Breast Cancer Surgery (Resection): What You Need to Know

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What is a Breast Cancer Surgery (Resection)?

Surgery is often a key part of treatment for breast cancer. The goal of breast cancer resection is to remove cancerous tissue from the breast while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. The specific type of surgery recommended depends on the size, location, and stage of the cancer, as well as your personal preferences and overall health.

This page will help you understand your surgical options, what to expect before and after surgery, and how to access reliable support resources.

What Is Breast Cancer Resection?

Breast cancer resection refers to the surgical removal of a tumor and surrounding tissue from the breast. There are two main types:

1. Lumpectomy (Breast-Conserving Surgery)

Removes the tumor and a small margin of surrounding healthy tissue
Preserves most of the breast
Typically followed by radiation therapy
Suitable for early-stage cancers or smaller tumors

2. Mastectomy

Removes the entire breast, and in some cases, nearby lymph nodes or chest wall tissue
May be necessary for larger or more widespread cancers
May be followed by reconstruction surgery, if desired

Other Related Procedures

Sentinel lymph node biopsy: Removal of one or a few lymph nodes to check for cancer spread
Axillary lymph node dissection: Removal of more lymph nodes if cancer has spread
Breast reconstruction: Can be done at the time of mastectomy or later, using implants or your own tissue

Why Surgery Is Recommended

Surgical resection is a primary treatment for most types of breast cancer and may be used to:

Remove the tumor and reduce the risk of recurrence
Determine the stage and spread of the disease
Relieve symptoms in advanced cancer cases
Support other treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, or hormone therapy

Preparing for Surgery

Before your procedure, your care team will provide personalized instructions and may schedule:

Imaging tests (mammogram, ultrasound, MRI)
Bloodwork and medical clearance
Discussions about anesthesia and reconstruction options
Guidance on medications to pause or continue
Emotional support and counseling, if desired

You’ll also meet with a breast surgeon and possibly a plastic/reconstructive surgeon, depending on your treatment plan.

What to Expect During Surgery

You will receive general anesthesia so you’ll be asleep during the procedure.
Lumpectomy typically takes 1–2 hours; mastectomy may take 2–3 hours or longer if reconstruction is included.
If lymph nodes are removed, you may have a surgical drain temporarily placed to prevent fluid buildup.
You will wake up in a recovery area and be monitored for several hours.

After Surgery

Recovery:

Lumpectomy: Home the same day, recovery in 1–2 weeks
Mastectomy: May involve a short hospital stay, with recovery in 4–6 weeks
Reconstruction: May extend recovery depending on the procedure

Post-op Instructions:

Keep the incision site clean and dry
Limit heavy lifting and arm movement as directed
Follow your provider’s instructions on drain care, pain medications, and wound healing
Attend follow-up appointments for pathology results and next steps

Call your doctor if you experience:

Fever or chills
Redness, swelling, or discharge at the incision site
Severe pain or unusual swelling in the arm or chest
Difficulty breathing or chest pain

Risks and Complications

As with any surgery, risks include:

Infection
Bleeding or hematoma
Scarring or changes in breast appearance
Seroma (fluid buildup)
Arm swelling or lymphedema (especially after lymph node removal)
Numbness or nerve pain near the incision

Your surgical team will explain these risks and steps taken to minimize them.

Life After Breast Cancer Surgery

Many people resume normal activities and work within a few weeks, depending on the procedure. Support services are available for:

Physical recovery: Physical therapy, scar care, and post-surgical bras
Emotional recovery: Counseling, peer support, and mental health services
Long-term care: Follow-up visits, mammograms (if breast tissue remains), and further treatment planning

If you had a mastectomy, you may discuss reconstruction options or choose to use external prosthetics—whatever feels best for you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Will I need radiation or chemotherapy after surgery?
Possibly. Your care team will determine additional treatment based on tumor type, size, lymph node involvement, and other factors.

Can breast cancer come back after surgery?
Yes, recurrence is possible. Regular follow-up and ongoing care are key to monitoring your health.

Is breast reconstruction covered by insurance?
Yes, under U.S. law, insurance providers must cover breast reconstruction after mastectomy, including surgery on the opposite breast for symmetry.

Helpful Resources

We’re Here to Support You

Facing surgery for breast cancer is a significant step, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. If you have questions about your diagnosis, treatment options, or recovery, don’t hesitate to reach out to your care team.