Breast surgery is a common treatment option for breast cancer. It is essential to have a proper understanding of the surgery and what to expect before undergoing the procedure. Here, the breast cancer surgeon in Kolkata has discussed some of the key things that you should know before getting breast cancer surgery.
Types of Breast Cancer Surgery
There are several types of breast cancer surgery, including:
- Lumpectomy: A lumpectomy is a surgery that involves removing only the tumour and a small amount of surrounding tissue. This is also known as breast-conserving surgery.
- Mastectomy: A mastectomy is a surgery that involves removing the entire breast. There are different kinds of mastectomy, including a simple mastectomy, a modified radical mastectomy, and a radical mastectomy.
- Lymph node surgery: Lymph node surgery may be performed during a lumpectomy or mastectomy to remove lymph nodes from the armpit area. This helps to determine whether cancer has spread beyond the breast.
Reconstruction options
If a mastectomy is required, there are several reconstruction options available. This includes implant reconstruction, tissue reconstruction, and a combination of the two. It is important to discuss your options with your doctor and consider factors such as recovery time and scarring.
Recovery time
Recovery time after breast cancer surgery varies depending on the type of procedure and the individual. It is normal to experience discomfort, pain, and fatigue for several weeks after surgery. The best cancer doctor will provide guidance on how to manage these symptoms and when it is safe to resume normal activities.
Follow-up care
After surgery, follow-up care is critical to ensure the cancer is fully treated and to monitor for any potential recurrence. This may include regular check-ups with your doctor, imaging tests, and blood tests. It is important to keep up with all follow-up appointments and inform your doctor of any changes or concerns.
Breast cancer surgery can be a challenging experience, but with proper preparation, it can be less overwhelming. By discussing your treatment options with the best cancer doctor in Kolkata, preparing for recovery, considering reconstruction options, understanding potential complications, your journey to recovery will start quickly.