Breast Cancer Surgery

Breast cancer surgery is a primary treatment used to remove cancerous tissue from the breast. Depending on the tumor’s size, location and stage, surgery may involve removing only the tumor (lumpectomy) or the entire breast (mastectomy).

Surgery is often combined with other therapies, such as radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy or targeted therapy, to improve outcomes. Advances in surgical techniques now allow many patients to preserve the appearance of the breast or pursue reconstruction as part of a personalized treatment plan.

Why is Surgery Performed for Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer surgery is performed to remove cancerous tissue, determine whether cancer has spread and, in some cases, relieve symptoms. It is often the first step in a comprehensive breast cancer treatment plan.

In addition to eliminating as much of the tumor as possible, surgery may help assess lymph node involvement and guide decisions about additional therapies. After surgery, some patients may consider breast reconstruction to restore the size and shape of the breast.

At Moffitt, we see some of the toughest cancers in the state. Having plastic surgery expertise like we have here really allows us to do resections that we otherwise couldn’t do.

John Kiluk, MD

Who is a Good Candidate for Breast Cancer Surgery?

A good candidate for breast cancer surgery typically has cancer that is confined to the breast and possibly nearby lymph nodes but has not spread to distant organs.

Other factors considered include:

• Tumor size and location
• Breast size relative to the tumor
• Cancer stage and subtype
• Overall health and ability to tolerate anesthesia
• Personal treatment preferences

A physician will evaluate imaging results, biopsy findings and the patient’s overall health to determine the most appropriate surgical approach.

How to Prepare for Breast Cancer Surgery

Preparation for breast cancer surgery includes preoperative evaluations and coordination with the surgical team.

Patients may be asked to:

• Complete imaging tests and blood work
• Review medications and temporarily stop certain drugs or supplements
• Follow fasting instructions before anesthesia
• Arrange transportation and home support during recovery

The surgical team will explain the procedure, anesthesia plan and postoperative expectations in advance.

What are the Types of Breast Cancer Surgery?

The type of breast cancer surgery recommended depends on the size and stage of the tumor, whether the cancer has spread, and the patient’s treatment goals. The most common surgical approaches include:

Lumpectomy

A lumpectomy removes the tumor along with a small margin of surrounding healthy tissue while preserving most of the breast. It is typically recommended for early-stage breast cancer when the tumor can be removed without significantly altering breast shape.

Lumpectomy is usually followed by radiation therapy to reduce the risk of recurrence.

Oncoplastic surgery may be performed at the same time to reshape the breast and optimize cosmetic outcomes.

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Mastectomy

A mastectomy involves removing all breast tissue. Several types of mastectomy may be performed depending on the clinical situation, including:

• Total (simple) mastectomy – Removes all breast tissue, including the nipple and areola.
• Modified radical mastectomy – Removes all breast tissue and most axillary lymph nodes.
• Skin-sparing mastectomy – Removes breast tissue and the nipple while preserving most of the breast skin.
• Nipple-sparing mastectomy – Preserves the nipple, areola and breast skin while removing underlying breast tissue.

A mastectomy may be:

• Unilateral (single) – One breast removed
• Bilateral (double) – Both breasts removed

Bilateral mastectomy may be considered for patients with cancer in both breasts or for individuals at high genetic risk, such as those with BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations.

Breast reconstruction may be performed immediately during mastectomy or delayed until a later time.

Sentinel Node Mapping and Biopsy

Sentinel lymph node biopsy helps determine whether cancer has spread beyond the breast.

During this procedure, the surgeon injects a dye or weak radioactive tracer near the tumor to identify the first lymph node(s) that drain the breast. These sentinel nodes are removed and examined for cancer cells.

 If cancer is detected in the sentinel node(s), additional lymph node removal (axillary node dissection) may be recommended.

What are the Risks and Possible Complications of Breast Cancer Surgery

Breast cancer surgery is generally safe, but like all surgical procedures, it carries some risks.

Potential complications may include:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Reaction to anesthesia
• Swelling or bruising
• Seroma (fluid accumulation)
• Changes in breast or arm sensation

If lymph nodes are removed, there is also a risk of lymphedema (arm swelling).

With expert surgical care and attentive postoperative management, most patients recover without significant complications.

When diagnosed with breast cancer, Janelle found herself intimidated, but her niece Isabella gave her courage and inspired her to persevere and make a difference.

