Lumpectomy

Lumpectomy, or breast conservation surgery, includes removal of the cancerous lump plus a rim of normal tissue to insure that all cancer cells are removed. The procedure is performed as outpatient surgery. 

Once the breast heals almost all patients will be treated with radiation.  It has been well documented that the combination of lumpectomy and radiation therapy offers the same prognostic benefit as mastectomy. 

The patient having lumpectomy will usually be able to return to work and other activities within five days.