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There are different types of breast surgery, and your surgeon will explain your options to you.  There are many factors to consider for the type of surgery you will have. This includes the type and the size of the tumour, your general health and your preferences.

Tumour size

Generally, the larger the tumour, the more tissue that needs to be removed. This can mean a greater impact of the surgery on your body image and wellbeing.

Larger tumours are more likely to need more extensive surgery to remove them (mastectomy), or more tissue rearrangement at surgery to compensate for any defect (oncoplastic surgery).

Smaller tumours may be removed with less extensive or complex surgery (lumpectomy or breast conserving surgery).

Mastectomy or larger lumpectomy

More extensive or complex surgery involves the removal of more tissue and/or the entire breast and/or may lead to the need for further reconstruction. This in turn might lead to a longer recovery time.

This can affect your ability to get back to a normal life.

Breast-conserving surgery (‘lumpectomy’)   

The main advantage of avoiding a mastectomy (by shrinking the tumour so a lumpectomy is possible) or having a smaller lumpectomy is that it can preserve more of the appearance and sensation of your natural breast.

It is also less extensive, so you may have less scarring and an easier recovery.

Many people are recommended radiotherapy after a lumpectomy.