Breast cancer surgery ranges from breast conserving surgery to mastectomy, with reconstruction options available for many patients. The right approach depends on the size, type and location of the cancer, and your own priorities matter in that decision.
Signs Worth Getting Checked
Should You Be Worried?
Not every breast cancer diagnosis requires a mastectomy. Many patients are candidates for breast conserving surgery, and even where a mastectomy is needed, reconstruction and oncoplastic techniques can support a good cosmetic outcome. This is a conversation to have before assuming the most extensive option is the only one.
What Raises Your Risk
Risk increases with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, inherited mutations such as BRCA1 or BRCA2, increasing age, and hormonal or reproductive factors. Many patients diagnosed have no single identifiable risk factor.
How It's Diagnosed
Imaging (mammogram, ultrasound or MRI) to characterise the lump or abnormality.
Biopsy to confirm the diagnosis, type and grade of cancer.
Staging to check whether nearby lymph nodes are involved.
How It's Treated
- Breast conserving surgery (lumpectomy): removal of the tumour while preserving the rest of the breast, usually followed by radiation.
- Mastectomy: removal of the entire breast, recommended when conserving surgery is not suitable.
- Robotic Mastectomy: A minimally invasive, scar reducing approach for suitable cases. Learn More
- Oncoplastic Breast Surgery: Breast conserving surgery combined with reconstructive technique for a better cosmetic outcome. Learn More
- Sentinel lymph node biopsy or axillary dissection to check whether cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not necessarily. Many patients are candidates for breast conserving surgery. The right option depends on the size, type and location of your specific cancer.
A lumpectomy removes only the tumour and some surrounding tissue, while a mastectomy removes the entire breast. Both are followed by a personalised plan for any additional treatment needed.
In many cases yes, and this is discussed as part of your surgical planning rather than treated as a separate later decision.
This depends on your specific case, but timelines are discussed clearly so you understand what to expect at each step.
Yes, and outside reports or imaging can be reviewed as part of that consultation.
Book Your Breast Cancer Surgery Consultation in Pune
A breast cancer diagnosis deserves a clear conversation about every option available to you. Dr Vidita Powle Danait provides expert breast cancer surgery in Pune.