What is Breast Cancer?
Breast
cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide. It develops when
abnormal cells in the breast grow uncontrollably and form a tumor. Although
much less common, breast cancer can also occur in men.
Early
detection through regular screening and timely diagnosis significantly improves
treatment success and long-term survival.
When is Breast Cancer Surgery Recommended?
Surgery
may be recommended for patients with:
•
Early-stage breast cancer.
•
Selected locally advanced breast cancers following chemotherapy or hormone
therapy.
•
Localized breast tumors that can be surgically removed.
•
Certain cases of recurrent breast cancer.
Treatment
planning is carried out by a multidisciplinary team that may include breast
surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, and
pathologists.
Types of Breast Cancer Surgery
Common
surgical procedures include:
• Breast-Conserving
Surgery (Lumpectomy) – removal of the tumor with a margin of
healthy tissue while preserving most of the breast.
• Mastectomy
– removal of the entire breast when medically indicated.
• Sentinel
Lymph Node Biopsy – evaluation of the first lymph nodes that
drain the breast to determine whether cancer has spread.
• Axillary
Lymph Node Dissection – removal of additional lymph nodes in
selected patients.
The most
appropriate surgical option is determined according to the characteristics of
the tumor and the individual treatment plan.
Signs and Symptoms
Symptoms
may include:
• A lump
in the breast or underarm.
•
Changes in the size or shape of the breast.
• Skin
dimpling, thickening, or puckering.
• Nipple
discharge, particularly if bloody.
•
Inversion of the nipple.
•
Redness or swelling of the breast.
Many
patients experience no symptoms during the early stages, highlighting the
importance of routine breast screening and mammography.
How is Breast Cancer Diagnosed?
Diagnosis
may include:
•
Clinical breast examination.
•
Mammography.
• Breast
ultrasound.
• Breast
MRI in selected patients.
• Core
needle biopsy or other biopsy techniques to confirm the diagnosis.
•
Additional imaging studies for cancer staging when necessary.
How is Breast Cancer Surgery Performed?
Breast
cancer surgery is performed under general anesthesia.
Depending
on the diagnosis, the surgeon removes either the tumor alone or the entire
breast. Lymph nodes may also be evaluated or removed when clinically indicated.
The
surgical team aims to completely remove the cancer while preserving healthy
tissue whenever possible and achieving the best functional and cosmetic
outcome.
Breast Reconstruction After Surgery
Breast reconstruction may be
performed immediately during the same operation or at a later stage.
Reconstruction
may involve breast implants or the patient's own tissue, depending on medical
considerations and personal preferences.
Reconstructive
surgery can help restore body image, improve self-confidence, and support
emotional recovery following breast cancer treatment.
Recovery After Surgery
Recovery
depends on the type of surgery and any additional treatments.
Patients
are generally advised to:
• Care
for the surgical incision.
•
Perform recommended arm and shoulder exercises.
• Avoid
heavy lifting for several weeks.
• Attend
regular follow-up appointments.
•
Discuss the need for chemotherapy, radiotherapy, hormone therapy, or targeted
therapy if recommended.
Most
patients gradually return to normal daily activities within several weeks.
Why is Early Treatment Important?
Early
diagnosis allows breast cancer to be treated at a more curable stage, increases
the possibility of breast-conserving surgery, reduces the need for more
extensive treatment, and significantly improves survival rates.
A Message to Patients
If you
notice a breast lump, changes in the breast or nipple, unusual nipple
discharge, or any persistent breast symptoms, do not delay seeking medical
evaluation. Early diagnosis and treatment by an experienced multidisciplinary
breast cancer team provide the best opportunity for successful treatment and
long-term recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does every breast cancer require a mastectomy?
No. Many
patients are suitable candidates for breast-conserving surgery, depending on
the size, location, and stage of the tumor.
Can the breast be reconstructed after surgery?
Yes.
Breast reconstruction can often be performed immediately after mastectomy or at
a later stage using implants or the patient's own tissue.
Are lymph nodes removed in every patient?
Not
always. Many patients only require a sentinel lymph node biopsy, while axillary
lymph node dissection is reserved for selected cases.
How long does recovery take?
Recovery
varies according to the type of surgery. Most patients gradually return to
normal activities within 2–6 weeks, although additional
cancer treatments may influence the overall recovery period.