If you’ve been diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer or a suspicious lump in the breast, your doctor may recommend a lumpectomy. This surgery removes the breast cancer tumor while preserving the rest of the breast.
A lumpectomy is one of the most common forms of breast cancer surgery. It’s often chosen for its ability to effectively treat the cancer while maintaining the natural shape and appearance of the breast.
“A breast lumpectomy isn’t just a medical procedure—it’s a step forward,” encourages Dr. Ann Chuang, a board-certified breast surgeon with Premier Surgical Network. “Our goal is to remove the cancer and give patients the best possible outcome, both physically and emotionally.”
Before the Lumpectomy – How to Prepare for Breast Cancer Surgery
Your preparation for breast cancer surgery will start with a series of pre-operative appointments to assess your overall health and ensure you're ready for the procedure. You may undergo imaging, bloodwork, and an evaluation of your surgical plan. Your doctor will also explain what to expect and answer any questions.
Before surgery, you’ll receive detailed instructions about medications, food and drink restrictions, and when to arrive for your procedure. It’s also essential to arrange a ride home and prepare your recovery space in advance with comfortable clothing and easy access to essentials, such as a bathroom.
If you’re not sure what to ask your surgeon, some helpful questions include:
- Does breast tissue grow back after lumpectomy?
- How long should I wear a bra after a lumpectomy?
- How much tissue will be removed?
- What are the risks of a lumpectomy?
- Will I need radiation after surgery?
- Will there be a visible scar?
“We always encourage patients to bring their questions to us, whether big or small,” says Dr. Chuang. “The more informed and supported you feel going into surgery, the smoother your recovery will be.”
During the Procedure – What Happens in the OR
A lumpectomy surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia and takes one to two hours. During the procedure, your surgeon will make a small incision and carefully remove the tumor and a small amount of surrounding healthy tissue.
In some cases, one or more lymph nodes may also be removed for biopsy, especially if your doctor suspects the cancer has spread. The surgeon then reshapes the remaining breast tissue to maintain its natural appearance, and the incision is closed with stitches.
Your surgical team will monitor you closely throughout the procedure to ensure your comfort and safety. The primary focus during a lumpectomy is removing the cancer while preserving the look and feel of the breast as much as possible.
After the Surgery – Recovery and Follow-Up
Following the procedure, you’ll spend a short time in the recovery room before being discharged to go home the same day. During this time, it's normal to experience some soreness, swelling, or bruising around the surgical site. Over-the-counter or prescribed pain medication can help manage discomfort in the early recovery days.
At home, you’ll need to limit strenuous activities for a week or two and avoid heavy lifting. Your surgeon will recommend wearing a supportive, non-underwire bra for the first several days to help with swelling and support healing.
During your follow-up appointment, your surgeon will review your pathology results. Depending on those results, your care team may recommend additional treatments such as radiation therapy. But the good news is that most patients can return to their usual routines within one to two weeks, although full healing may take longer.
After surgery, it’s important to watch for signs of infection, excessive swelling, or drainage from the incision, and contact your healthcare provider if you experience anything unusual. Your team is there to guide you through each step of recovery.
Compassionate Breast Surgery Care Starts Here
A lumpectomy surgery is a safe and effective option for those with early-stage breast cancer, and it’s a procedure our experienced surgeons perform often. At Premier Surgical Network, we combine advanced surgical techniques with the compassion and clarity patients need to feel confident in their care.
“Our patients are never alone in this process,” Dr. Chuang shares. “From diagnosis to recovery, we walk with them, answering questions, easing fears, and providing care they can trust.”
If you’ve recently been diagnosed or are exploring treatment options, contact Premier Surgical Network to schedule a consultation. We’ll help you understand your options, make informed decisions, and move forward with the support of a compassionate, experienced surgical team.
