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A doctor talks to a patient about a partial mastectomy

A partial mastectomy involves the surgical removal of cancerous breast tissue along with a rim of surrounding healthy tissue that will be used for further testing. Similar to a lumpectomy but generally more extensive, this procedure allows for the preservation of the remaining noncancerous breast tissue and can sometimes help maintain the appearance of the breast. In most cases, radiation therapy is advised following a partial mastectomy to attempt to destroy any residual cancer cells.

Oftentimes, a patient who is diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer will have several choices regarding the type of treatment to pursue. For instance, a lumpectomy, partial mastectomy and complete mastectomy may all be appropriate treatment options. However, each approach has distinct advantages and disadvantages. At Moffitt Cancer Center, we understand that a patient’s choices regarding breast cancer treatment are often difficult and influenced by many personal factors. Our compassionate, multispecialty team is available to provide all of the information and support a patient needs to make the best possible decisions for her unique situation.

If a patient opts to undergo a partial mastectomy, the amount of breast tissue removed will depend on the size and location of the tumor. Many patients who choose this type of procedure have:

  • Early-stage breast cancer
  • A single breast tumor that measures less than 5 centimeters in diameter
  • A sufficient amount of healthy breast tissue to support the shape of the breast after the cancerous tissue is removed
  • A course of follow-up radiation therapy

A partial mastectomy is generally not recommended for patients who have had radiation treatment to the affected breast or are currently pregnant.

As the surgical management of breast cancer continues to evolve, Moffitt remains positioned firmly at the forefront of the medical community by offering the very latest techniques, including breast-conserving strategies like partial mastectomy, as well as skin- and nipple-sparing approaches. Our research initiatives are lauded by the National Cancer Institute, which has named Moffitt a Comprehensive Cancer Center, and we are the only cancer center based in Florida to have received this prestigious recognition.

Contact Moffitt to learn more about partial mastectomy and other breast cancer surgery techniques. No referrals are required; call 1-888-663-3488 or complete a new patient registration form online.

 

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