Lumpectomy – Breast Cancer Surgery: What You Need to Know

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What Is a Lumpectomy?

A lumpectomy—also called breast-conserving surgery or partial mastectomy—is a surgical procedure to remove a breast tumor along with a small margin of surrounding healthy tissue. The goal is to treat breast cancer while preserving as much of the breast as possible.

Why Is It Done?

A lumpectomy is commonly recommended for:

Early-stage breast cancer (Stages 0, I, or II)
Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS)
Non-cancerous breast abnormalities (such as suspicious lumps)
Patients who wish to preserve the appearance of the breast

Lumpectomy is often followed by radiation therapy to help reduce the risk of recurrence.

Before the Procedure

Initial Consultation: Where you meet with the surgeon who will be performing the surgery and discuss treatment options.
Pre-Op Tests: Some patients may require blood tests and an EKG before surgery. Please complete all blood tests and EKGs within 30 days of surgery, and no later than two weeks before, to allow time for any needed repeats.
Imaging: CT/CAT scans, ultrasounds, or an MRI may be performed to determine the best and most safe surgical approach.
Medications: Inform your doctor about all medications and supplements, especially blood thinners.
Smoking: Stop smoking before surgery to promote better healing. Some insurances may require this step in order to authorize surgery. Check with your healthcare provider if you have questions about this.
Prep the Night Before:
- Use the provided antibacterial soap to wash the area the night before and morning of the surgery. This excludes hemorrhoid procedures.
- Clean clothes and clean sheets gets you prepared for surgery.
Fasting: Do not eat or drink anything for at least 6–8 hours before surgery.
Transportation: It is required that you arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure.

It is very important that you properly prepare yourself for surgery as it allows for your doctor to perform the surgery safely and effectively. If you’re preparing for a colectomy, please visit the link below to view more detailed instructions on how to prepare for surgery.

Visit our Preparing for Surgery Page

What to Expect During Surgery

Performed under general anesthesia
Surgery typically lasts 1–2 hours
Only the tumor and a small rim of healthy tissue are removed
If necessary, sentinel lymph nodes may be removed through a separate or the same incision
Most patients go home the same day

After the Procedure

Hospital stay:
- May be 1–2 days for an uncomplicated mastectomy however some patients go home the same day.
- Longer hospital stay may be required if there were other complications during surgery.
At home recovery:
- Most patients resume light activity within a few days
- Most patients return to work or school around 1-2 weeks after surgery
- Depending on working conditions, lifting restrictions may be in place until fully healed at around 2-4 weeks.
- Full recovery typically takes 2–4 weeks

What to Expect:

Initial Pain, swelling, and bruising around the incision site
Most people can return to light activity within a few days
Full recovery usually occurs within 2–4 weeks
Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity until cleared by your surgeon
Your surgeon will provide instructions for wound care and follow-up

Contact your doctor if you experience:

Fever over 100.4°F (38°C)
Redness or drainage at the incision site
Persistent nausea or vomiting
Increasing pain or swelling

Radiation Therapy After Lumpectomy

Radiation therapy is commonly recommended after a lumpectomy to help destroy any remaining microscopic cancer cells in the breast and significantly reduce the risk of recurrence. Treatment is usually started several weeks after surgery, once the surgical site has healed adequately, and is delivered in a series of short outpatient sessions over approximately 3–6 weeks depending on the specific treatment plan. The radiation is carefully targeted to the breast area to minimize exposure to surrounding healthy tissue.

Risks and Possible Side Effects

Lumpectomy is generally safe, but possible risks include:

Infection or bleeding
Changes in breast shape or size
Scar tissue or firmness at the surgical site
Numbness or tingling
Fluid buildup (seroma)
Rarely, need for additional surgery if margins are not clear

Your surgical team will take precautions to minimize risks and will discuss these with you beforehand.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Will my breast look the same after surgery?
There may be changes in shape or size, especially if a large area is removed. Your surgeon will try to maintain the breast’s appearance.

Will I still need radiation therapy?
Yes, in most cases. Radiation helps reduce the risk of cancer coming back in the same breast.

How soon can I return to work?
Many people return to work within a few days to a week, depending on the type of job and how you’re feeling.

Will I need chemotherapy too?
Possibly. Chemotherapy decisions depend on the tumor type, stage, lymph node involvement, and other pathology results.

Can I have breast reconstruction after a lumpectomy?
Yes, in some cases. Options like oncoplastic surgery may help reshape the breast during or after lumpectomy. Ask your surgeon about what’s appropriate for you.

What if the margins aren’t clear after surgery?
If cancer cells are found near the edge of the removed tissue, you may need a second surgery to remove more tissue or consider a mastectomy.

Will I have a scar after surgery?
Yes, there will be a scar, but surgeons aim to place and close incisions to minimize its appearance over time.

Will lymph nodes be checked during surgery?
Often, a sentinel lymph node biopsy is performed to check if cancer has spread.

How long does the surgery take?
A lumpectomy usually takes about 1–2 hours, depending on the complexity and whether lymph nodes are evaluated.

Will I have pain after the procedure?
Mild to moderate discomfort is common and typically well-controlled with medication.

Will I need stitches removed?
Most stitches are dissolvable, but your surgeon will let you know if any need to be removed.

When can I shower after surgery?
You can usually shower within 24–48 hours, but follow your surgeon’s specific instructions.

Will I need to wear a special bra?
A supportive bra is often recommended to reduce swelling and provide comfort during healing.

What activity restrictions should I expect?
Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity for at least 2-3 weeks or as directed by your surgeon.

Support and Resources

Breast cancer navigators, support groups, and therapists can help you through each step of your treatment.
Physical therapy may help restore range of motion and reduce swelling if lymph nodes are removed.
Ask your care team about financial assistance, post-surgical bras, and local resources.

Need Support or Have Questions?

Your care team is here to help. If you’ve been diagnosed with a breast mass or are recovering from a lumpectomy, don’t hesitate to contact us with questions about your treatment or recovery.