Why is this procedure done?
This is a surgery to remove some of your breast tissue. This is done to treat breast cancer and keep it from coming back in the same breast. ‚
What will the results be?
The surgery will remove the cancer and part of your breast around the cancer. The doctor may also take out some of the lymph nodes near your breast in your armpit. The doctor will work to keep your breast looking as close to how it did before your surgery. ‚
What happens before the procedure?
- Your doctor will take your history. Talk to your doctor about:
- All the drugs you are taking. Be sure to include all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, and herbal supplements. Tell the doctor about any drug allergy. Bring a list of drugs you take with you.
- Any bleeding problems. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking any drugs that may cause bleeding. Some of these are Coumadin, ibuprofen, Aleve (naproxen), or aspirin. Certain vitamins and herbs, such as garlic and fish oil, may also add to the risk for bleeding. You may need to stop these drugs as well. Talk to your doctor about them.
- When you need to stop eating or drinking before your procedure.
- Your doctor will do an exam and may order:
- Lab tests
- Mammogram
- X-rays or scans
- Breast ultrasound
- MRI
- Needle localization
- Be sure to follow your doctors orders.
- Take a shower or bath the night before your surgery. Wash your hair in case you are not able or do not feel like doing it after your surgery.
- Do not put on any lotion, cream, perfume, or deodorant.
- Only bring the things you will need during your hospital stay.
- You will not be allowed to drive right away after the procedure. Ask a family member or a friend to drive you home.
What happens during the procedure?
- The doctor makes a mark on your chest to show which breast and where the cuts will be made.
- Once you are in the operating room, the staff will put an IV in your arm to give you fluids and drugs. You will be given a drug to make you sleepy. It will also help you stay pain free during the surgery.
- Your doctor makes a cut in your breast to take out the tumor and a small area of breast tissue around the tumor. The doctor may also take out tissue called lymph nodes under the arm and around the breast.
- Your doctor may need to put in a drain tube to get rid of extra fluid and blood after surgery.
- The tissue will be sent to the lab to be tested for cancer. Your doctor will close your cut or cuts with stitches or staples and cover with clean bandages.
- This procedure takes 1 to 2 hours.
What happens after the procedure?
- You will go to the Recovery Room and the staff will watch you closely.
- You may be able to go home the same day or you may stay at the hospital for a few days based on how much surgery you had done.
What lifestyle changes are needed?
You may not need any lifestyle changes, depending on your age. Talk to your doctor about hormone therapy. ‚
What drugs may be needed?
The doctor may order drugs to: ‚
- Help with pain
- Prevent or fight an infection
- Kill cancer cells
- Block hormone receptors
What problems could happen?
- Infection
- Fluid buildup in your arm or hand if lymph nodes were removed
- You may feel sad or depressed about the change of your body
Where can I learn more?
American Cancer Society ‚
http://www.cancer.org/cancer/breastcancer/detailedguide/breast-cancer-treating-surgery ‚
National Cancer Institute ‚
http://www.cancer.gov/types/breast/surgery-choices/surgerychoices.pdf ‚
Last Reviewed Date
2015-11-23 ‚
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Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care provider 's advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2016 Wolters Kluwer Clinical Drug Information, Inc. and its affiliates and/or licensors. All rights reserved. ‚