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What to Expect During Breast Cancer Surgery Recovery

Recovery varies based on the type of surgery performed.

Most patients:

• Stay in the hospital for one or two days (for mastectomy)
• Experience temporary discomfort, swelling or bruising
• Receive instructions for incision and drain care
• Perform gentle arm exercises to prevent stiffness

Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor healing and review pathology results. Many patients return to light daily activities within a few weeks, though full recovery may take several months.

How Effective is Surgery for Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer surgery is highly effective for treating localized breast cancer. When the tumor is detected early and confined to the breast, surgery can achieve excellent local disease control.

Long-term outcomes depend on tumor biology, stage at diagnosis and whether additional treatments are used. Combining surgery with radiation therapy, systemic therapy and personalized treatment planning has significantly improved survival and long-term outcomes.

Breast Cancer Surgery FAQs

Breast cancer surgery is a major step in treatment, and patients often have questions about recovery, long-term effects and next steps.

• Will I need additional treatment after breast cancer surgery?

  Some patients require additional treatment after breast cancer surgery to reduce the risk of recurrence.

  This may include radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy or targeted therapy, depending on tumor characteristics, lymph node involvement and overall stage. After reviewing the pathology results, the healthcare team will recommend a personalized treatment plan.

• How do surgeons determine whether breast-conserving surgery is an option?

  Eligibility for breast-conserving surgery depends on tumor size, location and the ability to achieve clear margins.

  Surgeons also consider breast size relative to the tumor, cancer subtype and imaging findings. The goal is to remove the cancer completely while preserving as much healthy breast tissue as possible and maintaining cosmetic outcomes.

• Can breast cancer surgery affect arm or shoulder movement?

  Breast cancer surgery can temporarily affect arm or shoulder movement, especially if lymph nodes are removed.

  Patients may experience stiffness, weakness or reduced range of motion on the side of the surgery. Gentle stretching exercises and, when needed, physical therapy can help restore mobility and prevent long-term limitations.

• What is lymphedema, and am I at risk after breast cancer surgery?

  Lymphedema is swelling caused by a buildup of lymph fluid after lymph nodes are removed or damaged.

  It most commonly affects the arm on the side of surgery and may develop gradually. The risk is higher when multiple lymph nodes are removed. Early recognition and management, including compression garments, specialized exercises and physical therapy, can help control symptoms.

• How noticeable will the surgical scar be?

  Scarring after breast cancer surgery varies depending on the procedure and individual healing patterns.

  Surgeons aim to place incisions as discreetly as possible when clinically appropriate. Over time, scars typically fade and become less noticeable. The care team may recommend strategies to support optimal scar healing.

• Will I experience changes in breast sensation after surgery?

  Changes in breast or chest sensation are common after breast cancer surgery.

  Patients may notice numbness, tingling or altered sensitivity, particularly after mastectomy. Sensation may gradually improve as nerves heal, although some changes can be long-lasting.

• How soon can I return to work or daily activities?

  Return to normal activities depends on the type of surgery performed and the individual’s overall health.

  Many patients resume light daily activities within a few days, while more strenuous activity and work may require several weeks of recovery. The surgical team will provide personalized guidance based on healing progress.

• Is breast reconstruction required after mastectomy?

  Breast reconstruction is optional and based entirely on personal preference.

  Some individuals choose immediate reconstruction performed during mastectomy, while others delay reconstruction or decide not to pursue it. A plastic surgeon can review available options and expected outcomes.

• How will breast cancer surgery affect future screening or imaging?

  Follow-up imaging remains an important part of care after breast cancer surgery.

  Patients who undergo lumpectomy typically continue routine mammograms, sometimes supplemented by ultrasound or MRI. Imaging recommendations after mastectomy depend on reconstruction status and ongoing risk factors.

Benefit from World-Class Breast Cancer Care at Moffitt Cancer Center

The board-certified, fellowship-trained breast surgeons in Moffitt’s Don & Erika Wallace Comprehensive Breast Program are dedicated to helping our patients fight breast cancer by performing innovative surgical techniques and state-of-the-art procedures. Moffitt has earned an outstanding reputation as a leader in complex breast cancer surgery, and our team has extensive experience and highly refined expertise. We are also continually evaluating promising new treatment options through our robust portfolio of clinical trials.

If you would like to learn more about breast cancer surgery, you can request an appointment with a specialist at Moffitt by calling 1-888-663-3488 or submitting a new patient registration form online. We do not require referrals.

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