Skip to main navigation
Skip to main content
Skip to footer
For
Medicare
For
Providers
For
Brokers
For
Employers
Español
For Individuals & Families:
For Individuals & Families
Medical
Dental
Other Supplemental
Explore coverage through work
How to Buy Health Insurance
Types of Dental Insurance
Open Enrollment vs. Special Enrollment
See all topics
Shop for Medicare plans
Member Guide
Find a Doctor
Log in to myCigna
Home
Knowledge Center
Wellness Library
Breast-Conserving Surgery (Lumpectomy) for Breast Cancer
Breast-Conserving Surgery (Lumpectomy) for Breast Cancer
Surgery Overview
Breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy) removes the cancer and just enough tissue to get all the cancer. The goal is to change how the breast looks as little as possible after the surgery while reducing the chances of the cancer coming back.
The size and location of tumors differs from one person to another, so the amount of tissue removed during surgery also differs.
Some of the lymph nodes under the arm may also be removed during breast-conserving surgery. This is done with a separate incision. If cancer is found in those lymph nodes, more lymph nodes may be removed.
Most people who have breast-conserving surgery also have radiation therapy. You may also have chemotherapy, hormone therapy, or both. In some cases, targeted therapy or immunotherapy may be options.
What To Expect
What To Expect
After your surgery, you will be taken to a recovery room. A nurse will be able to help with any nausea, pain, or anxiety you might have.
Most people go home the day of the surgery. Your doctor or nurse will give you instructions on pain control and caring for your incision. In most cases, you can take a shower on the day after surgery. If you like, you can wear a bra if it is comfortable. Some doctors recommend wearing a bra day and night for a few days for support.
Most people are able to get back to normal activity within a few days. But be sure to wait for your doctor to tell you when you can start with more strenuous physical activity. This will depend on the extent of the surgery and on other treatment you might be having.
If you are going to have radiation therapy, it won't start until your incision heals. This usually takes 4 to 6 weeks.
Why It Is Done
Why It Is Done
Breast-conserving surgery is done in early-stage breast cancer to remove the cancer and just enough tissue to make sure that all the cancer is removed.
Learn more
- Breast Cancer: Should I Have Breast-Conserving Surgery or a Mastectomy?
How Well It Works
How Well It Works
For early-stage breast cancer, breast-conserving surgery with radiation therapy has the same survival rate as mastectomy.footnote 1
Risks
Risks
Complications of breast-conserving surgery are unusual. But they may include infection, bleeding, poor wound healing, or a reaction to the anesthesia used in surgery. Blood or clear fluid may also collect in the wound and need to be drained. You may have breast pain and feelings of pulling, pinching, tingling, or numbness.
References
References
Citations
- Wang W (2013). Radiotherapy in the management of early breast cancer. Journal of Medical Radiation Sciences, 60(1): 40–46. DOI: 10.1002/jmrs.1. Accessed November 9, 2023.
Current as of: October 25, 2024
Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.
To learn more about Ignite Healthwise, LLC, visit webmdignite.com.
© 2024-2025 Ignite Healthwise, LLC.
<cipublic-spinner variant="large"><span>Loading…</span></cipublic-spinner>
