserve the breast’s natural shape and appearance while helping to eliminate the source of the cancer. It is often used in tandem with other treatments, such as radiation, to reduce chances of the cancer recurring locally.
How to Know if You Need a Lumpectomy (partial mastectomy)
Your doctor may recommend a lumpectomy if:
- You have early-stage breast cancer
- The tumor is small relative to your breast size
- You prefer to keep as much of your natural breast as possible
- You’re able to undergo radiation therapy after surgery
It’s important to discuss your options with a breast cancer specialist like Dr. Michelle Ley to determine if a lumpectomy is the right choice for you. Your consultation will cover the severity of the cancer and what treatments will offer you your best chance.
What to Expect During a Lumpectomy Procedure
Understanding the procedure can help ease any anxiety you may have. When undergoing a lumpectomy, there are a few steps that everyone will experience. The entire procedure typically takes 1-2 hours, depending on the complexity of your case.
Anesthesia
You’ll be given general anesthesia to ensure you’re comfortable throughout the procedure. An anesthesiologist will carefully monitor you while undergoing the procedure and adjust anesthesia as needed for maximum efficacy.
Removal Process
Dr. Ley will make a small incision over the tumor site. The cancerous tissue and a small margin of healthy tissue will then be carefully removed. This is to ensure all potentially impacted cells are removed as much as possible. We are not able to know with certainty in the operating room that negative margins have been achieved. Once the pathology is complete, your surgeon will review it with you at the post-operative appointment and discuss next steps.
Lymph Node Examination
In some cases, nearby lymph nodes may be removed to check for cancer spread. Your surgeon sends the node to pathology. This is called a sentinel lymph node biopsy. When the pathology is complete, at your post-operative appointment, your surgeon will explain if any additional steps were necessary.
What You Should Know About Lumpectomy Recovery
Recovery from a lumpectomy is generally quicker than from a mastectomy, as it is a less invasive procedure. Most patients go home the same day. However, as with all surgical procedures, you will still be groggy upon waking and may feel some tenderness or soreness in the surgical area.
Your full recovery typically will take between 2-3weeks. Do note that you’ll need to avoid strenuous activities for a few weeks, such as lifting certain amounts of weight or exercising too vigorously. You will receive a detailed list of things to avoid during your recovery and for how long, and may also receive customized instructions depending on your typical lifestyle or hobbies. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your healing and ensure everything is going smoothly.
Why Choose Dr. Ley for Your Lumpectomy
Choosing the right surgeon for your lumpectomy is crucial. Dr. Michelle Ley at Tucson Breast Health offers extensive experience in breast cancer surgery and comprehensive surgical procedures tailored to your needs with state-of-the-art surgical techniques. She believes in a patient-centered approach to care and a commitment to preserving breast aesthetics when possible. Dr. Ley’s philosophy centers on providing personalized, compassionate care to each patient, ensuring you feel supported throughout your breast cancer journey.
Preventative Measures and Follow-Up Care
After your lumpectomy, ongoing care is essential. This will vary depending on your particular case, but may include any of the additional measures to prolong your health.
- Radiation therapy to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence
- Medications to reduce the risk of cancer spread
- Regular follow-up appointments and mammograms
- Lifestyle changes to promote overall health and reduce cancer risk
Dr. Ley and her team will work with you to develop a comprehensive follow-up plan tailored to your specific needs. If you have a history of breast cancer in your family, that will be taken into consideration when constructing your health plan.
Take the Next Step in Your Breast Health Journey
If you’re considering a lumpectomy or have questions about breast cancer treatment options, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Tucson Breast Health Specialists. Dr. Ley and her expert team are here to guide you through every step of the process, from initial consultation to post-operative care.
Ready to take control of your breast health? Contact Tucson Breast Health today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Michelle Ley. Let us provide you with the expert care and support you deserve on your journey to recovery.
Michele Ley, MD, FACS
Dr. Michele Ley, a breast surgical oncologist in Tucson since 2006, combines compassionate care with cutting-edge techniques to provide personalized treatment plans for breast cancer and high-risk patients. With a medical degree from St. Louis University, residency at the University of Arizona, and fellowship at UC San Francisco, Dr. Ley is board-certified in General Surgery and a member of the American Society of Breast Surgeons. Her experience as a medical director for breast programs and her own journey as a breast cancer survivor at age 44 uniquely position her to offer empathetic and expert care to her patients.
