Lumpectomy is a type of surgery common for female patients with breast cancer. Here, doctors cut out the cancerous area of tissue in the breast and some of the normal tissue present around it. In medical terms, this area is termed as ‘surgical margin’.
This surgical procedure aims to preserve the healthy breast region and sensations in this region. Studies show that between 1998 and 2011, the rate of this procedure for cancer management increased from 48.4% to 58.8%.
Common Candidates For Lumpectomy
You may be required to go through the process if you fall under any of the following conditions:
Cancer affects only one part of your breast
You can complete the radiation therapy
Tumor is relatively small
A surgeon is confident that there is enough remaining tissue to reshape the breast after the tumour is removed.
Preparation Guide For Lumpectomy
Female patients with breast cancer who are getting a lumpectomy should follow the given preparation steps first.
You should stop consuming blood-thinning medication like aspirin for at least one week or more before getting this surgical procedure.
Generally, it is recommended not to drink or eat anything 8-12 hours before this surgical procedure.
Checking with the insurance company about the cost of this procedure is essential beforehand.
Take someone with you for support during this procedure
How Is The Procedure Performed?
Before your surgery starts, you will have to change your clothes into a hospital gown. Then, a nurse will give you local anaesthesia and a sedative to operate smoothly. However, they may give you general anaesthesia to make the process painless.
As per your biopsy report, your surgeon will locate the tumour. During biopsies, doctors mark the cancer by placing a clip or metal market. So, a thin wire will be used to find it. This will help the doctor make an incision in the right place.
Next, the doctor will remove the entire tumour and some healthy cells to ensure that no part of the tumour is left behind. The lump is then transferred to the lab for analysis.
Also, during the process, the doctor can remove a part of the lymph node under your arm to check for cancer. Then, when everything is carried out successfully, the incision is closed with stitches and bandages.
Which People Should Not Get A Lumpectomy?
Certain breast cancer patients are not suited for this type of surgical procedure for cancer tissue removal. The factors here include:
Those suffering from Systemic lupus erythematosus
Those who have Scleroderma
I have already gone through radiation therapy
Have large tumour
Have a substantial cancerous area/tumour
More than one tumour is present.
Also, the lumpectomy process is not suitable for patients who cannot get radiation treatment due to a lack of resources or access.
Care After Lumpectomy
After completing lumpectomy surgery, the hospital staff will take you to the recovery room. Here, doctors check the pulse, blood pressure, and breathing. Some of the things you can expect are:
A sensation of numbness, pinching feeling, and pain under the arm
Dressing at the incision site
Pain medication prescription and some antibiotics
Avoiding physical activities
Written information about postoperative care
Follow-up visit 7-14 days following the surgery with your doctor
Recovery Steps To Follow At Home
The following are the at-home care steps after getting a lumpectomy surgery.
Medication: Breast cancer patients may feel pain or numbness in the surgery area. Here, doctors can suggest particular pain medications for pain management.
Rest: After the surgery, you may feel fatigued. It is essential to get proper rest.
Support Bra Or Sports Bra: After the surgery, you should ensure the breast area is well supported. This is important to lessen movement and reduce pain. So, wearing sports or support bras is appropriate for perfect comfort and support throughout the day. If you have bigger breasts, it is necessary to put a pillow beside the operated breast for support at night.
Sponge Baths: If the sutures, staples, and drains are still in place, it is best to take them instead of showers. Later, you should consult the doctor about when it is safe to shower.
Arm Exercises: Surgeons suggest particular exercises to practice, starting the morning after the procedure.
Sleep Position: It is best to have your head elevated and a pillow behind your back for support.
Conclusion
Following proper care steps is essential for an accurate recovery after a lumpectomy. Consult your doctor for further information and suggestions.
FAQs
What is a lumpectomy? A lumpectomy removes cancerous tissue from the breast, preserving as much of the breast as possible.
How should I care for my incision post-surgery? Keep the area clean, avoid heavy lifting, and follow your surgeon’s wound care instructions.
When can I resume normal activities after a lumpectomy? Most daily activities can be resumed within a week, but avoid strenuous exercise for 4-6 weeks.
Is follow-up treatment required after a lumpectomy? Radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or hormonal therapy might be recommended, depending on the case.
What are common side effects after a lumpectomy? Side effects may include swelling, soreness, scar tissue formation, and temporary changes in breast shape.
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